Why ChatGPT Doesn’t Scare Me (A Writer)
Another day, another threat to society as we know it. That’s what the news says about ChatGPT, anyway.
So why am I, a copywriter, not scared of the villainous AI?
Because ChatGPT is of no use without people like me.
My First Encounter with AI Writing
I’ll admit, initially, I thought ChatGPT was overhyped. It’d only been on the fringe of my awareness for a few months before one frantic Business Insider article finally pushed it to the forefront of my attention. I had to try this myself.
I typed in something innocuous. “Please write me an essay on the history of the goldfish cracker.” I gave a speech on this in college—I would know of any inaccuracies.
My little AI pal took a moment to gather its thoughts before crafting a wonderfully put-together piece. I read it over, eyes bugging out and heart dropping the further I got.
“Crap. That’s actually pretty good.”
But before I fully panicked and redid my 5-year plan sans copywriting, I realized something felt familiar about ChatGPT.
My Real First Encounter with AI Writing
And that’s when I remembered that AI isn’t new to the copywriting space; we’ve had tools like this for a while. They’re maybe a bit niche, maybe not as powerful, but just as useful. Here are some I like:
AI is fantastic at providing a general blueprint for your copy. Big talking points, specific phrasing, and even SEO keywords. Why shouldn’t I make things easier on myself?
You think Katherine Johnson would have turned down a TI-84? No!!
AI is bland AF
I would never rely on AI completely. It’s an asset, not a cop-out.
Removing hours of early-stage work leaves more time for me to get into the heart of the copy. To give it some spirit, some nuance, and some seasoning. This is why I say ChatGPT is of no use without people.
Copy from AI is good, but it still feels like it came from a tin can. It can be a good base, but you wouldn’t serve it to someone without other ingredients.
A great copywriter stays in the kitchen until they find the phrasing that’s just right — leaving the reader feeling satisfied. A home-cooked meal takes time, and companies who are fine with feeding their audience a shelf-stable can of tuna should rethink their strategy.
Fortunately, I don’t think us chefs are going anywhere.
You’ll only get the freshest food from me, dear readers. Made with love 💕🍛
Want me to cook you up a little something? Fill out the contact form below so we can get busy.
