It feels like everyone is talking about artificial intelligence. I’m using a generation AI chatbot to use badges to others about how others should do the same thing.
But longtime startup investor Barbara Corcoran says AI isn’t something you have to jump on now or otherwise. Speaking to CNBC, Corcoran is creating it while promoting a partnership with Chase for Business, but many people, especially business owners, think they are jumping on AI trains without really knowing how it can benefit them and their businesses.
“There’s always room for you to use it in some way in your business,” she says. “Is that an important skill? Not for every business I encounter. More companies with a lot of investments using AI, don’t know what they’re getting, how they apply it.”
Corcoran says business owners will waste their time and money without a clear plan or vision as to how these tools can benefit you.
On a large scale, small business owners are slow to adopt AI, according to a June 2025 SME and Technology Survey from the National Independent Business Union on Main Street. Research shows that only 24% of SME owners who said they were using technology including ChatGpt, Canva and Copilot. 76% aren’t.
Still, according to a new Asana report, the sloppy execution of artificial intelligence tools could lead to “AI debt.” So it’s important not because of fear or uncertainty, but for those who need it, says Kolcoran.
“I think (AI) is the best since sliced bread, because it has to be a little late,” she says. “That’s too much for people who have lost their jobs and fear.”
Is that an important skill? Not for all the business I encounter.
Corcoran is not the only businessman who wants people to be strategic about AI. Paul Graham, an investor in Silicon Valley and co-founder of Y Combinator Startup Accelerator, says not all aspiring entrepreneurs need to focus on artificial intelligence to find success.
“We haven’t met all the startups in the current (Y-combinator) batch yet, but the two most impressive companies we’ve seen so far aren’t working on AI,” Graham posted on social media platform X on August 10th. ”
Other highly successful people have different opinions, like billionaire Mark Cuban. He uses AI every day, says companies that don’t accept the risk of being left behind.
If you are considering hiring AI to boost your business, Lazarus AI prompt director Kelly Daniel recommends starting small things with a free, generating AI chatbot before investing your money.
“Maybe you’ll use generative AI to come up with more ideas for your business,” she said on CNBC it will be a “smart” course, “How to Use AI in the Workplace.” “Or send me a prompt asking, ‘What are the risks here? What is the competitive analysis here? Who are you looking at as a competitor?” ”
Corcoran says that once you’re comfortable using this technology, you can make more informed decisions for your business and employees.
“The right way to use it is to strengthen your work, empower people, and help those who work for you.
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