Stop Asking AI to "Sound Like You"
It's probably the most common prompt I see. It's also one of the least effective.
Sure, AI can imitate your writing. But asking the tool to "sound like me" assumes your voice is something AI can discover from a sentence or two.
It isn't. Allow me to explain: You stroll into a photographer's studio and say: "Just make me look like myself."
Okay...which version?
The one your coworkers know? Your spouse? Your kids?
The one leading a board meeting? The one laughing with friends over dinner?
A good photographer wouldn't pick up the camera. They'd start asking questions.
Who are we trying to reach? What story are we telling? How do you want people to feel? Writing works the same way.
Let's look at an example.
Prompt #1: Write a Facebook post announcing that my bakery is launching online ordering.
AI: Exciting news! We're thrilled to announce that online ordering is now available. We've been working hard behind the scenes to make it easier than ever to enjoy your favorite baked goods. Visit our website to place your order today. We can't wait to serve you!
Nothing technically wrong with it.
It's also exactly what every other small business just posted.
Prompt #2: Write this for the owner of a neighborhood bakery. She's warm, funny, and deeply connected to her community. She's spent years learning customers' names and favorite orders. She's excited about online ordering, but doesn't want anyone to think the business is becoming less personal.
AI: I'll admit it—I resisted online ordering longer than I probably should have.
Not because I don't love convenience, but because one of my favorite parts of this job is asking about your kids while I box up your cinnamon rolls.
The good news? We figured out how to make ordering easier without losing what makes this place feel like your neighborhood bakery. Starting today, you can order ahead online. And yes, we'll still ask how your soccer game went when you stop by.
Much better.
I'd even say it's good.
But here's where my job starts.
I'd ask:
Would she really open by admitting she resisted?
Does she call them cinnamon rolls...or sticky buns?
Would she mention the regular who orders six chocolate chip cookies every Friday?
Would she tell a story instead of making an announcement?
Those aren't prompt questions.
They're editorial ones.
That's editing.
The goal isn't to write a longer prompt.
It's to teach AI how you think.
Your favorite metaphors.
Your sentence rhythm.
The observations you can't help but make.
The jokes only you would tell.
Your voice isn't "warm."
Or "professional."
Or "friendly."
It's the thousands of tiny editorial decisions that make someone read a paragraph and think:
"I know exactly who wrote this."
That's why I don't start with prompts.
I start with people.
Because the best prompt isn't:
"Sound like me."
It's understanding what "me" actually means first.