Every so often, transformative technology emerges that revolutionizes how you work and sets your business apart from the competition. Artificial intelligence (AI) is not just the latest trend; it is powerful tools that can elevate your customer service to exceptional new heights. In today's fast-paced market, outstanding customer service isn't just an advantage; it's a necessity for survival and growth. Businesses that exceed customer expectations consistently thrive, while those that fall short risk being left behind. If you haven't already reimagined your customer service or expanded the ways consumers can reach you, now is the perfect moment to take action and unlock the full potential of your business.

Before the rise of the internet, most customer service happened over the phone. The phone is still important, but now websites offer many ways to help customers, like placing orders, getting support after a sale, handling billing and payments, and sharing news about your business. New technology adds even more options, such as online chat, help forums, appointment setting, and videos that show off your products and services.

Besides your website, smartphone apps are another popular way to connect with customers. Apps can be used by customers to place orders, ask for help, or check their account details. AI is now joining this mix and is worth considering. For example, you can add an AI assistant to your app to answer common questions, help with orders, schedule service calls, or handle returns and refunds. Creating an app helps your customers and improves your brand's service. Adding more features to your app over time makes your customer service even better; in addition, helps control your costs by reducing the need for extra staff to answer phone calls, emails, and other communication channels.

It's smart to explore different ways to promote your business and handle customer requests. Some consumers prefer to send emails when asking questions or seeking support. An AI email tool can answer standard emails quickly thus providing customers with a high level of service. Think in these terms: if you are the first response for a sales question by email, you become the front runner when the consumer is deciding who to buy from. What business does not value having extra sales reps that work around the clock helping you sell. How many times have you sent a business an email asking a sales question and never receive a response?

Text messaging is another option worth considering. Many customers find it easier to send a quick text when they have a sales or support question. With some research, you can set up a text messaging system to reach more people. Today’s AI tools can respond in a way that feels natural, and if someone needs extra help, a real person can step in. Adding text messaging lets you connect with more customers without overloading your team. One way you can increase sales through the use of text messaging is when a sales question comes in, AI can match a product that you sell on your website and send them a link. Another way to offer great customer service is having AI set an appointment for you to demo a product or service, or make an appointment to come into an office based on the type of business you operate.

Next, let's briefly discuss your business data. Customer service involves assisting customers in finding the products they seek at competitive prices. Your business generates various forms of data. With AI tools, you can utilize this data beyond maintaining tax records. AI tools can identify patterns in buying habits. For example, when a consumer makes a purchase, your website or sales team can access information about other products that customers are inclined to buy alongside the initial purchase. With these insights, your website and sales team can make informed suggestions, which can increase sales over time while offering customers valuable convenience. Additionally, an AI tool can track pricing trends, helping answer questions such as how many units are sold at a specific price, how sales volumes change with discounts, and where your business is most profitable.

Some products are called consumables because customers need to buy them repeatedly. The same goes for certain services that must be provided on a regular basis. With AI, you can use data to figure out which customers to reach out to for more products or service calls. Repeat business can look different depending on your industry, but good customer service means helping your customers get what they need when they need it. By using new technology instead of relying only on intuition, you increase the level of service you offer.

Lastly, let’s look at other ways AI will help you with your business. If you look online for AI video ads, you'll find companies offering AI-made avatar videos that you can personalize with your own message. This allows you to create engaging, relevant content that makes customers feel valued and more likely to stay connected with your brand. A good way to stay in front of your customers is to ask your customers if they want to be informed of similar products or new products that are in line with what they are buying. Your marketing team can use this information to create quick promotional videos showing off items that may match their interests and send them out to people who have already indicated interest. With AI, you can deliver personalized updates and recommendations, making it easier for customers to discover products they care about and improving their overall experience with your company.

Corporation Associates offers tailored support to help you leverage new technology for your business. With Consulting On-Demand, our Associates provide expert guidance on your current business state, growth opportunities, and strategies to integrate AI into your plans. Exceed Interactive specializes in designing and developing a website suited to your brand and operational needs. If you're considering mobile solutions, we can create an app customized for your business model. Corporation Associates Technology and Security evaluates ways to apply AI in daily operations and offers actionable steps for successful adoption. Connect with us to find out how we can support your transformation.