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Writer's pictureMatt Lenzi

A Business Leader's Summary Guide to Starting with Generative AI (With a Focus on ChatGPT and Bard)


Through a multitude of discussions with various business leaders, I have found that there is still a large portion who have yet to get into even the shallow end of the Generative AI pool to see what the big hubbub is all about. If you write documents or emails, and if your desktop software is generally current, it’s practically impossible to avoid interfacing with artificial intelligence, but I’m not talking about the little AI things we organically use and almost not notice, I’m talking about fully exploring (if not using) Generative AI for some of the more time-consuming, larger, and more complex work you do.


As a business leader venturing into this innovative realm, and given you are reading this post, you may be keen to explore tools like ChatGPT and Google's Bard. These platforms represent one of the leading edges of AI technology, enabling users to generate text, automate tasks, and gain insights from large datasets. This brief guide will walk you through the simple steps to get started with ChatGPT and Bard, ensuring that you can begin your journey into Generative AI with confidence and ease. At the end, I will also talk about taking the next step toward subscribing to OpenAI’s ChatGPT Plus (it’s worth it in my opinion).


Getting started with these tools is more straightforward than you might think. The process involves setting up accounts, familiarizing yourself with the platforms, and then experimenting to see how they can benefit your specific business needs. Let's break down these steps and help you embark on a path to utilizing Generative AI effectively.


Step 1: Setting Up Your ChatGPT Account

  1. Visit the Website: Head over to the OpenAI website where ChatGPT is hosted. You can easily find it through a quick internet search. (www.openai.com)

  2. Create an Account: You'll need to sign up for an account. This typically involves providing your email address, creating a password, and sometimes verifying your email.

  3. Explore the Platform: Once your account is set up, take some time to explore the ChatGPT interface. Familiarize yourself with its features and capabilities.

  4. Start Experimenting: Begin by asking simple questions or requesting basic tasks. This will help you understand how ChatGPT responds and operates.


Step 2: Getting Started with Google's Bard

  1. Google Integration: As Bard is developed by Google, it is already integrated into existing Google services. Keep an eye on official announcements from Google for the latest updates on how to access Bard.

  2. Account Setup: If Bard requires a separate account or integration, follow the setup process which may be similar to other Google services – using your Google account to sign in.

  3. Learning the Interface: Once you have access, spend time understanding Bard’s interface. Since it's a newer tool, be prepared for ongoing updates and changes.

  4. Test and Learn: Start with simple queries to see how Bard generates responses. Compare its performance and outputs with ChatGPT to get a sense of different capabilities.


Step 3: Using Generative AI in Your Business

  1. Identify Business Needs: Determine what tasks or areas in your business can benefit from Generative AI. This could be anything from generating reports, creating content, or even handling customer queries.

  2. Integrate into Workflows: Begin integrating these tools into your business processes. Start small, with non-critical tasks, and gradually increase their usage as you become more comfortable.

  3. Train Your Team: Educate your team about these tools. Encourage them to experiment and find innovative ways to incorporate AI into their work.

  4. Monitor and Adapt: Keep an eye on how these AI tools are impacting your business. Be open to adjusting your strategies as you learn more about their capabilities and limitations.

Embracing Generative AI like ChatGPT and Bard is a smart move for any forward-thinking business leader. The key to success lies in understanding these tools and integrating them thoughtfully into your business practices. Remember, the journey with AI is as much about learning and adapting as it is about the technology itself.


Start with curiosity and an open mind, and you'll find numerous ways to enhance your business operations, improve efficiency, and stay ahead in the competitive business landscape. As these technologies continue to evolve, so will their potential applications in your business. Stay informed, experiment, and watch as AI transforms the way you work and drive your business forward. Welcome to the future of business leadership in the age of AI!


Bonus Content: Some Insights on paying for

ChatGPT Plus

Opting for a ChatGPT Plus subscription at $20 can be a strategic move for business leaders looking to leverage AI more effectively in their operations. Here's a detailed look at the benefits this investment can bring:


  1. Enhanced Performance and Speed:

    1. Faster Responses: ChatGPT Plus typically offers faster response times. This is particularly beneficial in a business context where time is of the essence. Quick access to information or prompt completion of tasks can significantly improve productivity.

    2. High Performance During Peak Times: The service is designed to provide more consistent performance, even during high-demand periods. This reliability ensures that your business operations involving AI aren't hindered by external usage spikes.

  2. General Access to New Features and Improvements:

    1. Early Access to New Capabilities: Subscribers often get early access to the latest features and updates. This means your business can stay ahead of the curve by leveraging the newest AI advancements before they become widely available.

    2. Continuous Improvement: With a Plus account, you’re contributing to the ongoing development of ChatGPT. Your subscription helps fund improvements and the evolution of the AI, which in turn, can provide more sophisticated tools for your business use.

  3. Increased Usage Limits:

    1. Higher Caps on Usage: ChatGPT Plus usually offers higher usage limits compared to the free version. This is crucial for businesses that rely heavily on AI for various tasks like data analysis, content generation, or customer service. It ensures that your operations won't be interrupted by hitting usage caps.

    2. Suitable for Scalable Needs: As your business grows, your AI needs might increase. A Plus account can accommodate this growth more effectively than a free version.

  4. Priority Access and Support:

    1. Priority Customer Support: Subscribers may receive priority when it comes to customer support. This can be invaluable for businesses that rely on ChatGPT for critical tasks and need swift resolutions to any issues.

    2. Influence in Future Developments: There’s often a direct channel for feedback for Plus subscribers. This means your business can have a say in what features or improvements should be prioritized, potentially influencing the tool’s development to better suit your needs.

  5. Competitive Advantage:

    1. Staying Ahead Technologically: By having access to the latest AI tools and features, your business can maintain a competitive edge. The ability to quickly adapt and implement new AI capabilities can set your company apart.

    2. Innovative Solutions: With advanced features, you can explore more innovative ways to use AI, whether it's for creating unique marketing content, personalized customer interactions, or efficient data handling.

  6. Cost-Effectiveness:

    1. Return on Investment (ROI): While there's a cost involved, the potential ROI can be substantial. The efficiency and capabilities gained from a Plus account can save time and resources, which could outweigh the subscription fee.

    2. Scalability and Flexibility: For businesses, scalability is key. A Plus account offers the flexibility to scale AI usage up or down based on your business requirements, which can be more cost-effective in the long run.


Investing in a ChatGPT Plus subscription can be a strategic decision for business leaders aiming to integrate AI more deeply into their operations. The combination of faster response times, access to new features, increased usage limits, priority support, and the potential for a strong ROI makes the $20 subscription a valuable tool for any business looking to capitalize on the capabilities of AI. As with any tool, the true value lies in how it's used, so consider how these benefits align with your specific business needs and objectives.

Carpe Diem! ML





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