Yes, I confess: With so much talk about AI, I decided to try ChatGPT for some work recently. The client even complimented me on the copy I supplied.
Did they get their money’s worth? Yes, because the truth is, the client never saw the copy that ChatGPT outputted. What they saw, and liked, was what I did with that copy. Big difference, which I’ll explain soon.
But first, why use ChatGPT altogether? In my case, it helped with blank-page syndrome. I’m primarily a designer, but I occasionally write copy and become prone to writer’s block from time to time.
Normally, I break that block with my trusty tools: a swipe file (does that age me?), Googling, exercising, and more. However, I’m always open to new technology that can make me more efficient or more creative. So I gave ChatGPT a try when I needed some inspiration on how to begin a welcome email for an organization.
I put this in a prompt:
A welcome email to a new member of an organization
ChatGPT responded by outputting these 4 short paragraphs:
Dear [New Member],
Welcome to [Organization]! We are so glad to have you as a new member of our team and we look forward to working with you.
As a member of our organization, you will have the opportunity to contribute to [cause/mission of organization] and make a positive impact in our community. We believe that every member plays an important role in our success and we value the unique skills and perspectives that you bring to the table.
To get started, here are a few things you might find helpful:
Our website: [organization website]
A list of our current projects and initiatives: [link to projects/initiatives]
A calendar of upcoming events: [link to calendar]
A directory of staff and board members: [link to directory]
If you have any questions or need assistance as you get settled in, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or any other member of the team. We are here to help you succeed and we are excited to have you on board.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Critique time: Okay, the copy is not bad. But you can see that it’s just a starting point because the one-size-fits-all copy approach is a bit robotic. It doesn’t have much personality or originality. If you want something that better reflects your organization … that speaks to the unique benefits your specific audience will enjoy as members, artificial intelligence won’t do. You need a human writer for that. So how did I customize AI copy to best meet my client’s needs? See below.
There’s no denying that AI can be a great tool. But let’s never forget that it’s just a tool and not a replacement for the real deal — the human element.
FINAL EDITED EMAIL COPY
Dear [New Member First Name],
Welcome to MACMA! We are so glad to have you as a member and we look forward to getting to know you.
To get started, we recommend that you:
- Review your profile on our website to make sure your information is correct. To do so please log on here and make any necessary updates.
- Join our Facebook and LinkedIn Groups. Here you can reach out to colleagues for help with pressing problems, get referrals or just stay informed.
- Follow our YouTube Channel to watch videos from previous educational events. We are committed to providing you with the resources and opportunities you need to stay informed, learn, and network with your peers.
Stay connected, with our weekly newsletter and website:
- Learn about upcoming events, both in-person and online
- Be the first to know about MACMA Day and the Holiday Party
- Read industry thoughts and articles
- View white papers
- Receive special member-only discounts
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Sincerely,
President’s name here