Insights

From Searching to Chatting: Embracing the AI Revolution Over Breakfast

Author

Christian Reed

Published

Feb 9, 2025

Category

Reflections

On a quiet Sunday morning, the author reflects on family life and the shift from traditional internet searching to AI-driven interactions. This transformation affects businesses, as potential customers may first engage through chatbots. Fourth Gen Labs offers solutions to help organizations adapt and thrive in this evolving digital landscape.

Author

Christian Reed

Leads strategy and instruction for Fourth Gen Labs, designing custom, hands-on workshops for small businesses and community groups. Process-oriented and creative, he streamlines workflows, translates goals into practical use cases, and equips people to execute immediately, preparing local economies for a digitally empowered era.

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I’m sitting here on a quiet Sunday morning, enjoying breakfast with my kids—a scene that’s become our little family ritual. For those of you who know me, you know that life with four kids under the age of seven is always an adventure. Today, as we chatted about our day ahead, I couldn’t help but marvel at how naturally my kids have embraced AI. They use it for play, art, games, and even to ask questions and learn new things. It’s almost surreal—they’ve grown up in a world where chatting with technology is as normal as chatting with a friend.

The End of Traditional Search

Not long ago, the idea of searching the internet meant typing keywords into Google and sifting through endless results. I remember the days when you’d have to visit a library, scan through newspapers, or manually navigate through web pages. Those were revolutionary times for me, coming from the ’90s. But now? The landscape has shifted dramatically. My kids wouldn’t even know what a Google search is anymore. Instead, they simply ask, and the answer appears. This isn’t just a small change—it’s a complete transformation in how we interact with information.

We’re no longer searching; we’re chatting.

That shift is more than technological evolution—it’s a change in human behavior. It’s more intuitive and natural to converse, ask, and receive direct responses, rather than comb through pages of information. And while I sometimes wonder if my kids will one day think, “Dad, you used to search?” it’s a sign of the incredible times we’re living in.

What Does This Mean for Your Organization?

Here’s where it gets interesting for all of us in the business world. As we transition from searching to chatting, the first interaction potential customers have with your organization might not be through your website—it could very well be through an AI chatbot. Imagine asking, “What does this company do?” and getting an answer generated by a chatbot before you’ve even had a chance to explore the site.

This new reality poses a critical question: How are you preparing for this shift?

In a world where AI platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, Anthropic, and Perplexity become the first line of sight into your brand, your digital narrative is now in the hands of these agents. No longer do traditional SEO and webpage rankings guarantee that your story is told the way you intend. Instead, your digital presence, your reputation, and your brand identity are now partly defined by how AI chatbots interpret and present your information.

Bridging the Gap with Fourth Gen Labs

At Fourth Gen Labs, we’re not just observing this change—we’re actively helping organizations adapt and thrive. As a minority-owned business based in Pierce County, Washington, our mission is to bridge the gap between technology and those who need it most. We believe that AI should be accessible, transformative, and impactful for every client, empowering businesses and communities to create, innovate, and leave a lasting mark on the world.

Whether you’re looking for:

  • Consulting: We offer AI-powered solutions to enhance productivity, streamline operations, and accelerate growth. From corporate presentations to custom AI solutions tailored to your business needs, we’ve got you covered.

  • Educational Programs: Our interactive labs and workshops, like the “Generative AI Starting Point” lab, demystify emerging technologies and equip you with practical AI skills.

  • A1 Black Initiative: This initiative is dedicated to individuals who identify as Black and are committed to empowering others on their AI journeys. It’s about highlighting Black excellence and cultivating shared wisdom in the AI space.

We’re here to ensure that as the digital landscape evolves, you’re not left behind. In an era where your organization’s digital brand might be described by an AI before your potential customer ever visits your website, having a strong, authentic, and proactive digital presence is more important than ever.

Embracing the Future

I’m reminded this morning—as I watch my kids effortlessly interact with AI—that these changes, however rapid, are opportunities. Opportunities for growth, innovation, and to redefine how we connect with our audience. Just as I’ve been inspired by thought leaders like Gary Vee to build a strong digital brand, I see the same imperative now for every business.

So, as we stand on the brink of this new era where we’re chatting rather than searching, I encourage you to think deeply about your digital narrative. Ask yourself: How are you preparing for a future where AI is the first to speak about your brand?

Thank you for taking a few moments of your Sunday morning with me. At Fourth Gen Labs, we’re excited to be part of your journey through this transformative time. Whether it’s through consulting, educational programs, or our A1 Black Initiative, we’re here to help you navigate the AI revolution with a human touch.

Drop your thoughts in the comments below—let’s keep this conversation going. After all, the future is one we build together, one chat at a time.

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