AI is no longer something just for big businesses.
It’s quickly becoming one of the most useful tools small businesses can use to save time, improve marketing, and work more efficiently.
At ActionCOACH Bury St Edmunds, we’ve been exploring how AI can support our own marketing. As a small team, tools like ChatGPT, Copy.ii and other AI assistants have helped us streamline tasks, generate ideas, and stay consistent.
Used well, AI doesn’t replace your marketing. It strengthens it.
Why AI is a game changer for small businesses
AI gives small businesses access to tools that were once only available to larger organisations.
It can help you:
- Automate repetitive tasks
- Generate content ideas quickly
- Improve customer targeting
- and make better decisions using data
The result? More time to focus on strategy, growth, and your customers.
How to get better results from AI
AI is only as good as the input you give it.
The more specific you are, the better the output.
A simple rule we use:
👉 Always tell the AI:
- Who your audience is
- What you’re trying to achieve
- and the tone you want to use
And a great final line to include in your prompts:
“What additional information do you need from me to improve this?”
Practical ways to use AI in your marketing
Here are a few simple ways to get started:
Marketing strategy
“Create a 3-month marketing plan focused on generating [X] leads from [target audience].”
Content ideas
“Give me 5 blog topics that would appeal to [your audience] struggling with [problem].”
Social media
“Write a LinkedIn post promoting [event/service] in a professional but conversational tone.”
Email campaigns
“Create a short email sequence to re-engage inactive contacts.”
You don’t need to overcomplicate it. Start simple and build from there.
How we use AI at ActionCOACH Bury St Edmunds
One of the most useful ways we’ve used AI is refining our target personas.
When planning campaigns or programmes, AI has helped us:
- Identify common challenges business owners face
- Clarify messaging
- and generate ideas we may not have considered
It’s helped us work faster, but also think more clearly.
Useful AI tools to explore
If you’re just getting started, these Ai tools are worth a look:
- ChatGPT: content ideas, copywriting, and refining messaging
- Copy.ai: headlines, social posts, and content generation
- HubSpot: AI-powered CRM, emails, and automation
- Grammarly: AI-powered writing and clarity tools
- Canva AI: quick design and visual content creation
Most offer free versions, so you can test them before committing.
The benefits of using AI in marketing
Used well, AI can:
- Save time on repetitive tasks
- Improve consistency in your marketing
- Help personalise your messaging
- Support creativity when you’re stuck
For small businesses, that can make a big difference.
What to watch out for
AI is powerful, but it’s not perfect.
A few things to keep in mind:
Keep your human touch
People buy from people. AI should support your communication, not replace it.
Protect your brand tone
Always review and refine content so it sounds like you.
Check accuracy
AI can get things wrong. Always sense check important information.
Be mindful of data
Make sure you’re handling customer data in line with GDPR and best practice.
Final thoughts
AI isn’t about replacing what you do.
It’s about helping you do it better, faster, and more consistently.
The businesses that get the most value from AI are the ones that use it as a tool, not a shortcut.
If you’re thinking about how AI can support your time and productivity as well as your marketing, you might also find this useful:
👉 What does artificial intelligence mean for your time management?
Next steps
If you’re looking to improve your marketing but aren’t sure where to focus, a short conversation can help you identify what’s working, what’s not, and where AI could support your growth.
ActionCOACH Bury St Edmunds, Freedom House, House Suite 3, 5 Abbeyfields, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1AQ
01284 334099 contactbse@actioncoach.co.uk