Inside the Mind of Protik Basu

We recently got the chance to sit down and interview Protik Basu Sir ,a fellow DTU graduate & co founder of Weaddo( a company which helps businesses improve customer experience and boost engagement using AI and data-driven marketing.) They have worked with Lenskart, Unilever, Wipro, Ey and many more reputable brands.

Sitting down with Protik Sir was both inspiring and insightful. We had the chance to ask him about a wide variety of subjects from the importance of an MBA to the essentials qualities in choosing a Co-Founder and much more.

With his focus on practical strategies and a commitment to continuous learning, his journey and the lessons he shared offer invaluable guidance for thriving in today’s fast-changing world.

We hope you enjoy reading this and find some useful insights along the way! 😃 

Introduction

Protik Basu graduated in Mechanical Engineering from Delhi Technological University (DTU) and is a first-generation entrepreneur transforming business growth in the digital era. Before starting his ventures, Protik Sir gained over a decade of leadership experience with renowned brands like Airtel, Dunkin’ Donuts, and Lemon Tree Hotels. He transitioned from corporate roles to entrepreneurship to bring together his expertise in marketing, technology, and business strategy.

Q: When starting your own company, what strategies did you use to land your first client and build long-term relationships?

A: We were very intentional about not rushing into funding initially, as we wanted to first create a compelling value proposition that sets us apart in the competitive market.Delivering exceptional value to our first few clients such as Bausch & Lomb, d2h, Domino's, and Allianz was crucial - we became their champions, and some even became our angel investors. Maintaining an ear to the ground to understand the market's needs, coupled with strong selling skills and a strategic plan, helped us secure those early wins. Ultimately, the secret sauce was having something unique to offer that no one else was providing at the time.

Q: What qualities should aspiring entrepreneurs look for in a co-founder?

A: The co-founder relationship is similar to a marriage - it requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to complement each other's strengths and weaknesses. Ideally, you should have a good working relationship and be comfortable being vulnerable with each other before committing to a business venture. Shared values, trust, and the willingness to work through ups and downs are essential. While capabilities are important, the ability to communicate openly and supporting each other through the challenges of entrepreneurship is even more crucial.

Q: How did you decide on your career path? Did you have a clear idea of what do you want to do in the future?

A: Absolutely not. Very few people do, to be honest. Everybody creates a backstory post-graduation, but the reality is that it's about following your interests and trying to learn as much as you can. You can connect the dots later. There's no need to have a clear ROI in mind for every course or subject you pursue. What's important is that you enjoy the learning process - that's what will really stick with you in the long run.

Q: Was there ever a point where you considered going back to a traditional job instead of pursuing entrepreneurship?

A: Personally, I never really contemplated going back to a job. But I know that's a a very natural reaction for many people. There's a certain comfort and security in having a steady paycheque, without having to worry about where the next one is coming from. However, the thrill of owning your own failures and successes is something I didn't want to let go of it. That said, there have certainly been ups and downs, and moments of doubt. The key is to constantly remind yourself of why you started this journey in the first place. If it's truly something you believe in and are passionate about, that will sustain you through the tough times. But there's nothing wrong with feeling the urge to go back to a safer option - it's a very human reaction. The important thing is to rekindle that initial flame if it starts to fade.

Q: How did your previous corporate experience contribute to your entrepreneurial journey?

A: Working in a corporate environment, even if it's not directly related to your entrepreneurial aspirations can be incredibly valuable. It allows you to learn in a relatively safe environment, understand how organisations function, and develop cross-functional skills. The experience I gained in my previous roles, from programming to digital marketing, equipped me with a well-rounded perspective that has been instrumental in my entrepreneurial endeavours. I encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to gain some corporate experience before taking the leap, as it can provide invaluable insights and prepare you for the challenges ahead.

Q: How important has networking been in your professional and entrepreneurial journey?

A: Networking is extremely important. But it's not just about collecting business cards at events. It's about creating meaningful relationships that add value to both parties. Meeting new people gives you fresh perspectives and learning opportunities. And for entrepreneurs, a strong network is crucial - not just for sales, but also for getting advice from trusted sources. You can't master all the skills required to build a successful business on your own, so having the right network is invaluable.

Q: As a successful entrepreneur, what role did your college experiences playing shaping your professional journey?

A: My college years were formative in many ways. I was actively involved in organising the mechanical engineering festival, which taught me the value of teamwork, initiative, and learning beyond the classroom. Participating in business case study competitions and being part of technical teams like “ASHRAE” also helped me develop a well-rounded skill set. These experiences planted the seed of entrepreneurship and taught me to be curious, humble, and understand the intersection of my passions and skills.

Q: What are your thoughts on pursuing an MBA? Do you think it's mainly for the salary boost?

A: MBA teaches you a lot of valuable business skills and perspectives that you may not pick up on your own. While it's not as crucial today as it was earlier, a good MBA programs can still give you a strategic advantage, especially in terms of networking. The education itself is important, but the connections and ability to approach problems from a business lens are equally valuable. That said, there are many successful people who have built great careers without an MBA, especially in the tech industry. As long as you're curious about how businesses operate, you can pick up that knowledge from various sources.

Q: How crucial is it for students to develop cross-disciplinary skills today?

A: Cross-disciplinary skills are incredibly important, as they allow you to connect the dots and see patterns that may not be obvious within a single field. My own career trajectory, spanning technical roles, digital marketing, and eventually entrepreneurship has benefited greatly from this approach. I encourage students to go broad in their interests, engage in conversations with people from diverse backgrounds, and continuously explore how different domains can intersect and complement each other. This curiosity and ability to synthesise knowledge will serve you well, regardless of the path you choose.

Q: How has digital marketing evolved over the years, and what strategies have contributed to the growth of your company?

A: At the fundamental level, the core objective of digital marketing hasn't changed , it's still about getting a good return on investment. But the complexity has increased exponentially. Today, you need a deep understanding of technology, analytics, and how different digital assets can work together. It's no longer just about social media or SEO - you have to consider workflow automation, AI, and data integration to optimize your efforts.

The growth of our company has been driven by a combination of factors - learning from our mistakes, pivoting when necessary, and leveraging diverse skills and perspectives. We've been fortunate to have a supportive team and network that has provided valuable advice and guidance along the way. Looking ahead, we're focused on rapid expansion into new markets with our existing products and use cases.

Q: What advice would you give to someone like me, who is about to enter the corporate world after graduation?

A: My advice would be to stay curious and keep learning. There are always new opportunities coming your way, and it's up to you to recognise and seize them. Don't be afraid to let go of something if you're not ready for it - it's okay to take your time. Additionally, I'd emphasize the importance of forming meaningful relationships, not just transactional ones. Talk to people, listen to their perspectives, and build a diverse network. You never know when those connections might open up new doors for you, even within a corporate setting. In fact, I've seen many of my colleagues create their own divisions and ventures within companies, which can be just as rewarding as entrepreneurship.

The key is to find what truly motivates you and aligns with your values. If you can do that, the path forward will become clearer, even if it's not a straight line. Stay open-minded, leverage your network, and don't be afraid to take calculated risks. That's the best way to navigate the early stages of your career.

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