6 Ways OBMs Make Money - And Why It’s More Than Just Retainers!

“Not what most people think.”

Slow and steady?

When you think about how Online Business Managers (OBMs) make money, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Retainers, right? That steady, predictable income from a handful of clients each month. And while that’s definitely a big part of it, it’s not the whole picture—not even close.

I’ve been in the OBM game for years, both as a Certified OBM® and a Certified OBM® Trainer, and I can tell you, there are so many more ways to bring in income as an OBM than people realise. Retainers? Sure, they’re great, but there’s a whole world of opportunity out there that goes way beyond the standard model.

So, if you’re wondering how to truly maximise your earning potential as an OBM, let’s break down six key ways to do just that. Spoiler alert: it’s all about creating a blend that works for you—whether you’re after stability, variety, or both!

It’s Not Just About Security—It’s About Flexibility

Many OBMs are drawn to the idea of retainers for one reason: security. And who can blame them? Knowing you’ve got money coming in each month is a huge weight off your shoulders. And hey, with bonuses and commissions thrown in, retainers can be even more rewarding!

But here’s the thing—what if you want more variety? Or what if you’re looking to scale your income beyond a couple of clients? This is where the beauty of being an OBM really kicks in. You don’t have to stick to one revenue stream; you’ve got options! Whether it’s taking on exciting projects, scaling your business, or trying out new ways to support your clients, the possibilities are endless.

Why Most OBMs Don’t Stick to Just One Thing

Here’s a little secret: most successful OBMs don’t rely on just one way of making money. In today’s fast-moving digital world, flexibility is key. Mixing up your revenue streams isn’t just about keeping things interesting; it’s about giving yourself more freedom and control.

You might start with one method and find that over time, adding in another (or two, or three) makes sense. It’s all about finding what works for you—what fits your strengths, your lifestyle, and your goals. You get to design a business that works for you rather than being locked into one way of doing things.

The Trick to Finding Your Perfect Mix

So, how do you figure out the best way to make money as an OBM? It starts with knowing what makes you tick. Do you love long-term client relationships or get more of a buzz from short-term projects? Are you focused on financial freedom, or is flexibility with your time more important to you?

The truth is, no two OBMs are the same, and your path might look completely different from someone else’s—and that’s perfectly okay! The beauty of this career is that you can tweak things as you go. Your business can grow and evolve, just like you.

Want to Know More?

Curious about these six different ways OBMs can make money and which one might be right for you? I’ve put together a quick guide that breaks them all down. It’s short, sweet, and packed with info to help you decide on your path.

Download my free guide and start building a flexible, rewarding OBM business today!

If you’re ready to take things a step further and are considering becoming a Certified OBM®, let’s chat! Apply for the programme learn more about me, or book a call .