Nonprofits often ask if they should use AI in their communications workflows. After I say absolutely, everyone wants to know how to get started. Here are some tips for effectively using AI to boost nonprofit communications.
Download Multiple AI Models
I find that no AI model is perfect. When I want AI to turn my outline into the first draft or edit a document for me, I use the same prompt across three different AI models: Claude, ChatGPT, and Gemini.
Prompts Matter
When you enter a prompt, be as specific as possible. Tell the model who your audience is, what tone you want to use, and how long you think the document should be. Often, I'm not satisfied with the initial results and find that I may have to modify my prompt. This is similar to doing a Google search and having to refine it to get exactly what you want. Don’t Trust the Output Every model explicitly says that AI makes mistakes. It does. Always check the facts. Always check the grammar.
Think About Tone
After fact-checking, I cut and paste the three different AI responses into a near-final draft. Your voice and your organization's voice matter. AI is good, but it's also generic. Your writing should have a personality that reflects your organization and who you are. Make sure that the final edited product reflects that. When you edit the near-final draft, make sure that your voice and your organization’s guidelines come through.
Why This Matters
You may say that you don’t have time to learn AI because you have deadlines and work to get done. But, when you are up to your ears in alligators, it’s hard to remember you are there to drain the swamp. You need to make the time because AI will make your work easier. An investment in learning how to use AI now will pay short- and long-term dividends.
AI can create quicker first drafts than any human. It also does a great job streamlining your writing. And it will get better. If you don't get started using AI now, you're falling behind colleagues and competitors who are effectively using the tool to save time and improve their communications with internal and external stakeholders.
