Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Brittney Ashley, Founder of Creative Dynamics Virtual Services LTD., located in Victoria, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Creative Dynamics Virtual Services is changing how you outsource. Our all-Canadian team is made up of Virtual Assistants, OBMs, CRM specialists, marketing gurus, graphic designers, and copywriters with decades of combined experience. You get one Virtual Assistant/OBM, but you will have access to a team. Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses, and it's about time we build a business that focuses on everyone's strengths. For example, perhaps you have a VA who is amazing at administration but doesn't like to create blogs. Not to worry, as we can reach into the team and have someone who can create SEO-friendly blogs for you. Our boutique-style virtual assistant agency loves working with entrepreneurs who are small business owners, creatives, coaches, and realtors.
Tell us about yourself
I started my business out of a need to help moms work from home. When I was trying to get back into the workforce after having my daughter a few years ago, trying to find a job that was flexible and close to home was simply impossible. More importantly, I was tired of working for someone who didn't understand the importance of flexibility as a working parent. Since COVID, the meaning of flexibility is more important than ever for working parents. What motivates me each day is knowing I'm building a company that offers moms flexibility and building a business that is based on collaboration and community.
I'm a very multi-passionate entrepreneur, and I always want to expand and help those achieve their dreams. I just became a Certified/Professional Business coach (ACC credited with the ICF), and I am motivated to do two things with this certification:
- Help women build their foundational businesses online and support our team with coaching when needed. Coaching is a great tool to support and also empower individuals to thrive.
- Work with youth to overcome limiting beliefs when they have been diagnosed with Dyslexia. How does this link to Creative Dynamics? I think we need to show the younger generation that entrepreneurship is more than OK. I was diagnosed with Dyslexia at a young age, and I've finally found my true passion. I want to help youth know they don't have to be put in a box. Watch this video to learn more about my dyslexia journey:
As you can see, more than one thing motivates me! Many say "niche down" and focus on one thing. However, as a multi-passionate entrepreneur, I really think you can do it all if you have the passion and motivation to help others.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Lasting this long with two small kids at home. I started the business with my daughter (8 months) and now my son (17 months), so there is never a dull moment over here. Starting a business has never been an easy venture, and adding two young kids into the mix is, well, interesting. There are many ups and downs, but knowing how far I've come in the last few years is a big accomplishment in itself.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I think everyone can attest that motherhood is already a full-time job, and building a business with two small kids has been very hard. I would say the kids are home way more than being in care, so that sometimes puts my plans on hold. However, my drive, motivation to help others, and overall mindset has really helped me come this far.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Mindset - When it comes to running a successful business, it pays to have a positive attitude. The way you act around challenges and obstacles will reflect on the way you conduct business. Trust me, there have been plenty of times when maybe I didn't get that client, but my positive mindset has pushed me forward.
- Resiliency and tenacity - Every business sees times of hardship and difficulties. Take the time to rest, recharge, and get back on your feet to try once more.
- Automation- Automation is your best friend! Always think about how you can implement automation within your business to streamline your work. Having systems in your business will help you build a business in more ways than one. I wouldn't be here today if I didn't have some automation working for me!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.creativedynamicsva.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CreativeDynamicsva
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/creativedynamicsva/
https://www.instagram.com/theambitiousmomsclub/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittneyashley/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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