Do you feel like you’re talking to bots far more than you are to humans?  I know I do.

Between the auto-generated emails, auto-responders, auto-follow-ups, auto-nudges and auto-payment solutions, not to mention completely self-service brands whose websites charge a “convenience fee” for you to engage with them, QR codes to register, park or eat, web chats and so much more, the only human component to the equation is you.

We are watching AI replace actors, voiceovers, and writers and I listened to a Porter Stansberry interview as he predicted that white collar pros like lawyers and accountants will also be made redundant in the not-too-distant future thanks to AI.

As a business developer you recognize how AI can aid in outreach, be an ideal tool to analyze customer interactions, provide timely engagement (like remember a birthday or when it’s time for a repeat order) and offer predictive tools to anticipate customers’ needs but can you truly create an emotional connection to your brand exclusively with bot to human?

Aha! ~ Replace “transaction” with “experience”.

When you consider that your customer relationship is a journey, not a one-off deal, you replace your intent to sell with a goal to understand the emotional triggers behind their needs and wants and provide solutions that match.  Understand that beyond our basic need for safety, food and shelter, our next need it to be heard, to feel valued and to love and be loved.

Transactions are short-lived and not necessarily loyalty-builders.

Ease and efficiency show that you respect your customers’ time and AI can aid with that which frees up quality time for the intelligent and compassionate side of your sales equation.  What you are aiming for is loyal ambassadors.

Give people personalized options to transact.  Use your voice (as opposed to text) more often.  Listen to your customers when they share concerns or praises and respond accordingly. Remember that you are dealing with a human being not a customer number.  Look for opportunities to foster real connections. Create a warm and unforgettable experience always and all ways.

Customers need hugs, too. 

This Aha! was inspired by regular providers who are polar opposites.  Some hide behind AI without personal responsibility and others use tech as a tool to enhance the experience their wonderful people provide.  Remember that we are not slaves to technology, technology is our servant.  Dive into A Human Approach membership and become more.