Resources:

Podium: Platform providing AI-powered communication solutions for lead conversion and patient retention. In Touch with Terri listeners get their first month of Podium free. Click Here!
Shannon Blake's Contact: shannon.blake@podium.com, Cell: 801-979-8096
Terri Ross Consulting: Terri Ross Consulting
Patreon: For Terri Ross's business and sales mentorship program, visit Patreon.

About Terri's Guest:

Shannon Blake is the Director of Aesthetic Partnerships at Podium, a company that supports local businesses by providing modern, tech-driven solutions. With a diverse background, Shannon has played a pivotal role in introducing and integrating Podium's capabilities into the aesthetics industry over the past two years. Her mission focuses on assisting aesthetic practices to enhance client communication, streamline operations, and boost revenue through leveraging technology, particularly AI.

Episode Summary:

Welcome to Episode 102 of Season 10, "In Touch With Terri," where Terri Ross sits down with Shannon Blake from Podium to discuss the revolutionary role of artificial intelligence in aesthetics and business growth. As this episode unfolds, listeners dive into the intersection of technology and aesthetics, offering a unique perspective on modern solutions paving the way for success in the industry. With AI as a central theme, learn how future-ready AI technologies can optimize operations, enhance client communication, and transform aesthetic practices.

During this episode, Terri and Shannon explore how Podium is setting itself apart by offering a consolidated platform that redefines patient interaction through AI advancements. From understanding customer expectations to revolutionizing the response time with AI-driven solutions, this episode emphasizes the growing importance of technology in the aesthetics sector. Shannon Blake shares insights into Podium’s system, customizable features, and emphasizes building long-lasting relationships with clients while maintaining excellent service standards. Dive into this engaging conversation to uncover strategies for unlocking potential market growth using AI, text-based communication, and a robust CRM platform tailored for aesthetic practices.

Key Takeaways:

Harnessing AI in Aesthetics: AI is reshaping how aesthetic practices operate, especially in client communication and operational efficiency.
Integrated Communication Platforms: Podium combines phone systems, texting, and CRM functionalities to streamline business operations into a single platform.
The Role of Customer Experience: Enhance client retention and satisfaction with modern, tech-enabled solutions that promise a robust client interaction experience.
Leveraging Tech to Compete: Understand the importance of making businesses "textable" to meet current consumer demands for fast, efficient communication.
Proactive AI Engagement: With potential AI voice features and beyond, the evolution of AI in communication enables 24/7 operations without compromising client satisfaction.

Notable Quotes:

"Text has a 98% open rate. That's the kind of engagement we're aiming for."
"AI facilitates those conversations, which allows your front staff to focus on in-practice relationships."
"Every practice should ask, 'What AI developments do we have access to, and how can they work for us?'"
"If you haven't yet, all of you should be contacting any tech company you work with and asking them, what are they building?"
"Your strike zone client is busy during the day. AI responds when you can't. That's a game-changer."

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