AI isn’t a gimmick. It’s not going to disappear when the next shiny tool rolls in.
It’s already changing how business owners show up, especially when it comes to content.
But if you want to use it well — not just to churn out “but here’s the thing…em dash em dash” kinda content that’s flooding our feeds, then you’ve got to be intentional. AI can be a brilliant support tool, but it won’t do your thinking for you. And it won’t sound like you unless you make it.
Here are 6 simple, practical ways to start using AI in your content, without losing what makes your brand human.
1. Use it to beat the blank page
That stark white Docs page open on your screen for 30 mins straight? Soul-crushing.
AI is a great brainstorming partner. Ask it for outlines, angles, prompts…anything to get your ideas flowing faster. Just don’t treat it like a shortcut for substance.
Prompt to try:
“Give me 5 post ideas for a service-based business on setting boundaries with clients.”
2. Set the tone before you ask it to write
If you don’t give AI any personality to work with, it’ll default to generic, over-explained, or slightly cringey.
So feed in your tone of voice. Your quirks. Your non-negotiables.
Bonus points if you’ve got a Brand Spirit™ to copy from.
Prompt to try:
“Write this email in a tone that’s warm, opinionated, and jargon-free. Avoid exclamation marks and don’t sound like a marketer.”
3. Feed it original thinking
AI isn’t a content engine. You are. It just formats what you put in.
If you don’t feed it any original thoughts, stories, or opinions, you’ll get the same beige content it gives everyone else.
Use your voice. Your experience. Your weird little analogies.
And always, always fact-check what it gives you back. Language models have a knack for presenting information very convincingly.
4. Use it to repurpose, not replace
AI is great at turning one piece of content into many.
Have a blog you’re proud of? Ask for a condensed version, a carousel, an email lead-in, or a LinkedIn post.
You’re still doing the thinking…it’s just helping you adapt the format.
Prompt to try:
“Summarise this blog into a 4-slide carousel with clear headings and a CTA.”
5. Let it highlight the gaps
You’re often too close to your own content to spot what’s missing.
Ask AI to review your sales page or bio like a client would. What’s unclear? What objections might still be lingering? It’s not perfect, but it can surface blind spots.
Prompt to try:
“Review this copy. What would a potential client still be unsure about? What could make it more persuasive?”
6. Test multiple hooks and angles
You might know the core message, but there are a dozen ways to say it. AI can help you explore tone, style, and structure without getting stuck.
Ask for punchier versions. Softer versions. Contrarian ones. Then choose what fits.
Prompt to try:
“Write 10 alternate hooks for this post. Include bold, emotional, and super-short options.”
My personal fave:
“Write a headline as if you’re catching up with your besties and you want to spill the tea STAT.”
You don’t need to be a tech expert.
You just need to be intentional.
Use AI to speed up the doing, but never as a substitute for your stories, your strategy, or your voice.
That’s what keeps your content grounded.
That’s The Human Element.