If you’re a regular there, I think it’s reasonable to contact them and say that you go there often and are bothered by the AI. “I started coming here regularly because it felt authentic”. “You guys don’t feel authentic anymore, and I’m disappointed” or more strongly “and I’m thinking of taking my business someplace that cares enough about their customers to put in the effort.” “I wish you’d go back to the way you used to do things.” Etc.
Assuming we’re really talking about a small business, it’s very possible someone will listen.
I reach out to small businesses all the time working on OpenStreetMap, and (obviously with selection bias for the ones who respond) they’re usually just pretty nice-seeming people trying their best with what they have.
Edit: One thing I think I should’ve emphasized isn’t just to say “please stop using AI” but that specifically “I liked it better the way you used to do it.” or outright, with no comparison, “I liked the way you used to do it”. “It made you unique.” That is, give them a concrete alternative. For a lot of people, AI, like plagiarism (because it is), is a tool used when someone thinks their voice isn’t good enough. It helps to try to convince them that it is enough and that they not only don’t need it but that it’s harming the unique identity you enjoyed by making them blend in with everyone else.
You’re not the only one bothered by this. But I’m having a hard time drawing a line in the sand for some of my favorite places.
If you’re a regular there, I think it’s reasonable to contact them and say that you go there often and are bothered by the AI. “I started coming here regularly because it felt authentic”. “You guys don’t feel authentic anymore, and I’m disappointed” or more strongly “and I’m thinking of taking my business someplace that cares enough about their customers to put in the effort.” “I wish you’d go back to the way you used to do things.” Etc.
Assuming we’re really talking about a small business, it’s very possible someone will listen.
I reach out to small businesses all the time working on OpenStreetMap, and (obviously with selection bias for the ones who respond) they’re usually just pretty nice-seeming people trying their best with what they have.
Edit: One thing I think I should’ve emphasized isn’t just to say “please stop using AI” but that specifically “I liked it better the way you used to do it.” or outright, with no comparison, “I liked the way you used to do it”. “It made you unique.” That is, give them a concrete alternative. For a lot of people, AI, like plagiarism (because it is), is a tool used when someone thinks their voice isn’t good enough. It helps to try to convince them that it is enough and that they not only don’t need it but that it’s harming the unique identity you enjoyed by making them blend in with everyone else.