What You Don’t Know

7 Questions You Have About Artificial Intelligence (But Are Afraid To Ask)

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7 Questions You Have About Artificial Intelligence (But Are Afraid To Ask)

“AI” or Artificial Intelligence are the buzz words encapsulating every industry in ways most people don’t understand, though many are afraid to admit that. Even the ones promoting its use and integration into every aspect of our daily lives don’t quite “get it”. We’re still in the “wait-and-see era” of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning taking over and turning things into a real iRobot situation (like the 2004 movie with Will Smith), so in the interim, let’s explore the 7 Questions You Have About Artificial Intelligence (But Were Afraid To Ask):

1. What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

In a nutshell, “Artificial Intelligence” (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines and systems that are programmed to think and learn like humans. Artificial Intelligence systems can perform a range of tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as reasoning, problem-solving, decision-making, visual perception, speech recognition, recognizing patterns, and language translation. AI technologies are designed to simulate human cognitive processes, allowing them to learn from experience and adapt to new information.

2. How Does Artificial Intelligence (AI) Work?

The simplified answer: Artificial Intelligence works by using large amounts of data and sophisticated algorithms to mimic human-like thinking and decision-making. AI learns things in a similar way that we do, but much faster and on a larger scale. It takes vast amounts of information (from the web and other sources like our smart devices), then processes it to identify patterns and make connections. For example, an AI system might analyze millions of photos of bananas to learn what makes a banana look like a banana. Once the system is trained, it can then recognize bananas in new images it hasn’t seen before. This ability to learn from data and apply that knowledge to new situations is what makes AI powerful, hence “intelligent”. It can then use this learned knowledge to make predictions, solve problems, or perform tasks, all without being explicitly programmed for each specific scenario.

3. What Are The Risks Associated With Using Artificial Intelligence?

Artificial intelligence, while offering many benefits, also comes with several risks that we need to be aware of. One major concern is privacy: AI systems often require large amounts of personal data to function effectively, and the use, misuse, and breaching of this data is an issue that can’t be ignored. There’s also the risk of bias in AI decision-making, where algorithms may inadvertently discriminate against certain groups due to flaws in their training data or design. Job displacement is another worry, as AI automation could lead to significant changes in the job market as people lose jobs that are more efficiently done by AI-powered robots and devices. Additionally, there are concerns about the lack of transparency in AI systems, making it difficult to understand how decisions are made. Safety issues arise when AI is used in critical systems like healthcare or autonomous vehicles, where errors could have serious consequences, including the loss of human life. There’s also the potential for AI to be used maliciously, such as in creating deepfakes (i.e. “fake news” or AI-generated media such as images, videos, or audio that convincingly mimic real people, posing risks for misinformation and privacy violations), or autonomous weapons (i.e. Military systems capable of selecting and engaging targets without human intervention, raising ethical concerns about the use of lethal force and the need for regulation). Lastly, as AI becomes more advanced, there are long-term concerns about maintaining human control over increasingly sophisticated systems (again, like in iRobot). These risks highlight the need for careful development, regulation, and ethical considerations in Artificial Intelligence (AI) deployment.

4. How Is Artificial Intelligence (AI) Helpful And What Are Some Benefits To Using It?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers a wide range of benefits across various sectors, significantly enhancing human capabilities and improving efficiency. By reducing human error and automating repetitive tasks, AI increases accuracy and productivity while allowing people to focus on more creative and strategic work. Its ability to analyze vast amounts of data quickly leads to improved decision-making and valuable insights in fields like business intelligence and medical research. AI’s 24/7 availability enables round-the-clock service, enhancing customer experiences through personalized support and improving safety through constant monitoring in hazardous environments. From streamlining business processes to advancing healthcare diagnostics and treatment planning, AI is proving to be an invaluable tool that not only complements human efforts but also extends our capabilities in ways previously unimaginable, ultimately driving innovation and progress across industries.

