Ido Raz is the President and Co-Founder of Bigabid, a data science company that has developed a second-generation DSP optimized for in-app advertising user acquisition & re-engagement. With his history as a serial entrepreneur, Ido has extensive experience building companies from the ground up, both online and in real life and since 2016, had been doing the same with Bigabid. Ido brings to the table over 10 years of experience in the app and digital marketing space, leading a Bigabid team focused on developing the go-to platform for app developers looking to successfully reach high-value users.
Where did the idea for Bigabid come from?
The idea for Bigabid came from a simple understanding that there’s a lack of efficiency of how things are being made in our industry. The media industry is fascinating as it is evolving and changing all the time and I was lucky to get exposed to it early in my career. As I dived deeper, however, I understood what was needed in order to push the evolution of the industry to the next level – which was that if you want to start a venture that can really be disruptive, you have to recognize where there is a real need for change and how it can be addressed. I saw this scenario clearly within the media industry in how (generally speaking) it uses data to reach growth goals in ways that were inefficient as compared to the level of data usage in industries like the cybersecurity. So my partners and I set out to start Bigabid.
What does your typical day look like and how do you make it productive?
I organize the entire week in advance so that it always starts with checking my schedule, as my typical day changes all the time. I believe that being productive is a state of mind, which is why from the moment I wake up in the morning till the second, I fall asleep, I am always thinking about what else I can be doing and if it will accomplish my set goals. I also work on self-managing and planning to make sure I am putting in effort in the most efficient way possible.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I just start. It’s hard for people to understand but it’s a very simple concept. You need to put yourself in motion and everything else will follow. Sometimes I start by talking to people, writing it on paper, and or it starts by doing research. No matter what the course of action though, the general concept is to just start.
What’s one trend that excites you?
Artificial Intelligence. It’s fascinating (and scary at the same time) to see where it will take us.
What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur?
My ability to be agile and adjust to changes.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Don’t be afraid. Jump into it!
Tell us something that’s true that almost nobody agrees with you on.
“Family Guy” is better than “South Park”.
As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do?
Be optimistic. Keep trying.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business?
Focus on what you’re good at and let others do the rest. Don’t try to control everyone.
What is one failure you had as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?
One of the biggest failures I had is the perception that I need to know how to do everything. So, for a long time I put in a lot of effort and attempted to strengthen my weak skills. Eventually I got to a realization that “it’s ok not to know how to do everything” and “I will achieve so much more if I’ll focus in doing things that I’m good at.”
What is one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers?
A production studio for VR movies.
What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?
High-Intensity Vibrating Fitness Roller. It’s actually $199, but worth every dollar! As a person that sits in front of a computer all day, this product is a game changer. It helps with muscle pains and it’s a must buy.
What is one piece of software or a web service that helps you be productive?
Monday.com. We use it in the organization to manage our tasks and I also use it for my personal ones. Highly recommended!
What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why?
One of the last books I read was “Never Split The Difference” by Chris Voss. I think it’s a must-read book that gives you a completely different view on the art of negotiation.
What is your favorite quote?
“A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
Carlyn runs the day-to-day publishing operation here at ideamensch and interacts with our awesome customers and entrepreneurs. She is likely editing this with a cat on her lap.