By Brad Mitchell, Owner and Founder, Mitchell Media LLC brad@mitchellmediallc.com
A few short years ago I, like many of you, heard about AI and figured that this shiny new thing would be replaced by the next passing fad within the year. It sounded futuristic, irrelevant to my current business, and frankly a distraction. But my eyes opened one day when I had to quickly build a presentation and I stared at a blank screen for 15 minutes before I caved and asked ChatGPT for help. What I initially saw as a weakness on my part to have to lean on tech to do my work was actually a light-bulb moment when I understood that my little AI friend understood my direction, had boundless energy, and could save countless hours of precious time.
AI is everywhere in today’s marketing world, but for many small business owners and marketers, it can feel overwhelming or even intimidating. The truth is, you don’t have to be a tech giant or a boy genius to benefit from AI. By taking small, strategic steps, you can harness AI’s power to save time, boost efficiency, and grow your business-without the fear factor.
Why You Should Embrace AI (One Step at a Time)
AI isn’t about replacing people; it’s about freeing you and your team from repetitive tasks so you can focus on what matters most: building relationships and driving growth18. Here’s how you can start making progress each week, even if you’re new to AI:
1. Set Clear, Measurable Goals
Don’t adopt AI just for the sake of it. Start by identifying a specific business challenge-like reducing time spent on data entry or improving customer engagement-and set measurable objectives. This keeps your efforts focused and helps you track progress356.
2. Start Small with Automation
Begin by automating simple, repetitive tasks. Tools like QuickBooks can handle bookkeeping, while web chatbots can answer common customer questions 24/7. Even automating appointment scheduling can save hours each week18.
3. Personalize Your Marketing
AI can help you deliver more relevant content to your customers. For example, AI-powered platforms like Shopify or Adobe Sensei can suggest products based on browsing history, while email marketing tools can tailor messages to individual preferences-boosting engagement and conversion rates27.
4. Invest in Training and Involve Your Team
Show your team how AI can make their jobs easier, not replace them. Offer training and encourage feedback on where AI could help most. Identify a few “power users” to champion new tools and share their experiences with the rest of the team45.
5. Work with Trusted Partners and Review Progress Weekly
You don’t have to do it alone. Partner with AI vendors or consultants who understand your industry. Set up weekly check-ins to review what’s working, address challenges, and celebrate small wins. This keeps momentum going and builds confidence as you scale up456.
By embracing AI in baby steps, you’ll not only make your business more efficient-you’ll set yourself up for long-term success in a rapidly changing marketplace. Start small, stay curious, and watch your business thrive.
Curious about how the A-I Powered Mitchell Media Business App can streamline your business operations, gain efficiencies, handle customers and prospects fluidly, and grow your business to new levels? We’re here to listen to your pain points and roll out elegant solutions that will blow away your competition. Talk to us at sales@mitchellmediallc.com