If you run a small business today, you’ve probably noticed that everyone seems to be talking about AI for small businesses. You’ve seen posts about chatbots answering customer queries, software that can generate marketing content in seconds, and tools that claim to save you hours of admin work every week. The potential sounds incredible, but there’s a big question you might have:
“Do I really need an AI consultant, or can I figure it out myself?”
It’s a fair concern. On one hand, hiring an AI consultant in the UK could give you expert advice, customised solutions, and peace of mind that you weren’t making expensive mistakes. On the other hand, consultants cost money, and as a business owner, you’re probably already careful about every pound you spend.
This is exactly what holds many small business owners back from making progress with AI. You don’t want to throw money at something you could handle on your own, but you also don’t want to waste months trialling tools that never quite deliver.
That’s why we’ve created this guide so you’ll discover:
- What an AI consultant actually does for small businesses
- When DIY is a smart option that saves you money
- The clear signs that bringing in expert support is the better choice
- How to choose the right consultant if you decide to go down that route.
By the end, you’ll be able to make a confident, informed decision about whether to hire an AI consultant or embrace a DIY approach, and you’ll know exactly what’s in it for you either way.
What an AI Consultant Brings to Your Business
So, what does an AI consultant actually do? And more importantly, why might their expertise matter to you as a small business owner?
At its core, an AI consultant for small businesses helps you cut through the noise. With hundreds of new tools launching every month, it’s easy to fall into “shiny object syndrome”, signing up for subscriptions that look clever but never really solve your problems. An experienced consultant stops that waste before it starts.
Here’s what you gain when you bring in expert support:
1. Expertise and Shortcuts
AI consultants spend their days testing tools, solving integration headaches, and keeping up with the latest developments. That means they’ve already seen the rookie mistakes that trip up small business owners. Instead of spending months trying out different apps, you get a shortcut straight to the solutions that work.
2. Custom AI Solutions for Your Business
Your company isn’t a cookie-cutter. You’ve got your processes, systems, and ways of serving customers. A consultant doesn’t just throw generic tools at you; they create custom AI solutions that fit the way you already work. Whether that’s linking your CRM with a chatbot, automating parts of your bookkeeping, or generating sales reports with a single click, the solution is built around your needs.
3. Faster Training for Your Team
Even the best AI tool is useless if your staff won’t use it. One of the biggest barriers to AI adoption for SMEs is team resistance. An AI consultant helps smooth this process by training your staff in plain language, showing them how the tools make their jobs easier, not harder. That way, adoption happens quickly, and the benefits start showing up sooner.
In short, an AI consultant in the UK isn’t about selling you technology you don’t need. They’re about helping you save time, avoid mistakes, and get results faster than you could alone. For many small businesses, that expertise pays for itself.
How Artificial Intelligence Fits Into Your Business Strategy
Artificial intelligence isn’t just about tools; it’s about how those tools fit into your wider AI strategy and long-term goals. Small businesses often hear about machine learning, deep learning, and natural language processing without really understanding how they apply. If these technologies align with your priorities, they can be practical and not overwhelming.
An experienced AI consultancy helps you find where solutions like predictive analytics, recommendation engines, or generative AI can make a real difference. The right AI strategy sessions give you a roadmap that is achievable and cost-effective. They help enhance customer experience, streamline customer support, and improve your supply chain management.
From Data Collection to Customer Insights
AI is only as good as the information you feed it. That’s why data collection, data analysis, and data management are so critical for small businesses looking to embrace AI adoption. Correctly structured data powers smarter AI models. These models can predict customer behaviour, improve customer engagement, and map out the customer journey.
Working with an AI integration specialist means your data flows smoothly across systems, so your AI-driven strategy can actually deliver. Instead of drowning in spreadsheets, you get actionable customer insights that help you make better decisions and strengthen client relationships.
AI Digital Transformation and Risk Management
For many businesses, AI is part of a bigger digital transformation journey. It’s not just about automating admin tasks; it’s about improving efficiency, cutting wasted time, and driving growth across your entire business landscape.
