AI used to feel like something out of a sci-fi movie. But now? It’s in your inbox, your social feed, your accounting software, and probably your competitors’ toolkit.
But what does it actually mean for small business owners, and how can you take advantage of it before you fall behind?
So, what is AI?
AI (Artificial Intelligence) is technology that can analyse data, learn patterns, and make decisions or generate content with minimal input. It sounds fancy, but many tools you’re already using have AI baked in—like:
- Grammarly or ChatGPT for writing help
- Canva’s Magic Resize or Background Remover
- Xero’s automatic coding suggestions
- Spotify's personalised playlists like Discover Weekly and other song recommendations
- Google Maps which can predict traffic patterns and make alternate route suggestions
- Instagram in your curated feeds based on previous behaviour
- iPhone which uses your face ID, predictive text and photo sorting
- Plus many, many more... we could go on and on.
It’s not just for techies or big corporations who are utilising AI anymore, you're likely already using it whether you know it or not. .
Here's how you can utilise AI to positively impact your small business:
- Productivity: AI tools can save hours on admin, marketing, and content creation.
- Cost reduction: You can automate or semi-automate tasks you’d normally outsource.
- Analysis: AI can analyse trends and help with forecasting or planning.
- Competition: If others are using it to move faster or cheaper, you might feel left behind and lose a competitive edge.
What you can do about it:
- Start small: Try one AI tool to speed up a repetitive task (e.g. meeting summaries, or email drafts).
- Upskill yourself and your team: Make AI a part of your internal conversations, show staff how it can make their work easier.
- Audit your time sucks: What tasks drain your time and your energy each week? AI might be able to help take the load off.
- Use AI ethically. Be transparent, keep you audience updated, and use AI to enhance (not replace) genuine value and human input.
- Keep learning. The tools are evolving fast. Join communities (like ours!) that stay up-to-date and share what works.
Adaptability is everything in the business world. AI is here whether you're up for it or not. The good news? You don’t need to be an expert, you just need to be curious and open to trying new ways of working.
Don't forget, we're here to help. Inside the Business Growth Network, we break down practical, real-life AI tools that actually help small business owners. From time-saving hacks to automation strategies, we show you how to work smarter in order to remain competitive.
Want to start using AI to save time and grow faster? Join us in the Business Growth Network and get access to training, toolkits, and support that help you make the most of the ever-change and evolving business landscape.
What are your biggest challenges when it comes to AI? Let us know in the comments section below.
