Get Ready for a Professional Upgrade
Get Ready for a Professional Upgrade
Build a flexible career helping small businesses thrive
Build a Flexible Career Helping Small
Businesses
Thrive
Gain the skills, confidence, and certification needed to excel in today’s fast-paced, digital-first world. As a Certified Online Business Manager® (Certified OBM®), you’ll be at the forefront of helping businesses streamline operations, manage teams, and ensure sustainable growth.
Gain the skills, confidence, and certification needed to excel in today’s fast-paced, digital-first world. As a Certified Online Business Manager® (Certified OBM®), you’ll be at the forefront of helping businesses streamline operations, manage teams, and ensure sustainable growth.
Embracing the future of business
Embracing the future of business
This shift affects nearly every industry. Those that embrace change will find new opportunities, while those that don’t will face growing challenges.
The solution to modern challenges
The solution to modern challenges
Is this role right for you?
Is this path right for you?
The Official Certified OBM® Training Program
The Official Certified OBM® Training Program
Gain the skills, confidence, and certification needed to excel in today’s fast-paced, digital-first world.
Gain the skills, confidence, and certification needed to excel in today’s fast-paced, digital-first world.
Becoming a Certified OBM® equips you with in-demand skills that apply across a wide range of industries. Our comprehensive training goes beyond theory, allowing you to practice your skills through hands-on projects, so you’re fully prepared for the challenges of the OBM role from day one.
With personalized mentorship and practical support, you'll gain the confidence and guidance needed to succeed. Our program also provides focused preparation for Certification Week with the International Association of Online Business Managers (IAOBM)—the most trusted credential for OBMs. Start your journey today, and become the go-to OBM businesses rely on.
Becoming a Certified OBM® equips you with in-demand skills that apply across a wide range of industries. Our comprehensive training goes beyond theory, allowing you to practice your skills through hands-on projects, so you’re fully prepared for the challenges of the OBM role from day one.
With personalized mentorship and practical support, you'll gain the confidence and guidance needed to succeed. Our program also provides focused preparation for Certification Week with the International Association of Online Business Managers (IAOBM)—the most trusted credential for OBMs. Start your journey today, and become the go-to OBM businesses rely on.
Foundations of OBM Excellence
The Four Pillars of OBM Success
The Four Pillars of OBM Success
Master these four pillars to set yourself apart as an expert OBM, delivering real, measurable results for your clients.
Master these four pillars to set yourself apart as an expert OBM, delivering real, measurable results for your clients.
Planning
Translate big-picture goals into actionable plans.
People
Lead and manage teams to ensure alignment and productivity.
Processes
Create scalable, automated systems that drive efficiency and support growth.
Progress
Track business performance and adjust strategies to meet goals.
Program Benefits
Program Benefits
Our program equips you with the skills, tools, and support you need to thrive as an Online Business Manager (OBM). With a blend of self-paced learning, hands-on projects, and personalized mentorship, you’ll gain the confidence and expertise to succeed in the fast-paced world of business management.
Our program equips you with the skills, tools, and support you need to thrive as an Online Business Manager (OBM). With a blend of self-paced learning, hands-on projects, and personalized mentorship, you’ll gain the confidence and expertise to succeed in the fast-paced world of business management.
FLEXIBLE, SUPPORTED LEARNING
Master modern business management skills at your own pace with a personalized plan. Enjoy the balance of flexibility and support with regular check-ins, 1:1 guidance, and optional facilitated calls to connect with instructors and peers for added insights.
LEARN BY DOING, WITH EXPERT FEEDBACK
Develop practical skills through client-simulated projects, covering everything from strategy to cutting-edge tools and AI applications. This hands-on experience, paired with 1:1 instructor feedback, builds your expertise and your confidence in a supportive, low-pressure environment.
ACCELERATE YOUR GROWTH WITH LIVE SESSIONS
Join twice-weekly live sessions with flexible day and evening options. Engage in real-time discussions, ask questions, and get instant feedback from instructors and peers on essential skills like client acquisition, leadership, and business strategy.
PERSONALIZED MENTORSHIP FOR FOCUSED GROWTH
No matter where you are in your journey—whether building new skills or scaling your business—1:1 mentorship provides the guidance you need. Bring your challenges, gain expert insights, and move forward with confidence.
