Get a step up and become a online business manager
As part of the blog tour I am conducting for Tina Forsyth, author of Becoming an Online Business Manager (Playing a Bigger Game with your Clients), I wanted the opportunity to interview her myself.
When I read Tina’s book, the compilation of information was well organized and concise to help those whom are virtual assistants understand if they are ready to take on the role of Online Business Manager. It also allows those looking for an online business manager know what to ask for when looking for this team member of their business.
Here are a few things I really enjoyed about the book:
In the first chapter, Tina’s offers a guide to illustrate if you could be ready (or not ready yet) to become an online business manager.
In the second chapter, she outlines the role of a online business manager. I liked this chapter because she puts a “sample” description for other business owners to recruit a online business manager.
The 3rd chapter is about how to get it started; knowing that it starts with knowing that being an online business manager is about treating your client’s business as your own and to have a strong understanding of your client’s business model—> love this!
Chapter 4 is about setting yourself apart and knowing how to express your uniqueness to others. I liked the statement at the beginning of this chapter.
It’s not always about what you do, but how you do it.
In Chapter 5 it can be related to a “gift bag”. Tina has filled this chapter with ideas on how to become more effective for virtual assistants to handle different situations with varying needs of clients.
Chapter 6 is about creating systems in your business and your client’s business as to make process improvements.
In Chapter 7, Tina discusses how a online business manager can build a team (under their leadership) to increasingly help with productivity in the clients’ business.
Chapter 8 is about looking at the numbers—all of them. Very important when you are in business. Too many times (and I have done this too) business owners get excited about products or services and they may start jumping, purchasing things instead of being more strategic about those decisions.
I really enjoyed Chapter 9 because it talks about compensation for virtual assistants. This chapter is about being aware of the worth of a virtual assistant (from beginners to experienced). It also goes more into the role of becoming a online business manager because you become more into the managerial role (overseeing a team of VA’s) for your client.
Chapter 10 is about the “industry” of being on online business manager and more about her story. I liked that she reiterates that it took her a couple of years to work up to making a high income (not that it was ever bad) and it wasn’t just overnight to larger income numbers.
In Chapter 11 Tina talks about creating a successful match client for you as an OBM.
Then in Chapter 12, she discusses about how to get started with a OBM client, and to possible do a “get to know you” project first. This ensures you are a good match for more long term relationship.
In the last chapter, Tina explains about being VERY CLEAR on what you want. She gives you 4 important questions for you to answer for yourself to get things started on the “road” to becoming an OBM.
I really enjoyed reading this book. As a former (and still occasional) virtual assistant, this book helped me realize quite a few things about the va industry. But it also allowed me to know how to express how to recruit my own online business manager.
Tina has a great new community for OBM’s called OBM Connects.
You will have to pick up a copy for yourself to receive some AWESOME other goodies she offers in the book. 25% off coupon for Pink Spoon Marketing book.
