The Most Common AI Writing Problem

Every small business owner who uses AI writing tools runs into this eventually: they generate a blog post or social caption — and it's technically competent but completely devoid of their personality. AI content that doesn't sound like you is a brand problem. Your brand voice is one of the things that differentiates you from competitors. It's what makes your content recognizable.

The Problem With Generic AI Output

AI language models produce content that reflects the average of all their training — competent, neutral, slightly corporate, mildly enthusiastic about everything. Which is to say: generic. Generic content might be accurate. But it doesn't sound like a specific person with a specific perspective and a specific way of talking. And that specificity is what builds brand recognition and trust over time.

Start With a Brand Voice Document

Before you can prompt AI to write in your voice, you need your voice defined. That means capturing: three to five words that describe your brand's personality, phrases you use consistently that feel like you, phrases that feel completely wrong for your brand, examples of content that sounds like you at your best, and examples that sound nothing like you.

Once you have that document, include it in your AI prompts. The output will be significantly better.

Always Edit From Your Authentic Voice

Treat AI output as a first draft that needs a human pass — not a final product. Read it out loud. Does it sound like something you would actually say? Pay particular attention to the opening line, any phrases that feel over-qualified or corporate, and the closing.

Add Your Specific Stories and Examples

AI doesn't know about Scotty's carpet cleaning business, or the client in Oakland County who tripled their leads, or the specific conversation you had last week with a frustrated business owner. Those specifics are what make your content genuinely useful and distinctly yours. Use AI to generate the structure. Then add your real examples, your specific opinions, and your direct experience.

Want help developing your brand voice and a content system that sounds like you? Schedule a free consultation at jpetrous.com | contact@jpetrous.com | 586-563-6634.