🌟 Editor's Note

In this Issue: This quick checklist provides artisans with practical steps to leverage free AI tools for effective marketing. It highlights essential actions, starting with defining clear marketing goals and selecting user-friendly AI tools like Gemini for Gmail, ChatGPT, Canva, Lumen5, and Mailchimp.

Artisans are guided through gathering relevant information, brainstorming content ideas, and creating drafts tailored to their unique voice. The checklist emphasizes personalization, SEO optimization, and visual content creation, along with strategies for publishing and sharing. Finally, it encourages continuous learning and connection with fellow artisans to enhance marketing efforts. This resource aims to empower artisans in navigating AI-driven marketing effectively.

By following these simple steps, anyone can benefit from AI in enhancing their marketing efforts, leading to significant improvements in engagement and sales. This resource aims to empower artisans to effectively navigate AI-driven marketing and realize the considerable benefits it offers. If you have questions, feel free to email [email protected].

And sign up for the Montana Department of Commerce newsletter below!

How Artisan Makers can ACTUALLY use Artificial Intelligence (AI)

As artisan creators in Montana, we understand the unique challenges of promoting our handmade goods while staying true to the heart of our craft. In this digital age, many of us find ourselves grappling with the endless demand for fresh marketing content. While there’s a lively debate regarding the authenticity and value of artificial intelligence (AI) in our creative processes, there are three compelling reasons to consider harnessing its potential.

First, AI can spark inventive ideas tailored to your audience, easing the mental load of brainstorming.
 
Second, it allows for easy edits, ensuring that your voice and vision remain intact before sharing your content with the world.

Lastly, AI can streamline your research efforts by providing crucial insights on trends, market data, pricing strategies, and best practices faster than you can accomplish on your own.

Join us as we delve into how AI can elevate your marketing while preserving the authentic essence of your artisan work. Happy creating!

Quick Checklist for Using AI in Marketing for Artisans

Step 1: Define Goals

• Set clear objectives (e.g., Increase sales by 20%).

Step 2: Choose Free AI Tools

Here are some accessible free AI tools you can use:

• Gemini (Google): Integrated with Gmail, great for generating quick responses and summarizing emails.

  • How to Use: Open Gmail, use the Composer, and ask Gemini to help draft emails or content.

• ChatGPT (Free Version): Ideal for creating blog posts and social media content.

  • How to Use: Sign up at OpenAI, input specific prompts for content generation.

• Canva (Free Version): Excellent for creating visuals and designs.

  • How to Use: Explore templates for social media posts and flyers; utilize Magic Write for text.

  • Canva will also do text to video !

• Mailchimp (Free Tier): Great for email marketing campaigns.

  • How to Use: Use their templates to design newsletters and track open rates.

• The Gemini AI tool includes a free text-to-audio feature that allows users to convert written text into natural-sounding speech. This feature is known for its high-quality audio generation capabilities.

  • How to Use

  • Access Gemini through platforms that support it, such as Google services integrated with your Google account. Input Your Text: Type or paste the text you want to convert. Choose Settings: Adjust the voice, accent, and emotional tone as needed. Listen or Download: Click "Speak It" to hear the audio or save it for later use.

Step 3: Gather Info

• Identify your target audience and interests.

• List top-selling products and their unique features.

• Note common customer questions to address in your content.

Step 4: Brainstorm Content Ideas

• Use specific prompts:

  • “Generate five blog titles about my handmade jewelry, focusing on sustainability.”

  • “List ten social media post ideas for promoting my artisan bread, highlighting ingredient stories.”

Step 5: Create Drafts

• Example prompts:

  • “Write a 300-word blog on the benefits of local materials in crafts, using my experience.”

  • “Create three Instagram captions for my pottery, emphasizing craftsmanship and customer stories.”

Step 6: Edit and Personalize

• Review AI-generated content:

  • Ensure it aligns with your brand voice.

  • Add personal touches, such as anecdotes or specific examples.

  • Ask: “How can I adjust this to reflect my unique style or story?”

Step 7: Optimize for SEO

• Request keywords from the AI related to your niche.

• Ask for SEO suggestions:

  • “Analyze this content and provide SEO improvements.”

Step 8: Visual Content Creation

• Use Canva to request:

  • “Suggest layout ideas for a Facebook post about my artisan soap.”

  • “Create a color palette that represents my brand’s aesthetic.”

Step 9: Publish and Share

• Decide on distribution channels:

  • Social Media: Choose platforms like Instagram (great for visuals), Facebook (wide audience reach), or Pinterest (popular for crafts) to share posts and engage with followers. Consider using scheduled posts for consistency.

  • Website/Blog: Publish longer content such as articles or guides to improve SEO and attract visitors. Regular updates keep the audience engaged.

  • Email Newsletters: Use platforms like Mailchimp to send updates and promotions directly to customers. Personalize emails based on customer interests.

  • Marketplaces: If applicable, share your products on sites like Etsy or Amazon Handmade to reach a wider audience.

  • Events and Craft Fairs: Promote upcoming events both online and offline, using your social media and email lists to drive attendance.

Step 10: Analyze and Adjust

• Track metrics like click-through rates and engagement.

• Reflect on this data to make adjustments for future content.

Step 11: Continuous Learning

• Stay updated on new features in AI tools and industry trends.

• Connect with other artisans for insights and share best practices.

Did You Know? 

The Montana Department of Commerce works with local and statewide partners to support economic growth across Montana. By offering grants, loans and technical assistance, Commerce promotes economic opportunities and administers quality, affordable housing programs. Commerce also aids business development, tourism promotion and public infrastructure planning and improvements. Commerce is dedicated to assisting Montana’s businesses and communities, helping them thrive and build a prosperous future for the entire state.

News | Montana Department of Commerce

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Till next time,

Montana Gateway