Getting new customers can be a headache for small businesses. As a small business owner, you may be ready to try artificial intelligence (AI) but are not quite sure where to start. How about starting here: learn how AI prompts can get you new customers.
We’re diving into five cutting-edge AI prompts designed to supercharge your small business sales. From personalized pitches to smart lead generation, let’s explore how AI can transform your sales game and give you that competitive edge you’ve been looking for.
What we’ll cover:
- What is an AI prompt?
- The importance of AI for small business sales
- 1. Lead generation prompt
- 2. Sales email drafting prompt
- 3. Customer follow-up prompt
- 4. Sales pitch script prompt
- 5. Objection handling prompt
- With these AI prompts for SMB sales, you’re already ahead
What is an AI prompt?
An AI prompt is a specific instruction or question given to an AI system or tool to trigger actions or responses. It serves as the initial query that sets the stage for the AI to perform the task. The more specific the prompt, the better the results. For instance, AI prompts for small business sales can include crafting emails that get higher click-through rates, creating the perfect sales pitch, summarizing customer interactions, or answering a sales objection.
Start with SMB Basics
The importance of AI for small business sales
AI is crucial for small business sales — as well as enterprise — offering insights into customer behavior, and allowing for better product tailoring. AI for SMBs is quite different than enterprise, as you start out; automating routine tasks, giving sales teams more time to build relationships and close deals. It also provides real-time data and predictions, aiding in smart decision-making.
And, customer relationship management (CRM) is the number one tool to begin with, which works solely for the expansion and growth of small businesses. When your CRM is combined with AI, you get the best of both worlds: customer data, predictive AI, and generative AI. For instance, SMBs using Salesforce AI observed 30% more revenue, 29% faster case resolution, and a 30% increase in conversion. In today’s competitive market, using AI is essential for small businesses to succeed.
Let’s compare AI prompts to traditional sales methods:
1. Lead generation prompt
Objective: Generate potential leads for your business.
AI prompt: “Identify and list 10 potential leads for our small business based on the following criteria: [insert criteria such as industry, location, company size, etc.].”
How does it help: This prompt will help you to see AI’s data analysis capabilities to identify potential customers fitting your ideal profile. For example, if you’re a software company targeting healthcare providers, use “healthcare providers in California with 50-200 employees.” This targeted approach can save time and increase the likelihood of successful outreach. Having a lead list of your potential customers by your side helps you optimize marketing efforts effectively.
Example output:
- Healthtech Innovations – California – 150 employees
- Wellness Solutions Inc. – California – 75 employees
- Medicare Providers – California – 120 employees
2. Sales email drafting prompt
Objective: Create a compelling sales email that drives click rate.
AI prompt: “Draft a sales email to [target customer/company] highlighting the benefits of our [product/service] and encouraging them to schedule a demo.”
How does it help: Writing personalized emails requires time and effort. This AI prompt can rescue you by generating content that resonates with your target audience, focuses on their needs, and how your product or service offers unique value propositions. This prompt saves time and ensures that your emails are tailored and relevant.
Example output:
Subject: Transform your operations with our innovative CRM
Hi [First Name],
Nice to connect with you. I noticed we are in the same [industry] and you’re growing fast.
I believe our CRM could significantly enhance your operations at [Business]. With features designed specifically for [pain points], we can help you streamline processes and boost efficiency.
I’d love to show you how it all works. Are you open for a quick demo this week?
Looking forward to it,
[Your Name]
3. Customer follow-up prompt
Objective: Craft a follow-up message for existing leads.
AI prompt: “Write a follow-up email to [customer name] who expressed interest in our [product/service] during our last meeting. Include a gentle reminder and any new information that might be relevant.”
How does it help: To maintain engagement with leads, following up is essential, but it can be challenging to find the right words. Using this prompt ensures that your communication remains professional and friendly. And, provides valuable updates that could sway the customer toward making a decision and keep your product top-of-mind without being pushy. This approach fosters relationships and open communication.
Example output:
Subject: Quick follow-up
Hi [First Name],
I wanted to follow up on our last chat regarding [product/service]. Have you had a chance to think about how it could benefit your team?
Also, we recently released an update that includes [new feature], which could be really beneficial for you.
Let me know if you’d like to connect on this further.
Thanks,
[Your Name]
4. Sales pitch script prompt
Objective: Develop a persuasive sales pitch.
AI prompt: “Create a 2-minute sales pitch script for our [product/service] that can be used during cold calls or in-person meetings. Focus on the key benefits and unique selling points.”
How does it help: A pitch can make or break your sales pipeline. If it’s weak, you lose the customer. But if you structure your pitch in a concise yet impactful script that highlights what sets your product apart from competitors, it’s easy to capture interest. This script ensures that you communicate effectively while maintaining engagement with your audience.
Example output:
“Hello! My name is [Your Name] from [Company Name].
We specialize in [brief overview of product/service]. One key aspect that sets us apart is [unique selling point]. Our solution has helped businesses like yours achieve [specific results or benefits].
Interested in learning how we can support your goals?”
Thank you for your time.
[Your Name]
5. Objection handling prompt
Objective: Respond to common sales objections of potential customers.
AI prompt: “List two common objections that potential customers might have about our [product/service] and provide a persuasive response for each one.”
How does it help: Handling objections smoothly is key to closing deals. This prompt helps anticipate issues and prepare for good responses. So, sales teams can lead conversations confidently and convincingly, reassuring potential customers. By preparing responses ahead of time, sales teams can navigate conversations more confidently.
Example output:
- Objection: “It’s too expensive.”
Response: “Let’s work with your budget. Our clients find that our solution pays for itself within months simply by efficiency alone.” - Objection: “We’re happy with our current solution.”
Response: “That’s good to hear. Many of our clients felt the same way until they discovered how much more efficient they could be with our features.”
With these AI prompts for SMB sales, you’re already ahead
Using AI prompts for small business sales for your benefit is too easy not to try out for yourself. If you’re not utilizing AI to scale your business, your growth might be the cost. You’re missing out on key factors that contribute significantly to boosting sales performance — efficiency, personalization, and insights. As more businesses recognize the potential of AI in their operations, those who adapt quickly will likely outpace their competitors in this marketplace.
Find the right CRM tool that works best for you, and we’re here for you every step of the way. Try out Salesforce Starter and use AI prompts for your sales teams today with Agentforce.
AI supported the writers who created this article.