5. When Should I Use Artificial Intelligence (AI) and How Do I Get Started?

As Artificial Intelligence becomes more prevalent, employees with AI skills will be in high demand. Thus: Now is the time to start! Learning about Artificial Intelligence and how it works in your industry can make you more valuable to your organization and open up new career opportunities. AI is already integrated in so many industries and tools (even if you don’t realize it), so by learning more about how it works, you can position yourself (and your organization) to take advantage of this transformative technology. To get started with Artificial Intelligence, first familiarize yourself with AI concepts so that you can have a basic understanding of AI terminology and concepts. You can start by reading AI guides or perusing online courses that introduce AI basics. I started with my tried-and-true book series for learning anything under the sun: Artificial Intelligence For Dummies (2nd Edition), however, I can understand if you want to start with a Beginner’s Guide Online. Taking some online courses or following some online study guide begins your journey, then your next step is playing around with some user-friendly starter AI tools (I’ll do a future post to delve more into the options, but a fair warning here: Don’t sign up for any new programs without doing some due diligence on what information they’re getting from you (and your devices) and how they intend to use them). There are many AI tools available for various tasks. I’m refraining from naming specific ones at this time, because I don’t want this introductory post to be taken as an endorsement of one over the others. The goal behind your first foray into the world of AI tools is to learn and experiment in a low-stakes environment to get a better understanding of its capabilities and limitations. That’s why I’m saving this AI tool conversation for a more in-depth post. In the meantime, try your best to keep up with the latest trends in information technology and follow AI news and developments. Also, keep an eye out for these discussions in your daily work life, especially if your organization publishes stories or guidance on its use or implementation. There’s likely going to be a push from all walks of life to get you to start using AI in some capacity, opting to give you “free access” to various tools and capabilities. Just be aware: When something is given to you for free: YOU ARE THE PRODUCT!

6. How Can AI Help Me Keep My Job And/Or Stay Competitive In My Job, Industry, or Field?

This is the question that I got most often when I surveyed a group of novices about their curiosity of Artificial Intelligence! A lot of people are nervous about this topic and looking for ways to get a competitive advantage in their job/industry. Thus, embracing AI tools and using them to enhance your skills, productivity, and value to your organization, can give you that competitive edge. To help you leverage AI to stay professionally competitive, Look to: 1) Enhance your AI skills and knowledge by learning how it’s being integrated into your field; 2) Improve your productivity and efficiency by using AI tools to analyze large datasets of information to make data-driven decisions or automate repetitive tasks so you can focus on higher-value work; and 3) Stay informed about industry trends to keep up with the latest developments in your field, as well as how AI-powered tools and devices can help improve your personal and social life. As you work to find the ways that Artificial Intelligence will fit into your professional landscape, remember that AI is meant to augment human capabilities, not replace them, so focus on developing skills that complement AI technologies. Here’s a few ways this is working for these select professionals:

Communications Specialist: AI writing assistants aid in drafting press releases and social media content, and sentiment analysis tools help gauge public opinion on campaigns.
Human Resources (HR) Specialist: AI-powered tools are being used to enhance efficiency and decision-making in employment recruitment processes like analyzing resumes and screening candidates. Additionally, chatbots can be used to handle routine employee inquiries about benefits, policies, and procedures.
Chief Diversity Officer (CDO): Artificial Intelligence tools can be used to automate bias detection in company communications and policies, and gauge sentiment analysis about inclusion initiatives among employees.
[The Other CDO] Chief Data Officer (CDO): AI technology and tools can increase effectiveness by improving data quality, enabling advanced analytics, and fostering cross-functional collaboration within an organization.

7. Was This Article Written By Artificial Intelligence?

You tell me. Now that you’re at the end of it: Did I write this? Or was artificial intelligence the author? Comment below (or message me on LinkedIn after connecting) and I’ll tell you the answer.

*Simplified Cybersecurity Solutions is a joint venture from SSS for Success (Simplified Social Media Solutions).

Calling All Case Studies: The Search for Key Industry Players

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SSS for Success (Simplified Social Media Solutions) is in search of new Success Stories! We’re looking for organizations who are willing to have their social media marketing efforts documented in exchange for a discounted rate of products and services, so that we can have the opportunity to showcase our talents and help propel your brand to the next level with new media! Specifically, we’re interested in organizations in the following industries:

