Black History Month & Virtual Assistants-Celebrating Brittany Dantzler
The AVA is proud to support all its members in what they want by doing the work they love from wherever they choose. Each Association of Virtual Assistants member is making history and setting a new path for their lives and the lives of their families.
Last week we highlighted Latrice Prater. This week we are bringing you another exceptional VA to celebrate, Brittany Dantzler.
Brittany has recently celebrated her first year in business as a VA and we know her story will be very relatable to new VAs, those thinking about becoming a VA, and those who can remember back to when they first got started.
Please share some of your background so our readers can get to know you better.
Hey everyone, I am a virtual assistant specializing in executive and legal support for women entrepreneurs and attorneys. I started my virtual assistant business in January 2020 and have had some hiccups along the way. Thankfully, I was able to bounce back and my business has grown significantly.
Why is Black History Month important to you?
Black History Month is important to me because it highlights the significant contributions of African Americans. I have three young sons and I want them to understand where they came from, as dark as the history is. I also want them to realize that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. It is amazing to read the stories of African Americans who faced adversity but still made amazing contributions to history.
Is this year’s Black History Month more significant to you? If so, why?
I would not say yes and no. My kids are growing up and they are at an age where I can teach them about amazing African Americans and their contributions to history, so in that sense, this year’s Black History Month is more significant. My family and I have always celebrated Black History Month even when I was a kid. The tragic events that occurred in 2020 should not be the only reason that individuals celebrate Black History Month.
What or who inspired you to become a Virtual Assistant?
My family inspired me to become a Virtual Assistant. I had to go through a mindset change where I felt as though I was not good enough. I remember that voice telling me, “You cannot do this.” My family explained to me that I can do whatever I put my mind to. I was not raised to give up or quit. Once I got over that mindset challenge, my business went in a different direction.
What steps did you take to start your business?
I joined three virtual assistant communities, with one being the AVA. The AVA is an amazing organization to be a part of because there are amazing individuals in every stage of business where you can learn and grow, not only as a business but as a person.
What has been your best strategy for getting clients?
My best strategy has been applying to only my ideal client. In the beginning, I was all over the place and it was overwhelming. I started putting myself out there in various Facebook groups. Facebook groups have been a great resource because you meet a lot of amazing people.
Tell us about your services and what kinds of clients you enjoy working with.
I offer executive and legal support to women entrepreneurs and attorneys. I love working along with women entrepreneurs and supporting their journey. I love working with creative entrepreneurs who have amazing ideas and goals for their businesses but need assistance with making the dream come true.
When it comes to the VA industry, do you feel you are provided the same opportunities as others? Why or why not?
In this industry, I think the opportunities are what you make them. This means that as a business person, you can choose who you work with. You can have the ideal client in your head, and you can reach out and make a connection.
What have been your biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?
As it relates to being a virtual assistant, my biggest challenge has been myself. I let my insecurities get in the way of my potential. I took a step back and realized that I can do this. I’m not going to get every client and that’s okay. I read a fantastic quote and it stated that a no is considered your N(ext) O(opportunity).
How has the AVA made you feel welcome or how did you know you belong and are valued in the AVA?
The AVA is a great organization and community. You learn a lot from other virtual assistants. The moment I knew I belonged was when I would ask for feedback and Melissa would give the feedback to better myself as a business owner. The AVA cares and genuinely wants you to succeed.
How do you want to be remembered in history?
I want to be remembered in history as being a caring and loyal individual.
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Can you relate to Brittany’s VA journey? It certainly resonates with many virtual assistants in the AVA community. If you’re not already an AVA member you can still connect with Brittany and watch as she continues to grow her business!
The Association of Virtual Assistants’ mission is to become the most trusted source of information in the VA industry. We provide resources, education and training for virtual assistants at every stage of their career, and for clients as well in a like-minded community.
