Have you ever wondered what Online Business Managers actually make?

It’s one of the questions I’m asked most often… and one of the topics our industry doesn’t talk about nearly enough.

So, in this episode of The OBM Show, I’m pulling back the curtain on the real earning potential of an Online Business Manager. I’m sharing actual hourly rates, monthly retainers, what influences those numbers, and why two people with similar skills can end up with very different incomes.

But this episode isn’t just about the numbers.

It’s about understanding why some OBMs are able to command significantly higher rates than others,and why earning more isn’t about working longer hours. It’s about stepping into a strategic leadership role, positioning yourself with confidence, and charging for the value you bring to a business.

Whether you’re a Virtual Assistant wondering if the OBM path is worth it, someone considering leaving corporate, or you’re already working as an OBM and curious whether your rates are where they should be, I think this conversation will give you a realistic picture of what’s possible.

🎥 Prefer video? Watch the full episode here on YouTube:

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

This episode is especially relevant for Virtual Assistants, online service providers, project managers, operations professionals, and anyone considering becoming an Online Business Manager.

You’ll learn:

👉 what Online Business Managers are actually earning in 2026

👉 the difference between VA rates and OBM rates

👉 why retainers often create more sustainable income than hourly billing

👉 the biggest factors that influence an OBM’s earning potential

👉 why positioning yourself as a strategic partner changes everything

👉 how many experienced VAs are already doing OBM-level work without realizing it

👉 what a realistic income trajectory can look like during your first few years as an OBM

Most importantly, I hope this episode helps you see that increasing your income isn’t simply about working harder, it’s about recognizing the value you already bring and positioning yourself accordingly.

The Next Step

If this article has you thinking, “Maybe becoming an Online Business Manager is something I should seriously explore,” I’d love to invite you to join us for OBM Week.

Over three free, live training sessions, we’ll cover everything you need to know about becoming an Online Business Manager. From what the role actually looks like day-to-day, to finding clients, pricing your services, and building a business that’s designed for long-term success.

Whether you’re simply curious or seriously considering making the transition, OBM Week is the perfect place to start.

For business owners reading this and thinking, I need an OBM running the operations behind my business…

You can explore our Directory of Accredited OBMs or be matched directly with the right partner through OBM School’s matchmaking process.

It’s time to SCALE strategically and sustainably and step back from the day-to-day so you can focus solely on the parts of the business that need your attention.