AI technology will revolutionise how we work. We can’t fight it, so let’s learn how to use it to help us!
Based on the last few weeks I’ve spent experimenting with it, I think the potential for this tool to help think tanks save time and increase impact is pretty exciting.
In this blog, I share some basic tips for getting started with ChatGPT. In the next blog, I’ll share ideas for how to start using ChatGPT to improve your think tank communications.
If you’ve been experimenting with ChatGPT and have additional tips to share, contact me on Twitter @louball_comms and/or join our Twitter Space on Thursday 9 February.
-
Sign up
The first step is to sign up for ChatGPT. You may encounter difficulties accessing the site at first but keep trying every 20 minutes until you are able to access it. I did this and once I got in, it never kicked me out again.
-
Start a new chat for each purpose
Each chat that you start in ChatGPT will be saved in the navigation panel on the left-hand side of the screen. ChatGPT uses machine learning algorithms to learn from each chat, so it’s a good idea to set up a separate chat for each specific purpose.
-
Provide clear instructions
Begin by clearly stating what task or output you want ChatGPT to produce for you, or what it is you want to achieve. For example, “I want to write a blog on the importance of evidence in policymaking”, or “I want to build a strategy to write more impactful social media posts.”
-
Give it context
Next, give it the necessary context and relevant information. For example, if you want it to help write your social media posts, tell it about your think tank, your audiences, the type of content you regularly share on social media, your social media goals, your desired tone and so on.
-
Check in
Ask ChatGPT, “Do you understand so far?” It will respond with a summary of what you’ve inputted. If there are any clarifications or additions that need to be made, this is the time to make them.
-
Always review content and provide feedback
While ChatGPT is a powerful tool, it has limitations, so be sure to review all content generated before posting or sending it anywhere. ChatGPT uses machine learning algorithms to continuously improve, so be sure to let it know when it’s done a good job and when it’s gotten something wrong.
-
Experiment
It’s a new tool, so take the time to explore, test, and learn what works best for you and your organisation. Have fun and play around. Try asking it for different perspectives or to write in different tones. Ask questions, probe, dig deeper. The best results come when you and ChatGPT work together. If you discover any cool hacks or tips, please do share.
Finally, a shout out to the Language Athlete Founder Julio Ponce for sharing many of these tips with me. Julio is a great example of someone who’s fully embracing AI technology in his language learning and coaching business.