How Small Businesses Can Leverage AI Tools to Work Smarter
Artificial intelligence is no longer exclusive to technology giants. Small businesses can gain just as much, if not more, by using AI responsibly to streamline processes, reduce costs, and deliver better customer experiences.
At the University of Cincinnati’s 1819 Innovation Hub, entrepreneurs are already leveraging AI to simplify workflows, enhance customer engagement, and grow their businesses. Here’s how your small business can do the same.
1. Automate Routine Tasks
Every business has routine tasks that drain time and energy — sorting emails, scheduling meetings, taking notes, or sending follow-ups. These repetitive duties are perfect candidates for automation.
By enabling AI to perform low-value, time-consuming activities, business owners can shift their focus to strategic activities that drive growth.
Try this out:
Zapier – A premier automation tool that connects your favorite apps and automates workflows. For instance, when you receive a new lead in one system, Zapier can automatically send a personalized email, update your CRM, and schedule a follow-up — no manual work required.
2. Improve Customer Service
AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants let small businesses support customers 24/7 — even outside business hours. They can handle FAQs, collect contact info, and provide instant responses, improving both accessibility and satisfaction.
However, balance automation with human touch. Always offer an option to reach a live representative for complex or emotional inquiries.
Try this:
Tidio – A user-friendly AI chatbot built for small businesses. It responds to customers’ inquiries right away and integrates with email and social channels. Tidio reports 76% of customers find what they need without being transferred to a human agent.
3. Protect Data with AI Security
Cyber threats are one of the greatest dangers facing small businesses today. AI-powered cybersecurity software can monitor your systems around the clock, spot suspicious activity, and respond more quickly than conventional methods.
Give it a go:
SentinelOne – A comprehensive AI-driven cybersecurity solution that detects and eliminates threats such as malware, phishing, and data breaches in real time, assisting in the protection of sensitive business and customer data.
4. Leverage AI Insights to Sharpen Business Strategy
Coming up with a good business strategy can be a shot in the dark — at least at first. AI analytics software can help by revealing trends, patterns, and opportunities within your data.
That said, don’t leave strategic decision-making to AI. Combine its analytical power with human know-how and direction.
Pro Tip:
Before investing heavily in AI tools, enter an accelerator like the UC Venture Lab, where mentors will map your strategy to growth powered by technology.
5. Create and Optimize Digital Content
AI has become an essential helper for entrepreneurs who need to produce quality content in a short time. Whether writing blog posts, designing visuals, or managing social media, AI tools can notably reduce time-to-market.
Just remember: AI isn’t foolproof. Always proofread, fact-check, and personalize outputs before publishing.
Try these out:
Grammarly – Great for editing and refining website copy, marketing emails, or blog posts. It checks for grammar, tone, and clarity.
Sprout Social – Simplifies social media management with AI-driven scheduling, engagement tracking, and content recommendations to enhance performance.
6. Be Aware of AI Dangers
AI can unlock enormous potential — but it also brings new responsibilities. Before integrating it deeply into your operations, be mindful of the following risks:
Maintain customer trust: AI can “hallucinate” or generate inaccurate information. Always verify what it produces.
Protect privacy: Avoid entering sensitive or proprietary data into public AI systems, as that information may be stored or reused.
Respect intellectual property: AI models tend to replicate existing creative works. Ensure all generated content is compliant with copyright.
Previous blog: How Leaders Can Maximize Employee Productivity and Morale Remotely
The Bottom Line
AI can be revolutionary for small businesses — when used responsibly. UC’s 1819 Innovation Hub entrepreneurs show us how startups can apply AI wisely: to automate mundane tasks, elevate customer experience, safeguard data, and make better-informed business decisions.
With the right balance of innovation and caution, AI is not just a competitive advantage — it’s a game-changer for small businesses ready to grow smarter, faster, and stronger.
We are Talentus Global: a global company that provides US companies with reliable IT services, near-shore talent, and digital support to meet their needs.
