Leadership is a bit of a loaded word. Often when we talk about leadership, we are talking about the person every one ‘sees’. Because of that, Online Business Managers do not alwaysassociate ourselves with being leaders. After all, we are the behind-the-scene folks and we like it that way… the wind beneath the wing of a brilliant leader, if I may 😉
I would like to reframe leadership as it pertains to the OBM. There are 3 characteristics of a leader:
- Vision – a leader needs to be able to see or commit to a vision to the level of committing to see it produced or materialized.
- Influence – it requires influence to ensure you have the authority to compel others for fulfill their roles in serving the vision. If you cannot influence, you cannot lead.
- Servanthood – a true leader has a servant’s heart toward those he/she leads; the desire to ensure they have everything they need to be successful.
How do these 3 characteristics pertain to being an OBM?
Essentially as the OBM, it is our role to ensure the vision is being pressed forward. Even if we do not cast the vision over all, we often cast the short-term or project vision and ensuring it stays in alignment with the bigger long term vision. We see the endgame and arrange all the parts to ensure they are moving in the direction of that desired outcome. I consider the OBM to be the container of the vision, entrusted with the privileged of ensuring everything is working toward it’s outcome.
To be honest, I am not great at setting the big picture or vision. It is not my strength, but once I have that vision in mind, I am clear on the tasks and the execution it takes to produce it. That is the role of the OBM.
Influence is a funny thing. We often think only the folks who are on stage or have their name in lights are the ones with influence. However, influence is most powerful on a personal level. Your ability to empower your team and the contractors you work with to ensure the project is being done correctly is the power of influence at work. We have influence in all areas of our lives, but we may not always take ownership of our ability to lead those we influence. As OBM’s, we need to make this a priority and develop this skillset even greater, to ensure we are becoming strong centers of influence.
Lastly, and most importantly as an OBM, embracing a servant’s heart will always serve you. Ultimately we are here to serve the client, the business, the vision AND the team. As a leader of your team, your first priority should be to serve them at the highest level, to ensure they have everything they need to be successful. When you shift your mindset to stand behind them and encourage them toward the best version of themselves, you ensure they get what they need to be successful in the role. You begin to truly serve them as the leader that you are!
If you are an OBM, you are a leader! Lead well, with purpose and integrity my friend 😉
Need to find out more about how to become an OBM? Check out the OBM Starter Kit.. lots of goodies here: http://www.OnlineBusinessManager.com