Hey Content Writers, Does AI Really Live Up to the Hype?

By J. Swindell

If you're like me, you've probably wondered if strolling over to the AI side is worth the long-term investment. Chances are if you're also a student, you may have given it a test run since many (but not all, thank God) professors or college instructors are known for glossing over most papers. The first time I was exposed was last summer when I attended a bootcamp and one of the participants demonstrated how it's used to write a press release. While the free AI app was fascinating, I had an issue with the topic, which was to write a press release for late music legend Prince as if he were a new artist using the color purple.

As a longtime fan and Merchandising major, my neck hairs stood still but I remained silent without as much as an eye roll. The output wasn't the worst but anyone who understands marketing or public relations knows this wouldn't cut muster. Not by a long shot...especially in a super-competitive industry where real talent gets overlooked compared to 40+ years ago when he made his debut.

And, if the few remaining content companies are part of your bread and butter, don't even think about using AI software. I believe the only exception is if the client doesn't mind it but speaking from experience, be ready to put some heart into those words. Why? Because AI ain't giving it and it really doesn't save that much time.

Based on articles I've read, it seems no matter how much or little you spend on software, it's like the Tin Man. No heart.  This is why some content companies have cracked down on how many specialties we writers can take on. Although most of us were told the generalist content writer was going by way of the cassette tape, it hasn't stopped some people.

But, the chief has spoken and the final verdict is that Google isn't having AI clog up its stratosphere. Yep, those generic-sounding articles with little research or thought to back up their content are going by way of the dinosaur. So if you choose to take this route and fill your blog with stale content, good luck with that. This is from someone who once got a cease and desist notice for using one line from a Prince song ages ago, I'd rather work on my original brand.