is AI making people go nuts?

Just yesterday, we saw a post on Reddit. A person asked; Is AI going too fast or am I slow? And quite frankly, we can agree.

Let’s be honest—AI tools are popping up faster than we can keep track. From analytics to image and video creation, content writing, customer service, and beyond, there’s now an AI solution for just about everything. And while some professionals are diving in headfirst, others are still testing the waters—or avoiding them altogether.

We get it. Adopting new tech can feel overwhelming, especially when you hear mixed stories. Some businesses are thriving with AI, streamlining their workflows and saving hours each week. Others? Well, let’s just say not every experiment ends in success (we’ve heard a few horror stories ourselves). But if you haven’t tried AI yet, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not behind. The key is knowing where to start, and choosing tools that actually make your life easier, not harder.

One of the biggest frustrations? Website traffic is dropping, and no one can quite pinpoint why. Traditional SEO strategies that used to work like clockwork are now struggling to deliver results. That’s largely because AI-powered search engines—like Google’s Search Generative Experience (SGE) and tools like ChatGPT—are serving up instant answers right on the results page, meaning users never even click through to your site.

Add to that the flood of AI-generated content, which has saturated the web with repetitive, low-quality material. Standing out in this sea of sameness is harder than ever. And let’s not forget the rise of zero-click searches, where users get what they need without ever leaving the search engine.

Marketers are also grappling with:

• Constant algorithm updates
• Shifting consumer behavior and trust issues
• The need for deeper personalisation and authenticity
• A growing demand for video and interactive content

It’s no wonder many feel like they’re throwing darts in the dark. But the key isn’t to panic—it’s to pivot. Diversifying traffic sources, leaning into email marketing, and creating genuinely useful, human-first content are now more important than ever.

Let’s be real—running a small business is already tough. You’re wearing every hat: sales, customer service, admin, and yes, marketing. Now throw in the whirlwind of AI tools, shifting algorithms, and disappearing website traffic, and it’s enough to make anyone want to unplug.

But here’s the thing: you don’t need to be everywhere—you just need to be visible where it counts.

Start With the Basics That Still Work

• Update your Google Business Profile regularly
  This is still one of the most powerful tools for local visibility. Add fresh photos, respond to reviews, and post updates. It’s free, fast, and helps you show up in local search results.
• Use social media to build trust, not just sell
  You don’t need to post daily. A few authentic updates each week—behind-the-scenes shots, customer shoutouts, or quick tips—can go a long way. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and even TikTok are great for showing your personality and connecting with your audience.
• Lean into email marketing (if you can)
  It’s still one of the highest ROI channels. Use tools like Mailchimp or Brevo to send simple newsletters, offers, or updates. You own your email list—unlike social media followers.

You don’t need a full marketing team. With the right AI tools, you can automate and simplify your efforts:

• Use ChatGPT or Copilot to write blog posts, captions, and emails in minutes.
• Try Canva’s AI features to design social graphics without needing a designer.
• Schedule posts with Meta Business Suite so you’re not glued to your phone.

With voice search and AI-driven search results on the rise, make sure your website and content use natural, question-based phrases like:

• “Best plumber near Penrith”
• “How to fix a leaking tap”
• “Affordable bookkeeping for sole traders”

These help you show up in Search Generative Experiences (SGE) and voice searches, where users are looking for quick, relevant answers. We know that all of this still might seem too much, and we don’t disagree. We’re happy to chat with you and help understand what will work for you and your business, so give us a shout, we won’t bite.

Yes, things are changing fast. But small businesses aren’t being left behind—you’ve been given tools to compete smarter. By showing up consistently on Google, sharing real moments on social media, and using AI to lighten the load, sole traders and entrepreneurs can stay visible, relevant, and connected.

You don’t need a full marketing department. You just need a smart strategy, a few great tools, and a little help along the way.

Let us juggle the world of crazy AI and constant changes what comes with it, reach out to us for a free consultation, so we can start the ball rolling.