From the way we shop to the way we work, AI is everywhere, making our lives quicker, smarter, and definitely more interesting. Every day, our feeds are filled with companies touting their latest AI innovations. Every LinkedIn ad seems to scream AI — it’s the hottest trend out there.

Leading companies like Drift, Intercom, and Qualified are all buzzing about their new AI-powered chatbots, promising to redefine customer interactions with unparalleled speed and automation. The idea is captivating: replace salespeople with AI. Imagine the efficiency!

But, hold on a minute.
Do our buyers actually enjoy interacting with these chatbots?
Would you want to chat with a bot during your own buying journey?

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Chatbots can be great at handling the routine — streamlining website navigation and managing the initial stages of customer support. They work tirelessly, and if well-programmed, they handle the basics very well. However, when it comes to those crucial, deal-making moments — those times when buyers are ready to engage seriously — do chatbots truly deliver?

Imagine this scenario: A potential buyer arrives at your site, ready to make some significant decisions. They’re comparing your solutions against others and have specific questions that your FAQs can’t answer. Suddenly, they encounter a chatbot. Their hope for a meaningful conversation quickly turns into frustration. Instead of feeling valued, they feel like just another item on a bot’s to-do list. This isn’t just another chat. It’s a crucial moment that could make or break your relationship with them.

The truth is, no AI today can replicate the understanding and genuine connection that comes from a real human conversation.

When your business relationships are at stake, relying solely on chatbots might inadvertently signal to your customers that you value efficiency over personalized treatment. This could not only end the conversation but could potentially sever the relationship altogether.

So, what’s the alternative? Should sales reps respond to every message on the website? That’s impractical. Studies show that if you don’t respond within 30 seconds, the lead will likely leave the site. It’s also true that you don’t want to engage with just anyone — you have your ideal buyers whom you want to focus on. So how can you provide the best human experience to your ideal customers while still being efficient and scalable?

It’s time for a change. Buyers want immediate value and control over their interactions; they prefer chatting with a real person. This is where Knock comes into play. It ensures that buyers receive the best experience and allows you to engage only with qualified leads efficiently.

How does Knock work? It connects leads directly on Slack (no Slack account needed) in a private channel for immediate interaction with a real sales rep. You don’t have to respond instantly, which eliminates the pressure of a potential buyer leaving the site mid-conversation. The chat on Slack is asynchronous; when you reply, the buyer gets notified. This way, both parties can respond at their convenience, keeping the conversation fluid and continuous.

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With Knock, you can provide personalized VIP treatment to each buyer and maintain engagement far superior to email communications.

Click here to get an interactive learning about Knock on Slack.