We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Callie Saigh. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Callie below.
Hi Callie, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
Oh man, I didn’t even know what imposter syndrome was until I started my web design business, and once I did, the feelings of it hit me hard. I would look at other designers’ portfolios thinking, “I’ll never be that good,” or “Why would someone pay me when they could hire someone like that?” It. Was. Real.
And honestly, I’m not sure those feelings ever totally disappear. But over time, as I’ve built my business (and my confidence), those thoughts have definitely quieted down.
What’s helped me the most is recognizing that I do bring something valuable to the table – maybe even something unique that others don’t. I’m honest, approachable, intuitive, fair, and a clear communicator. And based on what I’ve heard from clients, and what I have seen in the industry, that combination is actually pretty rare in the web design world.
So while I might not be out here creating the fanciest websites on the internet, and there is certainly always room to improve…I am creating beautiful, functional sites that truly help my clients grow their businesses. And that’s what matters.
Focus on your strengths, lead with authenticity, and the rest will follow.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I like to think of myself as a digital champion for my clients. Yes, I’m a web designer by trade, but what I really love is helping people understand their digital presence and showing them how to use the internet as a powerful tool for success.
I primarily work with solopreneurs who may not have the marketing budget to keep a web developer on retainer. I help them get set up with a good looking, functional website that reflects who they are and what they offer, and then I train them to maintain it confidently on their own.
While I don’t niche down to a specific industry, I’m especially drawn to working with clients who are ready to level up their business, collaborate thoughtfully throughout the process, and who are intentional about the services they offer – whether that’s through an environmentally-conscious lens, a focus on community, or a desire to do good in the world.
When I work one-on-one with small business owners, I feel like my superpower is being just as passionate about their success as they are. I want to see them thrive, and I think that energy is contagious. It’s especially meaningful to me because I’m walking the same entrepreneurial path myself. My favorite part of everything I do is playing a role in my clients’ success.
For the last 7 years, Squarespace has been my go-to platform, and it’s still very much my bread and butter, but more recently I’ve been expanding into Showit for clients who want more out-of-the-box, visually bold portfolio designs.
At the heart of my brand is the belief that tech should feel empowering, not overwhelming. My goal is to simplify the process, build confidence, and create websites that are not only beautiful and functional, but that genuinely support the growth of the businesses behind them.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
First and foremost: customer service, always. That’s number one. At the end of the day, a client hires you to get the job done, and while there may be personality differences or bumps in the road, if you stay focused on delivering a great experience and a solid outcome, you can work through just about anything. I’ve learned that keeping your client’s satisfaction at the center of the process is key to building trust and lasting relationships. It’s important to note that you can still provide a top-notch client experience, while adhering to your own work boundaries.
Second, you’ve got to be tech-savvy – or at the very least, resourceful. In my work, tech issues pop up all the time, and I don’t always have the answer right away. But if you’re curious, not afraid to dig in, and willing to use Google like your best friend, you’ll almost always figure it out. That willingness to troubleshoot and keep learning goes a long way.
And lastly: honesty. I think it’s one of the most important traits in any industry. Be honest about your expectations. Be honest about what you can deliver. Be honest with yourself. When you lead with honesty, everything else tends to fall into place. It builds stronger client relationships, sets the right tone for collaboration, and gives you peace of mind knowing you’re staying true to your word.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
Oh gosh, not to get too soft on y’all, but my husband has hands-down been my biggest cheerleader in my entrepreneurial journey. After we had our first kid, he held down the 9-to-5 while I stayed home with our newborn, and it was during that time that I discovered my passion for web design and started building this business of mine.
And not only is he my #1 fan, he’s basically my unofficial business coach. The guy’s a natural-born sales leader with next-level business acumen, and he’s always down to talk me through tricky client situations or give me a loving nudge when I’m undervaluing my work. He keeps me grounded, confident, and just the right amount of sassy when I need it most.
Truly couldn’t ask for a better teammate – in life and business.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.riseupwebdesign.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riseup_webdesign/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066411504943
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/callie-saigh-66b9002a/
Image Credits
Photography By: FUNKJUICE
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.