How AI is used in marketing: practical steps
Many Azerbaijani businesses are trying to grow their customer base in the digital world. But the question of how artificial intelligence (AI) is used in marketing still seems confusing. Here we explain, with real examples, how you can apply this technology in your business step by step.
1. Customer segmentation and targeting
AI algorithms can analyse customer data and group customers by buying habits, demographics and behaviour. For example, an online clothing store operating in Azerbaijan achieved almost 35% higher conversion in its Facebook and Instagram ad campaigns with an AI-based targeting system.
At this stage:
- Collect customer data (age, gender, purchase history).
- Upload it to an AI tool (for example, automatic targeting in Meta Business Suite).
- Create different ad messages for each segment.
2. Automated content creation
AI can offer suggestions for social media posts, ad headlines and email campaigns. One local SMM agency in Azerbaijan has sped up its monthly post preparation by up to 60% with an AI assistant. This also keeps the quality of the content consistent.
Steps:
- Define the main topics for social media.
- Use AI-based content creation software.
- Edit the content it produces and publish it.
3. Chatbots and customer support
AI chatbots answer customer questions 24/7 and so reduce staffing costs. For example, e-commerce sites in Azerbaijan have cut their response time to enquiries from 4 hours to 2 minutes since they started using chatbots.
How to put this into practice:
- Choose a chatbot platform (for example, ManyChat or Chatfuel).
- Prepare scripts for users' questions.
- Integrate it into your website or social media page.
4. Optimising ad campaigns
AI helps you manage your ad budget efficiently. Companies in Azerbaijan with an average digital ad budget of 1,500–3,000 AZN (manat) a month have been able to cut their ad spend by 15–25% thanks to AI tools.
Step by step:
- Switch on the AI suggestions in your ad account.
- Adjust your budget settings based on performance metrics.
- Make the changes the AI recommends.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need special software to use AI in marketing?
Yes. AI-based marketing uses Meta Business Suite, the AI features in Google Ads or chatbot platforms such as ManyChat. These tools are user-friendly and adapted to the main market conditions.
How much do AI marketing services cost in Azerbaijan?
Prices vary with the type of service. For example, automation and AI chatbots may cost 500–1,500 AZN a month, while SMM and content management may cost between 800 and 2,500 AZN.
Can AI completely replace the human factor in marketing?
No. AI doesn't fully replace people; it simply speeds up the work and makes it more effective. For example, the final edit of the content and building the campaign strategy are still down to professionals.
How can a small business get started with AI marketing?
For small businesses, the first step is to gather the data you already have and start AI-based targeting on a small budget. Drawing on the experience of local agencies is recommended.
Conclusion and next steps
As for how AI is used in marketing, the important thing is to introduce the technology in stages. At Advertol, we provide digital marketing, SMM, website, landing page and AI-based automation services in Azerbaijan. If you want to build a dedicated AI strategy for your business, get in touch with us. We will offer you real results and localised solutions.