When looking to grow and streamline your business, you often come across two professionals: the Online Business Manager (OBM) and the Business Coach. While both are helping small businesses grow, their roles, focus areas, and working methods are different. Understanding these differences will help you decide which professional is best suited to your needs.
The Role of an Online Business Manager (OBM)
An OBM is a hands-on professional who manages the day-to-day operations of your business. They focus on the how of your business, taking on the responsibility of ensuring systems, projects, and teams are working efficiently and effectively. OBMs implement your vision, acting as your operational partner and leader for your team.
Typical OBM Responsibilities:
- Overseeing the execution of business projects, such as launches or rebranding
- Streamlining operations by implementing tools and workflows
- Managing team members to ensure accountability and performance
- Monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure business success
- Transferring high-level strategies into actionable tasks
In short, OBMs are deeply embedded in the daily workings of your business, ensuring that the operations side runs smoothly so you can focus on growth and innovation.
The Role of a Business Coach
A Business Coach, on the other hand, is a strategic guide who helps you grow as a business owner and leader. They focus on the why and what of your business, helping you clarify your goals, develop strategies, and overcome personal or professional obstacles. Coaches are not involved in executing tasks but instead work with you to refine your mindset, leadership skills, and vision.
Typical Business Coach Contributions:
- Identifying and setting long-term goals and strategies
- Providing guidance on leadership development
- Offering insights to improve decision-making and problem-solving skills
- Helping overcome limiting beliefs or mental blocks
- Offering accountability to help you stay aligned with your goals
In essence, Business Coaches focus on personal and professional growth, helping you lead your business more effectively and confidently.
Key Differences Between an OBM and a Business Coach
Scope of Work:
- OBMs handle the operational side, ensuring your business functions smoothly day-to-day. For example, an OBM might oversee the rollout of a new product launch, ensuring all the technical, marketing, and team elements are in place.
- Business Coaches focus on strategy and leadership development. For instance, a coach might help you define the long-term vision for your business or develop a plan to pivot to a new market.
Level of Involvement:
- OBMs work closely with your team, systems, and processes. They’re in the trenches, executing and managing.
- Coaches maintain a high-level perspective, offering guidance, feedback, and accountability but leaving the implementation to you and your team.
Skill Set:
- OBMs excel in operations management, project coordination, and team leadership.
- Business Coaches are experts in strategic thinking, leadership development, and personal growth techniques.
Impact:
- OBMs ensure your business runs like a well-oiled machine, freeing you from operational headaches.
- Business Coaches empower you to think bigger, act strategically, and lead with confidence.
Which Do You Need?
If your business is struggling with operational inefficiencies, missed deadlines, or team misalignment, an OBM can step in to take control and bring order to the chaos. However, if you’re feeling stuck, uncertain about your next steps, or in need of a strategic sounding board, a Business Coach might be the partner you need.
In some cases, you may benefit from both professionals. For example, a Business Coach could help you develop a growth strategy, while an OBM could execute the operational plan to achieve that strategy.
Final Thoughts
OBMs and Business Coaches bring tremendous value to small business owners, but their roles are distinct. An OBM is your operational powerhouse, ensuring the behind-the-scenes work is efficient and effective. A Business Coach, meanwhile, is your strategic partner, helping you grow as a leader and define the future of your business.
By understanding the unique contributions of each, you can make an informed decision and build the support system your business needs to grow and scale.