STREAMLINE YOUR WORK WITH READY-MADE TOOLS
Save time and simplify your workflow with ready-to-use tools, templates, and processes designed to support your business and client projects. These trusted resources free you to focus on growth and results—without the hassle of building systems from scratch.
ELEVATE YOUR EXPERTISE WITH ADVANCED TRAINING
Exclusive to the OBM Institute, this program provides the full Certified OBM® training plus advanced leadership skills, business strategy, and ready-made marketing tools. It’s everything you need to lead confidently, launch or grow your business, and deliver exceptional results for your clients.
CONFIDENTLY LAUNCH OR LEVEL UP YOUR CAREER
Whether launching a business or advancing in your career, our Business Launch Bootcamp and Career Advancement Support provide step-by-step guidance. With proven strategies and practical insights, you’ll be ready to confidently start your business or secure promotions.
EARN THE INDUSTRY'S GOLD STANDARD IN CREDENTIALS
Earn the Certified OBM® credential through the International Association of Online Business Managers (IAOBM), the industry’s most trusted and recognized certification. This designation opens doors to new opportunities and sets you apart as a proven expert in online business management.
STAY SUPPORTED LONG AFTER CERTIFICATION
Your support doesn’t end with the program. With a one-year membership in the International Association of Online Business Managers (IAOBM), you’ll gain access to additional resources, live workshops, continued education, and a vibrant community of Certified OBMs, ensuring long-term success and support in your OBM career.
Take the Next Step
FAQ
What industries can I work in as a Certified OBM®?
Graduates of our program have worked with a wide variety of clients across multiple industries. Certified OBMs apply their skills in diverse fields such as:
- Professional Services: Assisting consultants, coaches, financial advisors, and legal services.
- Health & Wellness: Managing operations for fitness professionals, wellness centers, and healthcare providers.
- Creative & Media: Supporting creative agencies, marketing teams, design firms, media production companies, and personal brands such as authors and public speakers.
- Real Estate & Construction: Overseeing operations for real estate agents, property managers, construction firms, and architecture practices.
- Corporate & Administration: Managing operations and teams for corporate businesses and administrative services.
- Trades: Streamlining workflows for contractors and skilled trades.
- E-commerce & Retail: Optimizing operations for online shops and retail businesses.
- Technology & Startups: Supporting tech companies, SaaS businesses, and innovative startups.
- Education & Training: Helping educators, online course creators, and training companies with their operations.
This is just a partial list—nearly every industry needs professionals who can embrace new ways of working by optimizing systems, managing projects, and driving growth. As an online business management professional, you’ll have the flexibility to work with clients who align with your values and inspire you.
Is the Certified OBM® Program Right for You?
- Experienced managers in operations or administration who want to advance their careers, learn modern skills, and step into more strategic roles.
- Freelancers or virtual assistants who are ready to increase their responsibility and lead in business management.
- New entrepreneurs looking to streamline their operations and scale their businesses effectively.
- Business coaches and consultants seeking to enhance their own operations and better support their clients in managing teams and scaling businesses.
- Career changers from fields like teaching, nursing, or similar, eager to transition into a high-demand role that values their organizational and leadership strengths.
- Corporate professionals making a move into flexible, remote work or launching their own business.
And if you don’t see yourself listed above, you might still be a great fit if:
- You’re a natural organizer who brings structure and clarity to complex projects.
- You enjoy turning big ideas into actionable steps and ensuring they get done.
- You thrive behind the scenes, helping others realize their visions while keeping everything running smoothly.
- You’re a problem-solver who loves streamlining processes, improving workflows, and boosting productivity.
- You value teamwork and leadership, aligning people and projects toward a common goal.
Can I balance the program with a full-time job?
How long does it take to complete?
The program provides 6 months of access to complete the core skills portion at your own pace. Many students finish this portion within 3 months, using the remaining time for mentorship and client support as they transition into real-world applications. For those eager to accelerate, our unlimited 1:1 sessions make it easy to gain hands-on experience sooner—both paths are fully supported.
