AI Automation
- 8 min read
What are the types of AI (narrow vs general)?
You’ve heard the AI buzz. But what kind of 'intelligence' are we really dealing with? Here’s the difference between Narrow and General AI—and what that means for your business.
You’ve probably heard some version of this pitch:
“AI is the future. Don’t get left behind.”
Cool. But what does that actually mean when you’re staring at your tenth browser tab, wondering how to fix your workflows, clean up your lead pipeline, or make your team stop muttering, “who owns this task?”
Enter: AI consulting.
Not as in “buy this overhyped robot,” but as in let’s make your business run smoother using tools that actually fit your goals.
This post breaks down what AI consulting really is, why it matters, and how to know if you’re ready to bring in a consultant (spoiler: you don’t need to be Google).
Here’s what actually matters.
At its core, AI consulting is about translating complex tech into real business results.
Think of an AI consultant as a bilingual interpreter—fluent in “machine learning speak” and “we’re drowning in admin tasks.” They work with businesses to figure out:
They don’t just throw fancy tools at you and walk away. They design a strategy, lead the implementation, train your people, and stick around to make sure it works. That’s the difference between AI consulting and just… buying software you never use.
Let’s be honest: Most businesses don’t need a 50-page AI roadmap. They need relief—from clunky systems, repetitive work, and “we’ve always done it this way” inertia.
Here’s where a good AI consultant can be a game-changer:
According to McKinsey, by 2025, AI agents will be autonomously managing workflows, payments, and even decision-making in some orgs. You don’t need to go that far—but you do need a plan for integrating AI before your competitors leave you in the dust.
Key takeaway: AI consulting isn’t just about technology—it’s about strategy. And smaller teams often get the biggest wins because they can move faster.
So, what does it actually look like in action? Here are a few examples of what AI consulting can do for businesses like yours:
Of course, this only works if you do it right. So let’s talk about what not to do.
AI is buzzy, which means a lot of bad advice is floating around. Watch out for:
Pro tip: If a consultant promises to “revolutionize your business overnight,” run. Real AI integration takes strategy, testing, and iteration—not magic.
If you’re reading this thinking, “Okay but what would this actually look like for me?”—you’re not alone. Most folks don’t need a massive transformation. They need one or two targeted wins that free up time, cut costs, or reduce chaos.
So here’s what I’d suggest:
That’s where AI consulting comes in. And that’s literally what we do.
If you’re tired of duct-taping your business together with half-baked tools and endless task lists, let’s talk.
Book a Workflow Optimization Session and we’ll map out what’s working, what’s not, and where AI can give you real leverage—without the overwhelm.
This isn’t about chasing shiny objects. It’s about getting your time, clarity, and team energy back.
River Braun founder of Timebender, is an AI consultant and systems strategist with 10+ years of experience helping service businesses streamline operations and embrace automation.
Schedule a Timebender Workflow Audit today and get a custom roadmap to run leaner, grow faster, and finally get your weekends back.
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