Work Smarter, Not Harder: AI-Powered Strategies to Save Time & Grow Your Business
I recently led a workshop on leveraging AI—particularly ChatGPT—to enhance business efficiency. My goal was to help service-based business owners discover practical, time-saving strategies that could transform their workflows. One of the biggest takeaways? AI has the potential to save you 5-20 hours per week by automating repetitive tasks and streamlining operations. But it's not just about saving time—it’s about freeing yourself to focus on the work that truly matters.
One participant, Suzanne Carver, perfectly summed up the impact of the workshop when she said:
"I am TRANSFORMED. That was the very best $27 I’ve ever spent! I can’t thank you enough!"
Hearing this kind of feedback reinforces just how powerful AI can be when used effectively.
The Power of AI: Key Takeaways from the Workshop
Throughout the workshop, participants shared how they were already using ChatGPT in their businesses, from drafting emails to brainstorming content ideas. However, many had yet to explore deeper applications that could unlock even greater efficiency. Together, we explored new ways to optimize workflows, integrate AI tools, and customize ChatGPT for maximum impact.
Real-World Applications: How Participants Are Using ChatGPT
During our discussion, participants highlighted some of their favorite ChatGPT applications, including:
Email Communication Templates: Streamlining client responses and follow-ups.
Content Generation: Writing blog posts, social media captions, and newsletters.
Research and Information Gathering: Quickly summarizing reports and analyzing trends.
Marketing Content Creation: Drafting compelling ad copy and promotional materials.
Project Planning & Task Management: Breaking large projects into manageable steps and setting deadlines.
While these were great starting points, we dove even deeper into advanced uses that could supercharge efficiency.
Advanced AI Strategies: The Biggest Aha Moments
One of the most exciting moments came when I demonstrated how ChatGPT can draft professional emails in seconds, complete with personalization and automation. I also introduced the concept of integrating ChatGPT with email systems using Zapier, allowing AI to handle appointment coordination, scheduling, and client communication seamlessly.
Participants were particularly excited about:
Creating and Managing GPTs for Repetitive Tasks: Customizing AI responses for consistency and accuracy.
Using ChatGPT for FAQs and Customer Service: Automating responses while maintaining a personal touch.
Leveraging AI for Proposals, Contracts, and Business Documents: Generating high-quality drafts in minutes.
Breaking Down Large Projects into Manageable Steps: Structuring to-do lists and streamlining execution.
For many, these insights were game-changers. They realized that AI wasn’t just a helpful assistant—it was a scalable tool that could be tailored to their specific needs.
Making AI Work for You: Practical Implementation Tips
To get the most out of AI, I emphasized a few key strategies:
Create a Brand Voice Template – Ensure AI-generated content aligns with your unique messaging.
Use ChatGPT for Drafting & Refining – Let AI generate first drafts of emails, reports, and marketing copy, then fine-tune as needed.
Experiment with Projects & Custom GPTs – Organize information efficiently and automate recurring tasks.
Integrate AI into Daily Workflows – Start small and build AI-powered habits that genuinely save time.
Your Next Steps: Turning Insight into Action
The best way to integrate AI into your business is to start experimenting. I challenged participants to dedicate just 10 minutes a day to trying new ChatGPT strategies and exploring AI’s potential.
Here’s what you can do right now:
✅ Try out at least one new ChatGPT strategy for 10 minutes per day.
✅ Book a 30-minute strategy session with me to dive deeper into integrating AI into your business: https://scheduler.zoom.us/christine-hakkola/hakkola-horizons-strategy-session.
✅ Get your 1-hour workshop recording + 32-page guidebook to help you save 5-20 hours per week: https://www.hakkolahorizons.com/store/p/chatgpt-for-business-efficiency-recording-guidebook
"You could make a living charging $1000 per person to come to this workshop! You really are bringing so much information… you are unbelievably capable and I’m so appreciative." ~Marion Syverson
By treating AI as a collaborative tool, you’ll start to discover new levels of efficiency, creativity, and growth!
