How Does AI Help with Digital Marketing?
Alright, let’s talk AI.
Yes, that AI. The one you’ve heard about in the news, the one that writes things and makes pictures and kind of sounds like magic.
But what does it actually mean for your business and your marketing?
If you’re a small or medium-sized business owner, chances are you’re wearing 47 hats already, from emails to invoices to "wait, did we post on Instagram this week?"
I get it.
You don’t have time to deep-dive into techy stuff. So here’s the good news: AI is not here to replace you – it’s here to help you. Especially when it comes to marketing.
Let’s break it down. No fluff. No buzzwords. Just the basics.
So, what even is AI?
AI (short for Artificial Intelligence) is basically a really smart computer program that can help you do stuff faster.
Think:
Writing your captions
Coming up with email subject lines
Suggesting blog ideas
Making sense of all the numbers in your website stats
It’s like having a super clever assistant who never takes a lunch break and is always excited to bounce around ideas.
How can AI help with your marketing?
Let’s say you’ve got a gorgeous product, an amazing service, or a story worth sharing – but you’re stuck on how to get it out there. AI can lend a hand in lots of little (but mighty) ways:
Content ideas: Not sure what to post? AI can help brainstorm fun, relevant, on-brand ideas in seconds. You just need to create them.
Writing stuff: Blogs, captions, emails, bios – AI tools can write a first draft so you’re not starting with a scary blank page. You then need to execute.
Making sense of data: Got website traffic numbers and social media stats but no clue what they mean? AI can translate those into easy-to-understand insights (like, “hey – people LOVE your Friday posts, do more of that”). Actually take the advice and make the changes.
Planning ahead: Some tools can even create your plan, complete with ideas and reminders.
Okay, but… how do I actually use it?
Here’s the fun part – you don’t need to be techy.
There are simple tools out there that you can dip your toe into without needing a degree in rocket science.
A few places to start:
ChatGPT – Great for writing and brainstorming. Ask it questions like: “Write a fun Instagram caption for a florist in Hawke’s Bay.” Done.
Canva’s Magic Studio – If you use Canva (and who doesn’t?), this AI feature can write copy and help design your posts.
But wait – does this mean I don’t need a marketing person?
Not quite! AI is fab, but it’s still a tool.
Think of it like a whisk – it helps you bake the cake faster, but someone still needs to choose the recipe, pick the ingredients, and make sure it all tastes great. A marketer knows how to target the right audience, can develop and adapt the strategy and will take so much stress out of showing up online.
Final thoughts – is AI worth trying?
Heck yes.
If you’ve ever:
Spent 45 minutes trying to write a one-line caption
Had no clue what to post on your Facebook page
Wanted to start a blog but didn’t know how to begin
Then AI might just be the helping hand you need to finally get your marketing started – without the stress.
And if it still feels like a bit much? That’s okay too. That’s why I’m here. One step at a time, and I’ll make sure your digital presence works for you – not the other way around.