Throughout your 6-month access period, you’ll have a personalized study plan with regular check-ins, live calls, and dedicated mentorship to keep you on track. And don’t worry—you’ll keep access to all training materials, updates, and resources whenever you need them.
But the support doesn’t stop there! After completing Certification Week, you’ll receive an additional full year of support through the International Association of Online Business Managers. This includes live group coaching, a professional network, client RFPs, and more.
What does the Certified OBM® program include?
- Core skills training
- Hands-on, real-world projects
- Weekly live sessions
- 1:1 personalized mentorship
- Ready-to-use resources, templates, and workflows
- Preparation for the Official Certified OBM® designation (upon successful completion of Certification Week), with all fees covered as part of our accredited training partnership.
- 6 months of coaching and mentorship, offering continued guidance as you apply your skills
- Advanced Leadership and Skill Training (exclusive to the OBM Institute), equipping you to excel as a leader
- Business Launch Bootcamp and Career Advancement Support, providing expert guidance for business or career growth
- Ongoing access to all training materials, so you can revisit and refresh anytime
- Alumni perks, including discounts on future OBM Institute programs
- One-year IAOBM membership with access to exclusive resources, a professional OBM community, live workshops, and continued education
How can I find clients or advance my career as an OBM?
How do I earn the Certified OBM® credential?
Is this certification useful if I don’t want to start my own business?
Is certification necessary to succeed in online business management?
How Do I Become a Certified OBM®?
Meet Your Certified OBM® Leadership
Team
Your Certified OBM® Leadership Team
The OBM Institute: A Premier Training Academy and Accredited Partner of the International Association of Online Business Managers
Our Certified OBM Success Team is here to support you every step of the way, from mastering core skills to achieving your certification and growing your career. With industry experts, mentors, and specialized instructors, our team provides real-world insights, 1:1 guidance, and personalized support to ensure your success as an Online Business Manager.
WADE LANGIN
Founder, OBM Institute and Accredited Training Partner of the IAOBM
TINA FORSYTH
Founder, International Association of Online Business Managers (IAOBM)
OBM Institute is an Accredited Training Partner with the International Association of Online Business Managers .
OBM Insiders Pro
Live Workshop Series
- The Art of Networking Authentically
- Networking for Clients
- Build Your List Workshop
- Build a Content Marketing Plan
- Marketing in Tough Times
- OBM Agency Roadmap
- OBM Ambassador
- Multiple Streams of Income
- Data Dashboard & Metrics
Resource Library
- Revenue Roadmap
- Facebook Ads Program
- Client Acquisition System
- The OBM Consultant System
- Mastering Discovery Sessions
Join the waitlist
Join the waitlist
Download the CERTIFIED OBM®
Program Syllabus
Enter your information below to receive a copy of the Certified OBM® Training Syllabus
I understand that by submitting my information I may also receive tips, newsletters and occasional invitations to trainings and offers from The OBM Institute (OBMI), and I can choose to opt-out at any time. All information is 100% private and will never be sold or shared in any form.
Master Essential Marketing Management Skills
In these nine modules, you'll learn:
- Core Concepts: Master the basics of marketing management.
- Essential Tools: Use key tools to handle marketing tasks efficiently.
- Actionable Strategies: Create marketing plans that boost business growth.
- Smooth Implementation: Execute strategies to achieve your goals.
- Measurement and Refinement: Track results and adjust for optimal performance.
- Scalable Solutions: Develop marketing plans that evolve with the business.
- Integration: Align marketing efforts with overall business operations.
- Problem Solving: Identify and resolve issues before they impact success.
- Clear Reporting: Demonstrate the value and impact of your work to clients.
Plus, you'll learn how to:
- Attract New Clients: Find and engage clients who need these services.
- Upsell Enhanced Services: Expand your offerings to existing clients.
- Manage Client ROI: Deliver and manage the return on investment for your clients effectively.
By the end, you'll be ready to deliver impactful marketing management that drives growth, attracts new opportunities, and adds real value to your clients, making you a key partner in their success.
Ten Live Sessions for Real-Time Learning and Support
These sessions offer a unique opportunity to:
- Learn Live with Peers: Gain practical insights and skills while collaborating with others who share your goals.
- Receive Expert Guidance: Get direct support and answers to your questions from industry professionals.
