AI tools like ChatGPT are fantastic for speeding up your work, whether you're drafting emails, reports, LinkedIn posts, or documentation. While these tools are great at generating content quickly, they’re not always great at sounding human.
Left unchecked, AI-generated text can come across as overly formal, overly dramatic, or just a bit fake.
Before hitting send, take a minute to review the content ChatGPT gave you. It can save you from sounding robotic.
Here are the most common issues to watch out for:
AI often leans toward formality, making everyday points sound like a lawyer or English literature. This can feel unnatural, especially in a casual email or chat.
Common examples:
❌ Figure: Bad example - These phrases sound heavy-handed for most day-to-day writing
Instead, use simpler alternatives that sound more like what you'd say in conversation.
AI sometimes slips into writing that sounds like an ad, even when you’re not selling anything. This usually means lots of positive adjectives with no real facts.
Typical AI phrases include:
❌ Figure: Bad example - Sounds polished, but it’s just fluff with no substance
Stick to facts. If something is great, show why it’s great, don’t just say it is.
AI loves to add contrast for dramatic effect, even though it isn’t needed.
Common AI patterns include:
❌ Figure: Bad example - Overuse of dramatic structures makes writing feel artificial or emotionally loaded
AI can invent explanations that sound deep, but actually say nothing.
Phrases like:
❌ Figure: Bad example - Sounds analytical, but adds no real value or evidence
If AI adds analysis, ask yourself: Is this actually true? Do I have evidence for this? If not, cut it.
AI sometimes adds emojis to make text feel friendly or informal, but in professional writing, this can come across as unpolished or even inappropriate.
While emojis are fine in casual chats, they don’t belong in emails, reports, or documents intended for clients, managers, or stakeholders. They can reduce the credibility of your message and make serious topics seem trivial.
Phrases like:
❌ Figure: Bad example - Emojis make the writing feel unprofessional
Don't overuse Emojis!
AI uses em dashes excessively. Humans usually prefer commas or parentheses in most cases.
Phrases like:
❌ Figure: Bad example - Too many em dashes make it feel unnatural
By taking the time to edit AI's output, you'll sound more authentic, approachable, and clear.