Seasonal hiring begins soon

Artificial intelligence (AI) is here, and it’s transforming small businesses. Affordable, easy-to-use AI tools are available today to help businesses automate tasks, improve customer service, and optimize workforce management. Here are 10 ways AI can help you work smarter, not harder.

1. Customer service
AI-powered chatbots like ChatGPT, Drift, and ManyChat can handle FAQs, schedule appointments, and provide real-time support, freeing up time for human employees. EXAMPLE: An auto repair shop could use an AI chatbot to schedule service appointments, answer pricing questions, and provide vehicle maintenance tips. PRO TIP: Use a hybrid chatbot—one that handles basic inquiries but allows customers to connect with a human when needed.

2. Scheduling and employee shift planning
AI-powered scheduling tools like Calendly, Booksy, and When I Work automate appointment bookings and employee scheduling, reducing errors and last-minute changes. EXAMPLE: A medical office can use AI scheduling to automate patient appointments, reducing no-shows with automated reminders. PRO TIP: Use predictive scheduling to anticipate peak hours and optimize staffing accordingly.

3. Recruit the best candidates faster
AI-powered HR tools like Breezy HR, Workable, and HireVue can screen resumes, rank candidates, and even analyze video interviews to speed up the hiring process. EXAMPLE: A restaurant chain looking to hire seasonal employees can use AI-driven screening tools to quickly identify top applicants based on job skills and experience. PRO TIP: AI should assist—not replace—human decision-making. Always combine AI insights with personal interviews.

4. Employee training and development
AI-driven learning platforms like EdApp, Coursera AI, and LinkedIn Learning create personalized training experiences for employees, ensuring they receive targeted skill development. EXAMPLE: A small manufacturing company can use AI training platforms to upskill employees on safety procedures, compliance, and operational best practices. PRO TIP: Use AI-powered coaching tools that provide real-time feedback to improve employee performance.

5. Smarter workforce planning
AI-driven HR analytics tools like Microsoft Power BI, BambooHR, and Gusto help small businesses track workforce trends, reduce turnover, and improve employee engagement. EXAMPLE: A nonprofit can use AI to analyze employee engagement surveys and implement strategies to retain top talent. PRO TIP: Use AI to predict workforce trends, helping you make data-driven HR decisions.

6. Marketing content and social media
AI-powered content creation tools like Jasper, Copy.ai, and Canva’s Magic Write generate blog posts, ad copy, and social media content in seconds. EXAMPLE: A Rockford-based real estate agency could use AI-generated social media posts to market new listings efficiently. PRO TIP: Always review AI-generated content to ensure it reflects your brand’s voice and personality.

7. Employee feedback and performance management
Performance management tools like Lattice, 15Five, and CultureAmp use AI to provide real-time employee feedback, engagement tracking, and performance insights. EXAMPLE: A hospitality business can use AI to track employee performance trends, ensuring top performers are recognized and rewarded. PRO TIP: Use AI for pulse surveys to gauge employee morale and satisfaction in real time.

8. Sales forecasting and business insights
AI-driven analytics tools like Tableau, Google Analytics, and HubSpot AI provide data-driven insights to help businesses predict customer behavior and sales trends. EXAMPLE: A retail store can use AI analytics to determine which products are in high demand and adjust inventory accordingly. PRO TIP: Use AI for predictive sales modeling, helping you make data-backed business decisions.

9. Payroll and HR compliance
AI-powered tools like Gusto, ADP AI, and Paychex Flex ensure accurate payroll processing, tax compliance, and benefits management. EXAMPLE: A construction company can use AI-powered payroll tools to automatically calculate overtime pay and ensure labor law compliance. PRO TIP: AI can flag potential compliance risks, ensuring businesses stay ahead of HR regulations.

10. Personalized customer experiences
AI can analyze customer preferences, past purchases, and browsing behavior to provide personalized recommendations through tools like Amazon AI, Pipedrive, and Shopify AI. EXAMPLE: A boutique can use AI-powered product recommendations to suggest clothing styles based on customer preferences. PRO TIP: AI-driven email personalization boosts customer engagement and loyalty.

By implementing even one or two AI-powered tools, small businesses can gain a competitive edge and future-proof their operations. The future isn’t about AI replacing jobs—it’s about AI enhancing business success. The only question is: How will you use AI to grow your business?

The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.