- Engage and Collaborate: Connect with fellow participants, share experiences, and build a network of like-minded professionals.
- Apply What You’ve Learned: Receive immediate feedback to ensure you’re effectively implementing new skills and strategies.
Apply Your Skills
with Hands-On Project
- Build Confidence: Feel more assured in your abilities by working on actual tasks.
- Solidify Your Knowledge: Deepen your understanding by applying concepts directly.
- Showcase Your Skills: Demonstrate what you can do and prepare to deliver great results for clients.
- Refine Your Approach: Fine-tune your strategies and develop a clear, effective method for marketing management.
Ready-to-Use Resources and Tools
These practical tools will help you streamline your marketing tasks and boost efficiency, allowing you to achieve better results.
You can use them for your clients and your own business, making it easy to apply what you’ve learned without starting from scratch.
Recordings of All Live Sessions
Whether you missed a session or want to review essential content, these recordings provide a flexible, hybrid learning experience to reinforce your understanding and application of marketing management skills.
Limited Time Bonus: Become a Founding Member of OBM Insiders!
- Weekly Hot Seat Coaching Sessions: Plug into weekly group coaching sessions where you can get clear on your next steps, overcome obstacles, and stay focused on your goals.
- Supportive Community: Connect with like-minded professionals for support and networking.
- Exclusive Courses: Access a range of courses to boost your skills and business growth.
- Early Access: Be the first to try new programs (at no extra cost), like Boutique Agency in December this year.
- Discounts on Tools: Save on essential software and resources.
- Low Renewal Fees: Get special rates for continued access and support.
Limited Time Bonus: Immediate Access to 4 Months of Weekly Hot Seat Coaching
Limited Time Bonus: Immediate Access to On-Demand Video Trainings
Get Instant Access to:
Revenue Roadmap: Create a customized business growth plan that outlines exactly what you need to do to grow and scale your business.
Essential Business Networking Skills: Develop the interpersonal skills and confidence to build valuable professional relationships.
List Building Lead Magnets: A step-by-step process for attracting new clients on autopilot through planning, creating, and marketing your ideal lead magnet.
Mastering Discovery Sessions: How to Use Strategy Sessions to Sell Without Being Salesy
The Art of Selling Authentically: Learn how to use your OBM skills to compete and flourish in the competitive consulting field.
OBM Consultant: Learn how to use your OBM skills to compete and flourish in the competitive consulting field.
Client Acquisition System Workshop: Maximize your profits with a full funnel of offers. Click to access.
Access Upcoming Courses as They’re Released:
Limited Time Bonus: Immediate Access to a Community of Like-Minded Go-Getters
Roundtable
Mastermind Sessions
Join three bi-monthly roundtable discussions with a group of like-minded mastermind peers. These sessions will give you valuable insights, advanced strategies, and helpful feedback, while encouraging collaboration to help you grow and improve your leadership skills. Strengthen your influence, build your network, and achieve greater success with the support of this group.
Private Coaching
If you’re feeling overwhelmed with information and need focused direction and accountability to make real progress, this experience is for you
For six months, you’ll benefit from personalized 1:1 coaching, with 2x/month private sessions plus unlimited access to real-time guidance via a Voxer-style app, ensuring you stay on track with continuous support whenever you need it.
Direct Feedback on
Marketing Assets
Receive six months of personalized feedback and guidance on all your marketing assets.
Sales Call Reviews & Feedback
Benefit from up to 6 personalized feedback on recorded sales calls to enhance your sales strategy.
Exclusive Access to Unannounced New Releases
Stay ahead of the curve with early access to new programs, available exclusively to Leadership Circle Members.
Crafting Your Signature System Presentation
Promotions Package
Early Bonus for the First 10 Only:
Recorded Podcast Feature in 2025:
Showcase your expertise in a podcast interview to reach a wider audience.
Live Video Interview in 2025:
Participate in a live video interview for promotional use, amplifying your visibility.
Inclusion in Articles in 2025:
Gain exposure by being featured in relevant articles, boosting your authority and market presence.
Virtual Live Event in 2025:
Complimentary access to the OBMI virtual live event, with an option to attend in person (travel and accommodation costs not included).