Food Trucks (preference given to Chicago and Minneapolis-based businesses): Got a must-have culinary treat that has people traversing the globe (or your local city) to find you? Well, we want to work with you! Food trucks are the ideal place to grow and expand a location-based, mobile marketing initiative, and we’ve got some innovative plans we’re eager to put into action!
Family-Owned Small Businesses: We’re looking to work with an established family-owned small business to showcase how the integration of social media can infuse positivity and bring in new business by strategically targeting customers in the social media space. We want someone with a story to tell about their business that is compelling and encourages people to “shop small” with them. Multi-generational companies and even social media skeptics are welcomed! Let us show you how a few simple and easy steps can expand your reach and increase your sales by delivering new and returning customers!
Faith-Based Organization or Ministry: We have a great online marketing package that’s primed for a faith-based outreach initiative! This package is ideal for a ministry that’s looking to bring their offline offerings to the online space (where many of their followers already are). It’s designed to appeal to the members of your flock that already use varying parts of social and mobile technology, and introduces the organization to some of the ways they can enhance their message in the digital arena.
Fundraisers (preferably Non-Profits): Years ago, we had a great experience with a non-profit fundraising initiative, and we’re ready to recreate this success. Specifically, this campaign will revolve around email marketing and the integration of a very cool platform designed streamline online fundraising and donor relations.
Open Call (Pitch Us): If your organization is interesting and deserves consideration, fill out this form and pitch your case. We’re open and innovative enough to take on an exciting challenge, if one’s presented!

In order to take advantage of this Call for Case Studies, you must:

Have a Creative and Collaborative Spirit: We’re willing to work with you, but we can’t do it alone! We’ll consult with you and show you the way, and even train you to do the work yourself, if that’s your desire, but you must be actively involved, and ready to tweak some of your old modes of thinking.
Be open-minded enough to know that there will be some trial-and-error as we work to find the right social media marketing mix that works for you, and be willing to explore, experiment, and tweak your plans as needed.
Accept and understand that processes will be documented for internal purposes, and may be shared externally via SSS for Success marketing materials (with your approval).
Understand that the discounted rate being offered to your comes with an agreement to provide positive promotion of SSS for Success through referrals to colleagues and professional networks. True, you’re not obligated to do this, but it would be nice. This is also our incentive to do a great job when working with you! We want you be so happy you worked with us that you can’t wait to tell at least 5 people about the great products and services you received!
Be ready to make more money through sales, donations, and/or additional customers, save money though efficient operations and a better online marketing strategy, and have your biggest social media marketing problems solved through Simplified Social Media Solutions!

Get started now by filling out our intake form.

We can’t wait to work with you!

Kindra Cotton, Social Media Specialist

12 Things College Students Need to Know About Social Media

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A few years ago, I was asked to put together a piece that ultimately was titled “10 Things College Students Need to Know About Social Media”. Today, when I go back and revisit that piece, I see much of the information is still relevant, so I wanted to bring this topic up again, and add a few extra tips.

As you know, social media is a great way to stay connected with family and friends, and get connected with new people while expanding your long-term professional opportunities. Thus, here are 12 Things College Students Need to Know About Social Media:

