Today we’d like to introduce you to Katlyn Paskorz

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?

I always felt a bit lost when it came to choosing a career path. I didn’t have a clear passion or feel particularly good at any one thing. When I graduated college, it was right in the middle of a recession. The first full-time job with benefits that I could find was at a bank, where I ended up working for eight years. Although I wasn’t happy there, I didn’t know what else to pursue.
After one particularly rough day at work, my husband, a software engineer, suggested I try learning web development. Initially, I had a litany of excuses: I wasn’t smart enough, didn’t have enough time or patience, and was already eight years into my career. Despite my reluctance, he continued to encourage me every time I had a bad day.
Finally, after receiving a “meets expectations” rating on my yearly review instead of the “exceeds expectations” I needed for a small raise, I decided to give web development a try. I started with free front-end development courses online, then moved on to more advanced courses and a WordPress course. It was the hardest I had ever worked, and I faced many challenges, failing the JavaScript section seven times.
I began freelancing on Upwork, and it took three months to land my first client. From there, I gradually built up a client base and eventually quit my job. I figured that if I could learn web development, I could learn to run a business too. I started my own business, learning and growing through each stumble along the way. Clients began asking for help with SEO, so I learned that as well.
That was six years ago, and I haven’t looked back since. This journey has been challenging but incredibly rewarding, and it has led me to a career I am truly passionate about.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

No, absolutely not. My journey has been anything but smooth. My first client on Upwork was a total disaster. Despite trying my best with the information she provided, she immediately canceled the contract and left me a one-star review out of five when I asked for feedback. In the Upwork freelancing world, customer reviews are crucial for attracting more clients, so I was devastated and almost quit right then.

I reached out to her to understand what went wrong, and it turned out to be a misunderstanding regarding the contract. She revised her review to three stars, but it still took a while for me to regain my confidence. This experience taught me a valuable lesson: each setback is a learning opportunity in disguise. Over time, I learned to view challenges as stepping stones rather than obstacles, which has helped me grow both professionally and personally.

We’ve been impressed with Katydid PGH, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?

I started my business focusing solely on website design, but it has quickly evolved into much more. Every project I undertake is approached with an SEO mindset. Many of my clients have expressed how important this is to them, as they often find that other website designers treat SEO as a separate entity. For me, SEO is an integral part of creating a sustainable and successful business.

As a business owner, your primary objective is to make sales because that’s how your business thrives and helps more people. SEO is not a daunting or mysterious challenge; it’s something that everyone can learn and integrate into their daily business practices. My goal is to break down the traditional barriers and technical jargon surrounding SEO, making it accessible to all.

What sets my business apart is this holistic approach. I don’t just build beautiful websites; I create platforms that drive traffic, engage users, and convert visitors into customers. I’m most proud of this comprehensive strategy and the tangible results it brings to my clients.

I want readers to know that my brand is dedicated to empowering business owners with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed online. Whether you need a new website, an SEO overhaul, or guidance on digital marketing, my services are designed to help your business grow and thrive.

We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?

When it comes to luck, I don’t believe in it in the traditional sense, except perhaps for going viral on social media, which is largely algorithm-based. Even then, it’s about aligning with the algorithm’s rules at the right time. In my view, hard work and persistence are the true drivers of success in business.

Growing a business requires consistent effort and dedication. While taking breaks is essential for maintaining balance and avoiding burnout, the key is to pick up where you left off and keep pushing forward. Consistency is crucial in making business ownership sustainable and achieving long-term success.

Ultimately, I attribute my accomplishments to my determination, resilience, and the unwavering support of those around me. These elements have played a far more significant role in my journey than luck ever could.

Pricing:

• $1500 – Book me for a day. Website Updates and troubleshooting.
• $1390/per month – Essential SEO Package
• $1890/per month – Elite SEO Package

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.katydidpgh.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katydidpgh/