Artificial intelligence is a hot topic, and with technological innovation continuing in AI, it's likely to remain a popular subject. The utilization of AI for marketing has only grown. As a communications firm, our clients often ask about AI -- are we using it? Should they use it? And how can AI be used to obtain the best ROI and results possible?
Since we work with many small businesses, the concern is also budget. Fortunately, there's a wealth of AI options available that can enhance marketing efforts and improve efficiency without significant investment. These clients often don't know where to start, so let's discuss some low-hanging fruit.
The AI tools we recommend are simple, easy to use and affordable, helping take your marketing to the next level.
Related: How to Incorporate AI Into Your Marketing Strategies
AI is not only more accessible, but it's also incredibly versatile. You might already be using AI without even realizing it. From the personalized product recommendations you see online to the chatbots that answer your customer service inquiries, AI is all around us. Even platforms like Meta (formerly Facebook) utilize AI extensively to enhance user experience and advertising effectiveness. Meta employs AI algorithms to analyze vast amounts of data, including user demographics, behavior and preferences, allowing businesses to target their ads more accurately and optimize placements for better results. This capability means that businesses can reach the right audience at the right time, often without needing deep marketing expertise.
In fact, businesses are quickly adopting AI, and the statistics from a recent AI survey speak for themselves:
For small businesses, the ability to access AI tools that are both affordable and user-friendly means that the technology is more attainable than ever. Gone are the days when you needed a dedicated team of developers to implement AI into your marketing strategy. Today's AI platforms, including those offered by Meta, are designed with usability in mind, and most require little to no technical knowledge. This allows even the smallest businesses to tap into AI's capabilities and create content that rivals larger competitors.
Related: 6 Positive Impacts of AI on Digital Marketing
Here are some of our favorite AI software that are inexpensive, along with their descriptions and pricing:
Related: How Small and Mid-Sized Businesses Can Leverage AI to Compete With Large Companies
AI has leveled the playing field for businesses of all sizes, allowing even small enterprises to produce quality content and compete effectively with larger players. This democratization of technology means that businesses can access tools and insights previously reserved for those with larger budgets. Moreover, you don't need to be an AI expert to benefit from these tools. Many platforms offer intuitive interfaces and step-by-step guidance, enabling marketers to implement AI strategies with confidence.
Incorporating AI into your marketing efforts can lead to significant cost savings and improved efficiency. Whether it's automating repetitive tasks, generating creative content or analyzing data for better targeting, AI helps businesses maximize their resources and achieve better results. By leveraging these tools, small businesses can compete on a larger scale, ultimately driving growth and enhancing customer relationships.