That journey also comes with challenges. You need to consider AI ethics, regulatory compliance, and how new technology impacts your team. This is where change management becomes vital. The right consultant doesn’t just install technology; they guide you through the human side of transformation, ensuring your team feels supported and confident.
You get measurable improvements when you combine business automation with strong risk management. These improvements occur in supply chain optimisation, predictive maintenance, and managing billing hours more effectively. With expert AI consulting, you’re not only keeping up with competitors, you’re building a future-ready business.
When DIY Implementation Could Work For You
Not every business needs to rush out and hire an AI consultant. In fact, for many small businesses, starting with a do-it-yourself approach makes perfect sense.
The truth is, some AI tools are so user-friendly that you can set them up in minutes. These affordable AI tools for small businesses are designed with non-techy owners in mind. You don’t need to be a software engineer or a data scientist to benefit.
Here are the situations where DIY really does work:
1. When You’re Using Simple Tools
If you want to test a chatbot that answers customer questions or use an AI tool to help schedule posts on social media, you don’t need professional support. These tools are plug-and-play, and the setup usually involves nothing more than creating an account and following a few simple prompts.
2. When You Have the Time to Learn and Experiment
If you enjoy trying new technology and you’re willing to spend a few hours experimenting, DIY can be a smart option. Many DIY AI tools come with tutorials and support communities that guide you step by step. It might take a little patience, but you can figure it out on your own.
3. When the Risks Are Low
If the tool isn’t connected to sensitive customer data or compliance requirements, experimenting is low risk. You can test, learn, and see if the AI genuinely helps before committing further.
So, can small businesses use AI without a consultant? Absolutely. In fact, DIY is often the best way to dip your toes in the water. Start small with a tool that solves one clear problem, track the results, and build confidence. If the DIY project is successful, that’s great; you will have saved money and acquired a new skill.
DIY is a safe starting point. The challenge comes when you try to scale, integrate multiple systems, or handle sensitive information, and that’s where we’ll head next.
When You Should Call in an AI Consultant
DIY is a fantastic way to start with AI, but there comes a point where doing it yourself can actually hold you back. The question is: how do you know when it’s time to stop tinkering and bring in expert support?
Here are the clearest signs that hiring an AI consultant will save you more money, time, and stress in the long run:
1. You Need to Link Multiple Systems Together
One chatbot is easy. One scheduling tool is manageable. But what happens when you want your CRM, website, finance software, and customer service platform all working together? This is where DIY can quickly become overwhelming. An AI consultant provides AI integration support, ensuring your systems talk to each other properly and your business runs smoothly.
2. Compliance or Sensitive Data Is Involved
If you’re handling financial records, health data, or personal customer information, you can’t afford to make mistakes. The penalties for non-compliance under UK and EU data laws can be severe. A consultant helps ensure AI compliance for small businesses, making sure your use of AI tools doesn’t land you in legal or regulatory trouble.
(source: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/data-protection-fining)
3. You’ve Already Wasted Time or Money on DIY
Many small business owners jump between free trials and low-cost subscriptions, hoping one will stick. The problem? A year later, you’ve spent hundreds of pounds and countless hours, but you’re no closer to getting results. At this stage, an expert can reset the process, identify what’s working, and cut away the tools you don’t actually need.
4. You Need Faster Results Than DIY Can Deliver
Sometimes, time is the most expensive resource of all. If you’re under pressure to cut costs, improve efficiency, or impress investors, you can’t afford months of trial and error. Hiring an AI consultant in the UK means getting the right solution in weeks, not waiting half a year.
Of course, hiring an expert does come with a cost. Fees vary, and we will cover AI consultant costs in the UK in the FAQs. If a consultant saves you more than you spend, the value quickly outweighs the fee. This can happen through efficiency, compliance, or avoiding wasted investments.
In short, if AI is starting to feel complex, risky, or frustrating, that’s your signal. DIY has its limits, and bringing in an expert is often the smartest financial decision you can make.
How to Choose a Consultant Wisely
If you’ve decided that hiring an AI consultant is the right move for your business. The next challenge is just as important: how do you choose the right one? With so many people calling themselves AI experts, how do you separate the genuine professionals from those just jumping on the trend?
