3 Ways To Set Yourself Up For Success When Onboarding an OBM
Perhaps one of the most difficult aspects of onboarding an employee or contractor into your business is feeling like you’re handing a stranger everything you’ve worked so hard to build.
Both logistically and emotionally, you may feel overwhelmed with the process of screening and selecting the right Online Business Manager for your goals on top of all the work you’re already putting in.
After all, the whole point of hiring an OBM is to take things off your plate. Not pile more on it!
A lot can go wrong when you hire a new team member
The first step in onboarding an OBM (or any team member, for that matter) starts before you hire her: It’s important for you to hone in on exactly what you’re hoping to get out of this relationship so you can find the best possible fit from the beginning.
Are you looking for someone to support you as you launch new products or services? Or someone with marketing experience to help you implement a strategy?
Once you’ve clarified your business needs and found the right OBM, you’re already on the right path to growth.
So, how do you ensure a successful long term collaboration with your OBM?
A successful business relationship starts with clear communication
Make a detailed onboarding package
A successful onboarding package is the voice of your brand. It’s the first interaction any employer or contractor will have with your company.
Documents like your brand guidelines, an employee handbook, specific software training, the credentials and accounts your OBM will need to successfully do her work, and any other documents she may need from day one should be included in your onboarding package.
It’s worth noting that an Online Business Manager is generally a contractor and not an employee. But these are documents that will support her in taking ownership of her work with you.
If you haven’t already, I’d like to invite you to document your business processes, make templates, and keep Standard Operating Procedures of everything you can’t automate. And even clear instructions for everything you can automate.
A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is a fantastic tool to have on hand when bringing in new people to your organization because you can easily hand it off to your new team member for her to work with.
Looking for ideas for your SOPs? Check these Free Standard Operating Procedures Templates
Communicate clearly and frequently
When you’ve had your nose buried in your business for a long time, it’s easy to miss things that may be obvious to you, but not for “outsiders.” And you may fall into a habit of assuming the other person’s thoughts, availability, difficulties, and more.
But assumptions and delays are a direct path to frustration.
Especially when you’re still building that rapport at the beginning of the relationship, make the effort to communicate clearly and to turn this into a consistent habit. When your OBM feels confident and comfortable reaching out to you, things will flow more smoothly and you will be able to tackle challenges as a team.
Another effective way to prevent things from falling off track is to document your communication in writing. Goals, priorities, deadlines, scope, and deliverables are some of the elements you may want to aim for.
You also want to take note of the doubts, questions, or issues your new OBM is facing, as these will be potential roadblocks for future hires as well. And it’s worthwhile to do a regular check-in so she has the opportunity to voice any concerns or feedback she may have, and vice-versa.
Clear communication is key to ensuring your and your OBM’s success and satisfaction as you work together.
Set SMART goals with your OBM
Now get to it! Every new project should start with SMART goals. You and your Online Business Manager can develop a habit from day one to keep each other accountable by defining and sharing goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely.
Since you already know what you and your OBM have defined as her role, these goals will act as a clear path to track your progress and success.
Keeping these goals in mind (and on paper!) will help you evaluate long term growth and make sure everything is where it should be.
Remember, accountability goes both ways. Just like you can ask her to hold her end of the deal, she can (and I’d encourage her to) push you forward on your end. Successful collaboration means that you and your OBM are equal partners and support each other to be the best you and your business can be. It’s this two-way street that will take you closer to your grand business goals.
Unsure of where to start when setting business goals? Listen to this podcast by Being Boss: How to Set Business Goals with Paul Jarvis
Your OBM is here to support your business growth
The most effective way to go about onboarding is to take the guesswork out of the process. It may feel daunting to start yet another project besides client work and daily operations. Especially since you’re aware that you need help already.
But devoting this extra time in the early stages to templates, documentation, and clear procedures will help you save time and headaches in the long run.
By giving yourself and your business clear direction, you’re building a replicable system you can apply over and over as your business grows instead of flying by the seat of your pants every time.
And most importantly, you give your new business manager the tools she needs to help you succeed.
