Mark Schaefer: How AI Changes Your Customers

Mark Schaefer returns to our show, bringing with him a wealth of insights from his latest book about the sweeping changes AI is bringing to sales and marketing. As part of a global research initiative with 300 futurists, Mark shares his predictions for AI's impact by 2035, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges businesses face, especially those small to medium-sized. We explore how tech giants are seamlessly weaving AI into their strategies and why it's crucial for smaller enterprises to comprehend and act on AI's transformative power to stay relevant and competitive.  Our conversation takes a closer look at AI's role in reshaping marketing strategies and customer engagement. Traditional metrics are giving way to data-driven insights, marking a shift in how businesses connect with consumers. While AI-generated content is becoming more prevalent, we emphasize the irreplaceable value of authentic, human-centric content. The discussion touches on the enduring importance of human creativity and expression, even as AI attempts to replicate empathy and innovation. Personal preferences, it seems, still hold weight against AI's recommendations, underscoring a unique space for human intuition and creativity.  We also investigate the profound implications AI bears on human relationships and business operations. As AI continues to streamline processes, the human element remains vital in building meaningful connections and trust. Through exploring personal branding, community building, and the essence of vulnerability, we highlight the irreplaceable human touch in a world increasingly intertwined with AI technologies. Mark's insights serve as a reminder that while AI may reshape certain aspects of our interactions, the authentic essence of human experience and empathy remains at the core of genuine relationships and successful business endeavors.  Mark W. Schaefer is a globally recognized author, keynote speaker, futurist, and business consultant who blogs at {grow} — one of the top five marketing blogs in the world. He teaches graduate marketing classes at Rutgers University and has written 12 best-selling books. Mark’s new book Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World describes an essential framework for businesses to stand out and be seen in a noisy world. His many global clients include Pfizer, Cisco, P&G, Dell, Adidas, and the US Air Force. He has been a keynote speaker at prestigious events worldwide, including South by Southwest, Marketing Summit Tokyo, and the Institute for International and European Affairs. Mark has appeared as a guest on various media channels, including CNN, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and CBS News.   Quotes:  "AI is not just about technological advancements; it's about how it rewires our brains and influences consumer behavior."   "In a world dominated by AI-generated content, the irreplaceable value of authentic, human-centric content remains."   "The human element is vital in building meaningful connections and trust, even as AI continues to streamline processes."  "While AI can mimic empathy and creativity, genuine human expression holds enduring value."    Links:  Mark’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/markwschaefer/ How AI Changes Your Customers - https://businessesgrow.com/how-ai-changes-your-customers/ Find this episode and all other Sales Lead Dog episodes at https://empellorcrm.com/salesleaddog/