11 Key Qualities to Look for When Hiring an Online Business Manager (OBM)

Ever feel like there just aren't enough hours in the day? You're pouring your heart and soul into your business, yet the endless to-do list only seems to grow. Managing projects, scheduling, and administrative duties can sap the creative energy from your passion project. Perhaps you've considered bringing on an Online Business Manager (OBM) but are uncertain about what exactly they do and whether they are the right fit for your business.

As entrepreneurs, the challenge isn't just about managing time, it's about managing bandwidth. An OBM can be a game-changer in this arena, taking over the operational heavy lifting so you can reclaim your creative spark and focus on strategic growth. In this blog post, we’ve distilled the 11 key qualities you should look for in an OBM, ensuring you partner with someone who not only manages efficiently but also aligns closely with your vision and business culture.

Finding the Right Fit

An Online Business Manager acts as a valuable extension of your entrepreneurial team, significantly enhancing your ability to focus on growth while they handle the operational complexities.

Choosing the right OBM means finding someone whose skills align perfectly with your business needs. It's crucial to distinguish the roles and realise that an OBM is not a Virtual Assistant; they are strategists who manage aspects of your business operations at a higher level.

Now, let's delve into the specific qualities that you should look for to find the best fit for your business.

The 11 qualities to look for when hiring an OBM

1. They bring strong project management skills to the table

OBMs are equipped with advanced project management skills which allow them to oversee multiple projects efficiently.

Example: Imagine an OBM coordinating a product launch, aligning all marketing, sales, and distribution teams to ensure a synchronized rollout. This kind of orchestration requires an ability to see the big picture and manage the minutiae simultaneously.

2. They possess an excellent customer service mentality

An exceptional OBM understands that every client interaction shapes your business reputation. They work tirelessly to optimise customer touchpoints, ensuring each interaction is not just a transaction, but a relationship-building moment.

Example: An OBM might streamline client onboarding processes to make them smoother and more welcoming, which enhances client satisfaction and retention.

3. They speak your industry language

It's crucial that an OBM brings deep industry knowledge, allowing them to anticipate market trends and steer your business through competitive landscapes. They not only understand the ins and outs of your industry but also apply this knowledge to drive strategic decisions.

Example: For a tech startup, an OBM versed in agile methodologies and tech trends can significantly improve project delivery times and innovation cycles.

4. They communicate clearly & collaborate well

Effective OBMs are excellent communicators, able to convey ideas clearly and collaborate across teams. They ensure information flows freely, breaking down silos and fostering a culture of transparency and cooperation.

Example: An OBM might facilitate a monthly meeting where strategic updates are shared, ensuring all team members are aligned with the company’s goals.

5. They think like you, but act strategically

OBMs are strategic visionaries who not only understand your long-term goals but are adept at breaking these down into actionable and measurable steps. They align day-to-day operations with your broader business objectives.

Example: Consider an OBM developing a cost-effective strategy by outsourcing non-core activities, allowing the business to allocate more resources towards Research & Development .

6. They're flexible

In the dynamic business world, an OBM's ability to adapt and respond to changes can determine your company's resilience. They are quick to adjust strategies and processes in response to external pressures or opportunities.

Example: During a sudden market shift, an OBM might quickly pivot business strategies to capitalise on new opportunities or mitigate risks.

7. They're growth hackers, not just adapters

Innovation is key in today's market, and a skilled OBM is always on the lookout for ways to innovate processes, products, or services. They bring a creative perspective that can open up new avenues for business growth and efficiency.

Example: An OBM might implement cutting-edge technology to automate mundane tasks, boosting productivity and allowing creative minds more freedom to explore new ideas.

8. They anticipate needs & take initiative

OBMs take initiative, often solving problems before they escalate. By anticipating potential issues and implementing solutions in advance, they keep the business running smoothly.

Example: By analysing performance data, an OBM may identify a drop in productivity and proactively introduce new software tools to aid the team’s efficiency.

9. They use data to make informed decisions

OBMs are analytical thinkers who use data to guide every decision. They collect, analyse, and interpret data to make informed decisions that boost efficiency and effectiveness.

Example: An OBM could use analytics to refine marketing strategies, increasing ROI through targeted advertising based on customer behavior patterns.

10. They solve problems efficiently

When challenges arise, an OBM is equipped to handle them efficiently and effectively, ensuring minimal impact on business operations. They think on their feet and offer solutions that not only fix issues but also improve processes.

Example: If a product defect is causing customer complaints, an OBM could work swiftly with the product team to fix the issue and communicate with affected customers to maintain trust.

11. They share your passion & values

It's essential that an OBM not only matches your technical needs but also resonates with your personal values and passions. This alignment goes beyond professional compatibility, fostering a deeper, more personal connection that can greatly enhance collaborative success.

Example: If family is your top priority, finding an OBM who also values work-life balance can lead to more empathetic scheduling and mutual respect for time off. This shared understanding and interest can turn a professional relationship into a powerhouse of shared enthusiasm and innovative ideas, driving your business forward with a shared vision.

Reflect on these qualities and consider what your ideal OBM would bring to the table. Each of these qualities not only defines a skilled OBM but also highlights how integral they are to the fabric of a thriving business.

When considering hiring an OBM, look for these qualities to ensure they can not only manage your operations but also drive your business forward. Engaging an OBM with these skills can transform the way your business operates, paving the way for enhanced growth and success.

Ready to take the next step? If you think hiring an OBM is right for your business, feel free to reach out. We're here to help you find the perfect match to elevate your business.