Hi Reader,

I'm taking a break from all the logistics related to real estate and moving because, frankly, I'm alarmed.

Last week, Delta Airlines announced it will be utilizing AI to set airfare prices based on individual behavior and habits of their prospective customers.

This means that the person sitting next to you on your next Delta flight might have paid significantly more or less than you not because they booked early or splurged for the window or aisle, but because of who they are, how they shop, how often they fly, etc.

Yeah, it's as creepy and seemingly unethical as it sounds.

But, you can bet that if Delta claims it's increasing profits for them, the other airlines will follow suit and other sectors won't be far behind.

It reminds me of the time I got offered my very first job at a prestigious advertising agency after graduating college. The position was the same as a male friend of mine's who'd started working there the week before. They offered me $500 less than him and were not willing to increase my pay to meet his salary.

Of course, I didn't take the job, but I never forgot that experience and when I was further along in my career, I refused to bid out jobs to that company whenever I had the chance.

Just like that experience, this reeks of discrimination, only dressed up to sound like progress, and reminds me of the AI-driven dynamic pricing strategy supermarkets floated last year.

I'm not gonna lie, it's all beginning to feel like a dystopian society that ends up as the broken civilization depicted within a Cormac McCarthy novel.

But here's a little good news...

Now more than ever, I'm convinced an undeniable power play for small businesses is going to be a focus on real, human customer experience and support and a level of honesty and transparency that AI just can't manage and that companies employing AI in these ways don't seem to care about.

Does AI have its place in helping you achieve greater efficiency and supporting growth and scalability? Absolutely.

But it's about leveraging AI to support you without compromising your values, ethics, or reputation in the process.

I know I can't be the only one giving all these new AI applications some side-eye even as I find new ways to incorporate the technology for my and my community's benefit.

Here are three questions to ask yourself whenever you're thinking of adding AI to your business strategy:

1. How will this impact my prospect's/customer's experience at each stage of our relationship?
2. How will this help me create more opportunity for me and/or for my customers/clients?
3. What is the real cost savings and are there any tradeoffs in quality or meaningful connection?

If you're struggling to fit AI or human touch into your strategy, reach out to me. I'd love to help you.

Until next time...stay cool and stay focused on what your customers truly value when doing business with you.

PS -If you missed it, last month I was Movin' On Up on my own terms.
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​ Lauren is a true gem. Her realistic approach to business is something every owner needs to elevate their business to the next level. She's such an amazing coach! Elesia Forgie, Owner, Sunflower Laundromat Elevate YOUR business TODAY!

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