Be Friendly, Look Around, and Stay Engaged: Do a little research and watch how people interact with others, then jump in and join the conversation! Comment on blogs, make @replies on Twitter, and introduce yourself to someone via Facebook, follow interesting folks on Instagram, Pinterest, or Tumblr based on the topics you like. When you speak for the first time, say “Hi (insert their first/user name)” and mention something that is an area of interest for them and highlight your mutual interests. Remember, most people’s favorite word is their own name and their favorite topic is themselves.
Choose Your Network and Friends Wisely: While it’s great to connect with people and actively engage with them, know that everyone isn’t going to be your friend, nor is their worth to your network the same. Don’t just add friends to have a huge friends/followers list. Work on having a connection that matters and make the investment in your network by choosing members carefully. Plus, currently it looks as though there’s likely going to be a long-term benefit to doing this, now that some companies are using your social media networks to determine your creditworthiness based on your friends’ payment histories.
Follow Up: Your word is your bond, even in social media. If you say you’re going to do something: Do it! If you can’t meet a deadline, make an appointment, or keep a prior commitment: Let people know that in advance. Also, if someone says they’ll get back to you, or that they’d like for you to get in touch with them at a later date: Send a reminder and follow-up to make sure you don’t get misplaced from someone’s busy schedule.
Apply the “Front Page of the Newspaper Test”: Though the concept of newspapers and the physical front pages of them are becoming an antiquated idea, the concept of “The Public Eye” is not. While the throng of “reality TV shows” would have you believe otherwise: “all news isn’t good news”. Before you publish something online to a social media outlet, think “What would my mom/dad/loved one whose opinion I really respect think if they saw this?”. Also, it’s not a bad idea to ask: “What would this look like if it were broadcast to the world?”. If it’s something that can be taken out of context, or make you look bad to potential employers or clients, think again about posting it. Know that nothing is “private” if you put it out there, regardless of whatever “safety controls” that are offered on various social networks. If it’s there, it can be leaked, so if you don’t want EVERYONE to know something: Don’t post it!
Google Yourself and Protect Your Reputation: Censor yourself (see #4) and edit as necessary. Consider the fact that everything you do, say, or upload to the internet can be archived and potentially displayed in perpetuity (i.e. forever), so remember that when you upload content and make comments. Google yourself once a month and see what others are finding out about you. Use Google Alerts to monitor your name on the web and receive email alerts whenever you show up in a search result.
Take Control of Your Personal Brand: Purchase your name as a domain name now if it’s available, and stake your claim to your name on all the social media networks. Get control of the information that’s on the web about you, and do that by strategically posting comments on blogs, engaging in online communities, and being mindful about what people can find out about you by doing a Google search. As time progresses and you work on making more of a name for yourself down the road, you’ll appreciate having been proactive about your personal brand and the image you project to the online world. FYI: Social Mention (when it’s working) does the same as Google Alerts, but across the social web.
Promote Yourself and Others: Start a blog hosted on your domain name, and start building your personal brand early. Include a nice, smiling photo of yourself, and lots of information about who you are on the “About” page, in addition to highlighting the best way for people to get in touch and connect with you. Do a Twitter Search for a topic of interest to you, and find like-minded people, join related online communities, and comment on their blogs. When you see something you like, promote it and tell everyone why you love it!
Get LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a great resource and provides a vast professional network that can mean job opportunities, internships, mentoring, career advice, and entrepreneurial opportunities. Fill out your profile with “future-oriented language” highlighting how your past experience has prepared you for future successes. Join Groups and send personal messages when you invite people to join your network. Put in a little effort and show that you know a little about the person, and highlight some areas of interest you both share.
Be Flexibly Adaptable: As soon as you master one social media platform, it will surely change, so continue learning and surveying the landscape for new developments in social media. Find out what others are using and why they like it, and always be willing to try new things.
Don’t Rely on Reputation Management Services: Over the past few years, I’ve seen a surge in the number of companies (and subsequent web and TV advertisements) promoting “reputation management” services. Now, I admit, I haven’t tried any of them, but the basic premise of how they work seem to be flawed, as they aren’t doing anything that ultimately you can’t do yourself, with some time and a bit of research. I wouldn’t pay someone THOUSANDS of dollars for whatever services they’re offering. Also, as I watch these commercials, most of these companies really do come across as “wolves in sheep’s clothing” preying on people that don’t know much about technology and for those whom a “reputation management service” sounds like it could be offering a good deal. Ok, before I get off on a tangent, let me reiterate my point: Don’t rely on a reputation management company to correct any past mistakes you’ve made online, because for the most part, deleting things from The Web isn’t really effective. It’s likely been archived, saved, documented, or even screencapped by someone else, thus be wary of companies that are offering to improve your reputation, especially since some of them are suffering from black-eyes to their own reputation.
Learn the Networks and Use Them to Your Advantage: The great thing about social networking as its flourished over the years is that it’s easier to find your niche and others that are into what you like. In fact, now that social media has started to mature, you can actually see what networks are best for whatever you’re seeking to accomplish. For instance, Facebook has a tendency to be the people that you already know and are connected to via some real-world connection, either via past school, church, or job-related activities. Twitter, on the other hand, is filled with celebrities and people connecting in real-time across the globe. LinkedIn is more “professionally-focused”, as its users tend to be business-oriented in their interactions and connections, and Pinterest, Tumblr, and Instagram are all very popular with the creative arts crowds, as Pinterest attracts folks into pictures and collages, Tumblr works to be the be-all for shared media content, and Instagram continues expanding its reach moving from pictures into video. In all, each network (and there are way more than this for sure), has its own audience and people that gravitate towards it. The best advice here would be to note what interests you, and then figure out which network is going to be the best tool for connecting you with like-minded folks!
Think Long-Term: College is 4-6 years of fun and learning, but don’t forget to keep your end goal of being prepared to handle all of the responsibilities of adult life in mind in all of the decisions you make. Make social media choices that you can look back on years from now with a fun and familiar grin, instead of a shameful chagrin.

Hope all this information was helpful. Let me know what you think, and if you have any other tips for looking professional in the online arena?

Leave a comment below or fill out the contact form. You can also find our automated social media news stream on Twitter @sss4success.

Have a great day!

Kindra Cotton, Social Media Specialist

12 Things College Students Need to Know About Social Media