Survey data outlines how SMBs are using AI and the knowledge gap holding them back. Focus on the human element and ethical usage.
AI is changing how SMBs [small to medium-sized businesses] operate—but that doesn’t mean everyone’s ready to jump in. Many small business owners are curious about artificial intelligence, but they’re also skeptical. And more often than not, they’re held back by a simple knowledge gap: they don’t know what tools to use or where to begin.
A recent survey by Network Solutions underscores this tension. While 61% of small business owners said they’re open to using AI, nearly half (47%) cited a lack of knowledge as their primary obstacle. And although most recognize AI’s potential to streamline processes and boost efficiency, only 15% say they currently use it for website management. That gap represents both a challenge and a huge opportunity.
Don’t Fear AI—Use It to Reinforce What Makes You Human
The best way to think about AI is not as a replacement, but as a reinforcer. It’s ideal for repetitive, time-consuming tasks: writing product descriptions, sorting through analytics, managing appointment reminders, and so on. But when it comes to the heart of your business—your voice, your values, your customer relationships—that still depends on you.
The reality is, we’re a long way from AI replacing true human connection. What it can do today is give you more space to focus on those uniquely human elements that no algorithm can replicate.
Instead of asking, “What can AI do for me?” ask, “What can it take off my plate?”
Ethical Use Still Matters
With great power comes great responsibility, and AI is no exception. As businesses start to lean on AI for tasks like customer support or content creation, they must be mindful of transparency and trust. Misuse (whether it’s through deceptive chatbot behavior or poorly fact-checked AI content) can erode the very relationships you’re trying to build.
Ethical AI usage isn’t just a moral concern; it’s a long-term business strategy. Customers will gravitate toward brands that use tech to enhance the human experience, not replace it.
The Future is Smarter, Simpler, and More Context-Aware
Looking ahead, AI will become increasingly intuitive. The days of wrestling with clunky dashboards and complex queries are numbered. Soon, you’ll be able to ask your blogging tools to outline your next three months of blog post topics and write first drafts of each post in your specific brand tone.
AI platforms are evolving to understand brand tone, market goals, and intent. That means small business owners won’t need to master every tool, they’ll simply need to speak their needs clearly and let the tech do the rest.
Start Where You Are: Practical Tips for SMBs
If you’re hesitant to begin using AI, here’s a good place to start: look at the tools you’re already using. Chances are, many of them have built-in AI capabilities. Whether it’s your email marketing platform auto-generating subject lines or your CRM sorting leads based on likelihood to convert, AI may already be working behind the scenes.
Practical next steps:
- Explore built-in AI features in platforms you already use
- Start with small automations, like email responses, analytics summaries, social post drafts
- Use generative AI to brainstorm (not publish), then review, refine, and make it yours
- Stay updated on ethical best practices and customer consent around AI usage
The Myths Holding People Back
The Network Solutions survey also revealed that 32% of small business owners worry AI will replace jobs—and another 25% believe it’s too expensive. Both fears are understandable, but largely unfounded.
AI is most powerful when used as a collaborator, not a replacement. It can help small teams do more with less, without losing their unique voice. And many AI-powered features come bundled into tools you’re already paying for.Bottom line: You don’t have to be an expert. You just have to be open. AI doesn’t require you to abandon your instincts or your authenticity; it’s simply there to help you move faster and smarter.
Quote from Brian: “AI is transforming how we do business and empowering smaller business owners to compete on a more level playing field. It’s inspiring to see entrepreneurs gain confidence and unlock new opportunities that may have once been out of reach.”
About Network Solutions
Network Solutions is the all-in-one provider for domains, websites, hosting, security and online marketing. Backed by top-rated customer support and industry-leading technology, Network Solutions empowers small businesses, entrepreneurs, IT professionals and more to grow their online presence. Founded in 1979, the brand leverages decades of expertise to deliver a seamless, innovative platform that meets customers’ digital needs. Constant innovation fuels one mission: driving business success. Learn more at https://www.networksolutions.com/.
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