Many people come to me unsure if I’m the right person to support them. They know it’s time to get help, but the “how” and “what exactly” are often much less clear.

I wrote an article a while back about delegation — how to know if it’s the right time for you, and the key things you need to keep in mind before diving in. You can read it here.

Today, I want to clarify the scope of two roles that are too often confused: the right hand (also called Online Business Manager – OBM, Executive Assistant, or even Chief of Staff in some organizations) and the Virtual Assistant (VA).

The Virtual Assistant: Administrative and Technical Support

VAs work remotely — hence the “virtual” — and provide administrative, technical, or secretarial support to the people they assist.

Typical tasks a VA might handle include:

• Calendar management and scheduling
• Drafting emails and letters
• Customer support
• Invoicing and bookkeeping
• Social media management
• Podcast editing
• Video editing
• Research and information gathering

VAs are often “Swiss army knives” — they take over tasks outside your zone of genius, especially the time-consuming ones. They apply the strategy and instructions you give them, and they still need some level of guidance in order to be truly effective.

Most VAs bill by the hour, usually between €35 and €50. Some also offer packages — for example, for social media management or editing services.

The Right Hand / OBM: A Strategic Ally

The right hand is the entrepreneur’s second brain. Their role is far more strategic. They’re not there to just “mindlessly implement” strategies — they co-design them with you, then make sure execution is optimized.

Typical tasks for an OBM include:

• Developing and implementing business strategy
• Overseeing operations and team management
• Supervising projects and key initiatives
• Data analysis and reporting
• Representing the company to partners and clients

OBMs usually have a profile closer to that of a project manager, with more experience coordinating complex missions. While they can step in with operational support, it’s usually on a one-off basis.

If you’re working with several freelancers on a project, for example, the OBM can coordinate everyone involved.

For an OBM, expect rates between €80 and €150 per hour. Some will also bill per project or create a custom quote depending on your needs.

Summary

A Virtual Assistant is ideal for outsourcing daily or occasional tasks.
A Right Hand / OBM is a true strategic partner who actively contributes to your company’s growth.

Ultimately, choosing the right profile for your business depends on your specific needs and goals. Take the time to identify your expectations clearly and define your selection criteria. That’s how you’ll find the collaborator who will help you take your business to the next level.