Here are the key things to look for when choosing wisely:
1. Look for Experience in Your Industry
AI is not one-size-fits-all. An e-commerce shop has very different needs from a law firm or a manufacturer. When choosing, ask whether the consultant has worked with businesses like yours before. The right fit will understand your challenges and know which custom AI solutions will actually deliver results for you.
2. Ask About Case Studies and Results
Don’t settle for vague promises. A credible consultant should be able to show you case studies, testimonials, or examples of businesses they’ve helped. Look for specific outcomes, time saved, costs reduced, or revenue increased. This proof builds trust and shows you’re not paying for theory but for results.
3. Clarify Fees and Outcomes Upfront
The biggest fear for small businesses is hidden costs. A trustworthy consultant will give you clear pricing from the start. Whether they charge by the hour, by the project, or on a retainer, you should know exactly what’s included. The best consultants tie their work directly to your business goals, whether that’s through AI business strategy consulting, training your staff, or implementing specific tools.
4. Make Sure They Prioritise Simplicity
A good consultant won’t drown you in jargon or try to overcomplicate things. Instead, they’ll explain the process in plain English and keep the focus on solving your problems. Remember, the goal of AI isn’t to make your business more complicated; it’s to make it simpler, faster, and more effective.
When you know how to choose an AI consultant properly, the decision feels less risky. You’re not gambling with your budget; you’re investing in guidance that helps you avoid costly mistakes and get measurable results.
About Mark The Brand Builder
When you’re choosing an AI consultant, trust matters. You don’t just want someone who understands technology; you want someone who understands your business. That’s where Mark the Brand Builder stands out.
Why Choose Mark The Brand Builder?
The Mark team has built their reputation on helping small and growing businesses unlock the power of AI without wasting money or drowning in jargon. They’ve advised dozens of SMEs across the UK, from local service providers to fast-growing e-commerce brands, and they know exactly where AI delivers the biggest impact. Their focus isn’t on selling you the latest shiny tool. It’s about solving your business problems with simple, effective, and measurable solutions.
How the Mark The Brand Builder Team Will Benefit Your Business
With Mark The Brand Builder, you get more than just a consultant. You get a partner who:
- Identifies the best opportunities for AI in your business, so you see quick wins that build confidence.
- Delivers custom AI solutions tailored to your processes, ensuring tools actually fit the way you work.
- Trains your team so adoption is fast and frustration-free, because technology only works if people use it.
- Supports you long-term with ongoing advice and integration support as your business grows.
Client-Focused Approach to Customer Satisfaction
The Mark team’s approach is built on listening first and advising second. Every business is different. Our priority is understanding your challenges before he recommends any solution. Clients often say they appreciate the clarity, honesty, and down-to-earth communication.
One small business owner said, “We saved 10 hours a week on admin within the first month of working with the Mark team.” Another shared: “We cut over £500 a month in unused subscriptions thanks to their advice and input.”
(source: https://www.ibm.com/think/insights/how-does-ai-improve-efficiency)
With the Mark team, you won’t get jargon or pressure. You’ll get practical guidance your whole team can understand and act on, which is why so many small businesses trust him to steer them in the right direction.
ROI For Your Business
For small businesses, every pound matters. The Mark’s team’s work is designed to ensure the money you spend on AI pays you back, whether that’s through saving time, reducing wasted spend, improving compliance, or driving new revenue. Their focus is on measurable outcomes.
Every engagement begins with a clear roadmap and a no-obligation consultation, so you know exactly what results to expect. No pushy upselling. No hidden fees. Just straightforward advice designed to deliver a return on investment.
With Mark the Brand Builder, AI isn’t just a cost. It becomes a growth engine for your business and a safe, practical way to move forward with confidence.
FAQs
How much does an AI consultant cost in the UK?
The price of an AI consultant in the UK can vary widely, from around £75–£200 per hour to several thousand pounds for larger projects. The problem is, many consultants hide costs or overcomplicate pricing. That’s why working with Mark the Brand Builder is different. You’ll always get a clear, upfront breakdown of fees and outcomes, so you know exactly what you’re paying for and, more importantly, what you’re getting in return. No surprises, no wasted spend. This information comes from Gartner’s article on AI pricing tips and how to control costs effectively.
