3 MINUTE READ
Generative AI (or GenAI) is a useful tool for generating ideas and speeding up content creation. AI should be used with caution, but, when used correctly, it can add significant value to creative copywriting, proposals, presentations, and more. Try to treat GenAI as a one-stop shop—an interactive search engine that finds the answers for you so that you do not spend all your time scouring the internet. While you should always fact-check the results given by GenAI, it can help decrease time spent searching online.
When used correctly and efficiently, GenAI can be a game changer. Here are five tips for how to get the most out of this new tool:
1. Be clear about what you want
Ask for clear, specific results in your prompt. Make sure to ask for the exact topic, length, quantity, and keywords you are looking for. If you do not get the results you want, specify even further and ask follow-up questions to refine the content. The more details you give, the more the program has to work with to get you what you want. Treat GenAI like a conversation you would have with an editor. It may suggest additional changes you have not considered.
2. Use it as a starting point
GenAI is great at list creation, so you can use it as a starting point for your projects. Ask for a top five list of ideas to get some inspiration, then give generated prompts your own unique twist! GenAI is great for getting started, but be careful not to let it write your project for you. You may lose credibility, trust, or even customers if you directly copy and paste generated content. Make sure that your AI use doesn’t take away from your true goal—delivering content that hits home for customers.
3. Ask for more than what you need
Ask for a higher word count than what you need. That way you have more to work with and can take the best and most essential information, then trim as necessary. If you do not want to ask for a specific word count, ask for several paragraphs about one topic. You can also ask GenAI to shorten its last entry to key points or ask for more information on one specific sentence. Asking for more information allows you to pick and choose from the best GenAI has to offer.
4. Apply heavy human oversight
Make it a habit to apply heavy oversight any time you use GenAI. Verify all facts that are generated and thoroughly check if your content is completely accurate. You can ask, “Please tell me your sources,” but always double check with an outside, reliable source to confirm information. Some GenAI programs have been known to make up facts or double-down on a false statement rather than admit they are wrong or do not have an answer. Research thoroughly to ensure your documents are not misleading or incorrect.
5. Understand limitations
Some content offered by GenAI programs may be outdated or incorrect. For example, training for ChatGPT stopped in 2021. It does not work perfectly and has its own flaws. Make sure that whenever you use GenAI, you use it with caution. AI is a tool that is continuously evolving and is not yet a fail-safe method of gathering and generating information.
Using GenAI to your advantage
GenAI can be a useful resource, especially if you are stumped for ideas or have a quick turnaround. However, GenAI should be used as a resource, not a writer. Copying and pasting prompts directly may risk credibility, trust, and even customer retention. Use GenAI as a springboard for your project, not to create the whole thing.
If you have trouble getting the right response from GenAI, it may be time for a writer or an editor. Our technical writing services can achieve the final product you are looking for. Want to learn more? Contact us today.
