Preeti Mittal founded BlueBit Systems in 2010 and the company has it’s headquarters in Mumbai. Her passion for online marketing changed the course of her career and turned her into an entrepreneur.
She holds a bachelor degree (B.Tech) in IT and Masters Degree in International Business Management. As a founder of BlueBit Systems, she has served over 100 clients, including market leading brands from a range of industries. She has become renowned for their commitment to innovative techniques and technologies.
We caught up with her to find out how and why she embarked on the entrepreneurial journey.
- What inspired to become an entrepreneur? Did you always love it or was it something you got into?
I decided to become an entrepreneur after 5 yrs of my graduation when I was working for various companies but never felt challenged enough. I required some business and industry exposure before I start my venture. Entrepreneurship is doing something that I really love to do.
- What learning lessons can you share from your startup experience?
Always trust your team but have checks and accountability.
Create an awesome culture at your startup and promote continuous learning.
Ask for inputs from your team and create transparency in communication.
- What are some challenges that you faced initially when you started out? Do you have some examples to share and advice to women entrepreneurs on overcoming them?
When female starts business in India, it is mostly taken as hobby and not as a bonafide business. You need to overcome this challenge.
Women also face additional cultural pressures to be the “perfect mom” and a successful businesswoman at the same time, and this can cause tremendous stress for women entrepreneurs.
You need to outsource some of your homely chores; and spare time to devote to your family and business.
- What are all the things that a woman entrepreneur needs to keep in mind? I.e. apart from your great idea, what do you need to be armed with?
Apart from great idea, you need to have a good work-life balance and a highly motivated and strong team. Leverage technology to increase efficiency.
- Do women entrepreneurs find it tougher to get funding for businesses? If yes, why do you think that is?
Our business is self sufficient and we never tried for funding. I don’t think women find it difficult to get funding these days. Now the mindset of venture capitalists is different and we have lots of successful women entrepreneurs.
I don’t think there are any such road blocks. If you have the courage and determination, then nothing can stop you from becoming successful.
- How did you recruit your first team? How difficult was it to get people on board during the initial stages?
Building my first team was a unique and fun experience. I wanted to have a team by the time I have the possession of my office. So I arranged the interviews in a nearby mall and finalized the candidates.
It’s quite challenging to form a startup team. You need people with high enthusiasm and innovation. People are not aware of your brand and attrition rate remains high. Make sure you understand in details the skills you require.
- What are 3 key things that you have learned as an entrepreneur?
While you are working, make sure you are open to feedback from your clients. Always welcome constructive criticism.
I think networking is very important and hugely beneficial especially in the early stages. Take time out to network often.
Entrepreneurs! Don’t waste your time and get your business running. Why do something tomorrow when you can do it today?
- How important is social media in building a business today? How has it played a role in helping you build yours?
I setup BlueBit with the simple vision of helping startups leverage technology to improve their advertising, and till today this vision drives us. I have realized that online marketing and social media marketing is one of the most effective ways to build brands.
- Can you share some tips for women entrepreneurs to maintain a balance between work and family life?
Definitely, it’s tough for women entrepreneurs to strike a work-life balance. I utilize my time only on activities that add value to my work.
I set my priorities and work on them. As I plan my schedule for weekdays, I make a plan for the weekend so that I have sufficient time with my family as well.
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