The world is changing at a breakneck pace. AI has quickly become a co-pilot in both our personal and professional lives, offering tools to streamline workflows, generate ideas, and even clean up communication. As I write this article, for example, I’m drafting it myself—but I’ll use AI to edit and refine it. Why? Because while I want my message to be clear and polished, I also want you to hear my voice.
This balance is how I prefer to use AI: as a tool to enhance, not replace, the authenticity of my work. Unfortunately, I’ve noticed some concerning trends when it comes to how others are using (or misusing) AI.
AI as a Crutch, Not a Tool
Here are a couple of examples from recent experiences that highlight the problem:
1. The Job Candidate Who Copy-Pasted
At People 360, we hire an average of six people a month. In the hiring process, I often send candidates interview questions via email. Recently, I received a six-paragraph response just two minutes after sending the questions. It was clearly AI-generated—no one can think and type that fast.
One response even included a placeholder instruction: “[Edit this section to include a personal example].” They didn’t bother to review or personalize the text before hitting send! That’s not just lazy—it’s disingenuous.
In this case, I immediately decided the candidate wasn’t a fit. If they weren’t willing to put in the effort to give a thoughtful, authentic response during the interview process, why would I trust them to put in effort as an employee?
2. The Project Manager Who Didn’t Edit
I’m currently coaching an up-and-coming project manager for one of my clients. In a recent situation, they needed to write a detailed report about an incident. They used AI to generate the report, but it included placeholder text like, “[Enter the details of the incident here].” Instead of editing it, they submitted it as-is.
This wasn’t a time-saving shortcut—it was a sign they didn’t take ownership of their work. Using AI to help draft the report was fine, but failing to review, refine, and personalize it was a clear misuse of the tool.
The Right Way to Use AI
AI is an incredible tool, but it’s not a substitute for effort, critical thinking, or authenticity. Here are a few guidelines to help you strike the right balance:
1. Start With Your Own Input
AI works best when it has a strong foundation to build on. If you’re writing a report, draft your main ideas first. If you’re responding to an email, think through your response before asking AI to help you refine it. Your authentic voice should always be the starting point.
2. Always Review and Personalize
Never hit send on an AI-generated response without reviewing it. Does it align with your voice? Does it answer the specific question or address the unique situation? Take the time to edit and ensure it reflects you.
3. Use AI to Complement, Not Replace
AI can be a powerful co-pilot when used correctly. It can help you brainstorm ideas, organize your thoughts, or polish your language. But it can’t—and shouldn’t—replace your unique perspective, expertise, or judgment.
4. Own Your Work
When you use AI, you’re still responsible for the final product. Think of it as a collaborative partner, not an excuse to skip the hard work. If something isn’t right, fix it. If there’s a gap, fill it. The output is only as good as the effort you put in.
The Takeaway
AI is a game-changer, but it’s only as effective as the person using it. When used thoughtfully, it can save time, improve quality, and help you focus on what really matters. But when used lazily or carelessly, it can damage your credibility, relationships, and opportunities.
The key is finding balance. Let AI enhance your work—but never let it replace your authenticity, effort, or personal touch.
So next time you use AI, ask yourself: Am I using this as a tool to improve my work, or as a shortcut to avoid it? The difference matters.
