Yesterday, a client mentioned that 3 billion of the 7.5 billion people on Earth touched AI that day. While that isn’t entirely surprising, the sheer volume of users helps explain why we all use AI so differently, often shaped by our life circumstances.
I want to touch briefly on generative AI (genAI) tools powered by large language models (LLMs)—the technology behind tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini—because governance and guidance in this space are still evolving. Our ability to use these tools thoughtfully is where the gap widens between those they help and those they unintentionally hurt.
I’m a firm believer that genAI is a magnificent tool if you micromanage the hell out of it.
This is where the divide becomes visible. Seasoned professionals tend to use AI much more intentionally. So many others don’t, and poor use of AI can damage credibility far more than it saves time.
Increasingly, people are discerning when it comes to AI use, so it’s important to consider your audience.
For example, I walked in on my daughter the other day as she was watching a documentary on Chappell Roan that had clearly been developed using AI. She loves Chappell Roan and was happy as a clam to get the chance to learn more about her. I, on the other hand, found it annoying and distracting. The "narrator" relied on contrasting framing in what felt like every third sentence (a classic AI giveaway), and it pulled me out of the experience.
That’s the risk. When AI becomes obvious, your audience stops listening to your message and starts analyzing your method.
I could write ten posts about how to properly use AI, but you’ve probably already heard them. What I want to share with you today is this:
Here are my top tips for using genAI and LLMs effectively without losing your voice or your humanity.
Companies building AI tools often talk about freeing us from rote tasks so we can focus on higher-value work. That promise only holds true if you first take an honest look in the mirror and identify your weaknesses.
For me, I can reliably produce high-quality work, but I’m also a recovering perfectionist who tends to spend too long getting things “just right.” I use tools like ChatGPT and Claude to edit and polish my ideas. This saves time while helping me maintain my hard-earned progress as a recovering perfectionist.
In this case, I’m using AI to complement professional development work I’ve already done. I never use it to replace my brain and come up with new ideas.
If you’re a solopreneur like me, part of a small business, or operating in a fast-evolving industry, think of AI as a high-potential but very green employee who needs direction.
If you need ongoing support, hire skilled people. But if you’re trying to temporarily level up your skills or handle bursts of work, an LLM can be incredibly helpful.
Just remember, like an intern, your LLM needs lots of context, structure, and oversight to deliver solid results.
Many professionals operate within echo chambers. AI can be useful for pressure-testing ideas against competitors, alternative viewpoints, or industry trends.
During my years working in agencies, this was one of the greatest benefits clients received. They gained perspective shaped by the dozens of other clients we served with similar growth patterns and challenges.
Today, LLMs can serve a similar function. Once you’re confident in your ideas, use them to substantiate your thinking, such as identifying relevant data points or exploring alternative perspectives.
This connects back to compensating for weaknesses. If detail orientation isn’t your natural strength, LLMs can help you maintain both speed and thoroughness.
That said, LLMs can generate inaccurate or incomplete information. Always guide, verify, and re-check. Emphasis on the re-check.
Don’t forget to protect sensitive information when using AI tools.
Most platforms include privacy and data-sharing settings that allow you to limit how your information is used. However, remember that these are data usage controls, rather than confidentiality guarantees. Review those settings carefully, and avoid entering confidential, proprietary, or personally sensitive information.
Do not take the easy way out with AI. I promise it will show and others will question your judgment, instincts, and credibility. Used correctly, however, AI can help you lean into your strengths, compensate for your weaknesses, and create stronger, more well-rounded work.