(source: https://www.gartner.com/en/information-technology/topics/ai-strategy-for-business)
Is it possible for me to utilise free AI tools on my own?
You can, and in fact, the team often encourages small business owners to start with free or low-cost DIY AI tools to get a feel for what’s possible. The challenge comes when you want those tools to actually integrate into your business systems or deliver measurable results. That’s where Mark the Brand Builder steps in; We help you go beyond surface-level testing and turn AI into a practical, revenue-driving tool for your business.
Is an AI consultant worth it for a small business?
Absolutely, if you choose the right one. The value of an AI consultant is in helping you avoid costly mistakes, wasted subscriptions, and compliance risks. With Mark the Brand Builder, you’re not hiring a “techie” who throws jargon at you. You’re gaining a partner who understands the challenges of small businesses, builds custom AI solutions, and shows you exactly how to get a return on your investment. For many owners, the Mark team more than pays for itself in saved time and increased efficiency.
What does an AI consultant actually do?
An AI consultant helps you identify where AI can make the biggest impact, choose the right tools, and make sure they’re implemented properly. The difference with Mark the Brand Builder is our approach: we don’t just install software and leave. We provide AI integration support, train your team, and develop a long-term AI strategy aligned with your business goals. It’s not just about technology; it’s about transformation.
How do I find the right AI consultant?
The right consultant is someone with experience, honesty, and a track record of delivering results. That’s exactly why small businesses choose the team at Mark the Brand Builder. We combine technical knowledge with practical business sense, explain everything in plain English, and always keep your bottom line in focus. If you want someone who guides, supports, and ensures AI actually works for you, Mark The Brand Builder is the consultancy you can trust.
What is the difference between AI consulting and AI consultancy?
Both terms mean professional support in adopting artificial intelligence. An AI consulting firm or AI consultancy helps businesses design an AI strategy, choose the right AI models, and guide AI project execution. At Mark the Brand Builder, we specialise in practical, affordable consulting for SMEs, ensuring your investment delivers real results.
How does artificial intelligence improve customer experience?
AI improves customers’ experiences by using tools like virtual assistants, chatbots, and natural language processing systems. These tools provide faster, more personalised support. It can map the customer journey, boost customer engagement, and give you valuable customer insights. The team at Mark the Brand Builder helps you integrate these solutions so they work seamlessly across your business.
What role does data analytics play in AI adoption?
Data analytics is the foundation of effective AI. Without good data collection and data management, your AI models won’t deliver accurate results. Expert support helps data become the fuel for predictive analytics, recommendation engines, and AI-driven strategies. These give you measurable improvements across your business.
How can AI help with supply chain management?
AI can transform supply chain management through predictive maintenance. It can also help with demand forecasting and supply chain optimisation. These applications use machine learning and deep learning to spot risks earlier and reduce costs. Mark the Brand Builder team helps you find where automation and analytics can simplify your operations. It avoids making things too complicated.
What should small businesses know about AI ethics and compliance?
As AI becomes part of your digital transformation, you need to consider AI ethics and regulatory compliance. Protecting customer data, maintaining transparency in AI usage, and making sure your processes adhere to legal standards are all part of this. The team at Mark the Brand Builder ensures your AI project execution follows best practice, balancing innovation with responsibility.
How AI Delivers Business Efficiency and ROI
AI has the power to save you time, reduce costs, and give your business a real competitive edge. The question is never just “Can I use AI?” It’s “How do I use AI in a way that works for me and delivers a return on investment?”
Whether you’re ready to explore AI on your own or you’ve realised it’s time to bring in expert guidance, you don’t have to figure it out alone. With Mark the Brand Builder, you’ll get honest advice, practical solutions, and measurable results that fit your business, your budget, and your goals.
- Call us today on 0117 486 9462
- Contact us here
- Or book a free 15-minute discovery call to see exactly how AI can start working for your business.
Take the first step, and let The Mark Team make AI work for you, not against you.
