You know you need help, but you’re not quite sure… Is it time to hire a VA (Virtual Assistant), or do you need the expertise of an OBM (Online Business Manager)?

Let’s break it down so you can make the right decision for your business.

The Key Differences: VA vs. OBM

1. Doing vs. Managing

A VA is a doer - they focus on specific tasks based on their area of expertise, whether that’s admin, tech, customer support, or marketing. They execute what’s assigned to them efficiently.

An OBM is a manager - they oversee the big picture, ensuring that the right tasks are done by the right people, in the right way, at the right time. They focus on systems, structure, and strategy to keep the business running smoothly.

2. Responsibility

A VA is responsible for completing their own tasks on time.

An OBM is responsible for the progress of the entire team—ensuring everyone is aligned, deadlines are met, and momentum is being maintained towards your business goals.

3. Planning

A VA plans their workload to complete assigned tasks.

An OBM plans for the entire business, mapping out projects, launches, and operations so that things run proactively—not reactively. No more last-minute scrambles or constant firefighting.

4. Team Management

A VA focuses on their individual responsibilities and checks in with the team when needed.

An OBM is the key point of contact for your entire team, ensuring that everyone knows their role, stays on track, and has the resources they need to perform at their best.

So, do you need a VA or an OBM?

Here’s 3 questions to ask yourself to help you to decide…

📝 What stage is your business at?

If you’re making consistent £15k+ months, have big plans for growth, and know you can’t scale alone, an OBM is what you need. They’ll help you create the systems, team, and structure to move you from busy business owner to true CEO.

📝 Who is managing the team right now?

Are you still the one checking in on everyone, following up, and making sure things get done? Managing the day-to-day is a huge drain on your time and energy - energy that should be spent growing your business, not chasing deadlines. An OBM takes this off your plate.

📝 Are you the biggest bottleneck?

In the early days, hustle got you here. But as you scale past six figures, it actually holds you back. If you’re the one making all the decisions, approving everything, and answering every question, you’ve become the bottleneck. An OBM helps streamline and delegate, so the business runs smoothly without you in the weeds.

If it’s time to step into your CEO role...

You know you've reached the point where running your business like a one-woman show is no longer effective. It's when the DIY approach that once worked starts stalling your growth.

If you’re ready to scale with ease - without getting lost in the day-to-day - let’s talk. An OBM is your next step.

Book a discovery call here