If your ChatGPT results sound like a history textbook written by someone who hasn’t had fun since 1983 (or as the Gen Zers call it….the late 1900s), you’re not alone.
The problem isn’t that AI chatbot is bad at writing, but that you’re not giving it enough of you to work with. Without your tone, ChatGPT defaults to “polite robot who still signs emails ‘Regards.’”
Think of ChatGPT as an actor. Right now, it’s auditioning for a role it doesn’t understand. Give it a script.
“Here are 3 emails I’ve sent to clients. Write a short update about my new service in this same tone, friendly but with a little sarcasm.”
Suddenly, you’ve got copy that sounds less like Uncle Carl reading cue cards and more like something you’d actually say out loud.
If your draft feels stiff, hand it to ChatGPT and say:
“Rewrite this to sound like me on my third cup of coffee: energetic, casual, and definitely not corporate.”
Or,
“Make this sound less like I’m filing a tax return and more like I’m texting my favorite client.”
The results end up being a draft that sounds human, not like a Roomba writing an apology letter after spreading dog turds around the house.
Before you even start, ask:
“Give me three variations of a LinkedIn post that sound like:
a) I’m funny but still professional
b) I’ve had exactly two margaritas
c) I’m trying to get someone to laugh without using a single dad joke.”
Pick your favorite, then tweak it until it feels like something only you would say.
ChatGPT doesn’t conjure your voice like a Harry Potter spell. But it can parrot what you give it. The more examples, tone cues, and (let’s be honest) weird personality traits you share, the better it performs.