How I Use AI to Support (Not Replace) My Writing Process, and Why It’s Key for the Future of Work

Recently, someone asked me if I use AI to assist in writing my articles. My answer? Absolutely! I firmly believe that anyone not using AI to enhance their work may be missing out on an incredible tool that boosts productivity and sharpens creativity. But there’s a balance, AI shouldn’t replace personal input. Let me explain why.

How AI Supports My Writing Process

When I sit down to write, I don’t just let AI take over. Here’s how I integrate tools like ChatGPT to streamline my writing:

1. Information Gathering: I start by collecting sources, whether it’s data, articles, or industry reports. For example, if I’m writing about the latest AML regulations, I’ll pull insights from trusted resources.
2. Blending Personal Experience: I feed in my resume and personal experiences relevant to the topic at hand. For instance, when I write about transaction monitoring or financial crime, I input what I’ve done in my role as a Senior Analyst in Financial Crime. My experiences give the article depth and authenticity that AI can’t create on its own.
3. Polishing and Formatting: Once my ideas are structured, GPT helps me refine the article, making it cleaner and more professional. It might rewrite certain sections for clarity, but the essence, the heart of my voice and insights, remains mine.

This is how AI should be used: as a collaborator, not as a substitute for human thought and experience.

Why Personal Experience Matters

I often see articles that lack personality, content that feels as though it was churned out by a machine. That’s the difference personal experience makes. My articles reflect the real challenges and successes I’ve faced in the AML sector. I can discuss what it’s like to deal with regulatory changes or how specific tools (like Refinitiv or Simple KYC) impact the day-to-day operations in the casino industry.

Without that human touch, the article would feel generic, missing the nuances that only someone with hands-on experience can provide. AI can refine, but it can’t replace the depth that comes from living through something firsthand.

Industries That Can Benefit from GPT-Style AI

The potential for AI like GPT isn’t limited to writing, it’s transforming industries across the board. Here are a few sectors that stand to gain:

1. Finance & Compliance: In sectors like banking, AML, and compliance, AI can sift through millions of transactions and identify suspicious patterns far faster than any human team. AI assists with data processing, risk management, and even regulatory compliance, helping companies stay ahead of financial crime.
2. Healthcare: AI is already making waves in diagnostics and medical research. Imagine being able to analyse thousands of patient records to detect early signs of disease that human eyes might miss. GPT-like AI can assist doctors by generating insights from vast data sets, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
3. Customer Service: GPT-powered chatbots can provide 24/7 support, handling common inquiries or complaints efficiently. While they won’t replace human interaction, they can enhance the speed and accuracy of service, freeing up human agents for more complex tasks.
4. Education: In the classroom, GPT-style AI could help educators create personalized lesson plans or assist students in understanding difficult concepts. It can analyse student performance data to suggest targeted learning strategies.

Why Some Still View AI as a "Bad Word"

Despite the promise AI holds, many people are still hesitant to adopt it, largely due to misconceptions and fear. Some view AI as a threat to jobs or assume it will make people obsolete. But this mindset misses the bigger picture: AI isn’t here to replace humans but to amplify what we can do.

For example, AI can take on tedious tasks, like data processing or formatting, allowing people to focus on creative, strategic work. Those who shy away from AI often see it as an all-or-nothing proposition, but in reality, AI is a tool that should be used in collaboration with human effort, not in opposition to it.

Another concern is security. People worry about data privacy and the risks of sensitive information being leaked or misused. While these concerns are valid, the key is using AI responsibly, particularly in industries like finance and healthcare, where data privacy is critical. That’s why AI shouldn’t be relied on for tasks involving highly sensitive data without strict controls and oversight.

AI: Enhancing Work, Not Replacing It

The key to unlocking AI’s potential is balance. By letting AI handle certain tasks, like processing data, generating initial drafts, or automating mundane workflows, professionals can focus on the more meaningful work: strategizing, storytelling, and creating real human connections.

That’s the beauty of tools like ChatGPT. Used correctly, AI can help us achieve more in less time without losing the personal touch that makes our work stand out.

The Future Is Here, How Will You Use It?

AI isn’t the enemy, it’s an opportunity. Whether you’re in finance, healthcare, or customer service, integrating AI into your workflow can boost productivity and creativity. But always remember, the human element is irreplaceable. The best results come when we combine our unique experiences with the power of AI.

If you’re still hesitant about AI, my advice is this: try it. Start by using AI for smaller tasks and see how it can assist in your work. The more you embrace it as a tool, the more value you’ll get from it. After all, we’re not in competition with AI, we’re its biggest advantage.

What are your thoughts on using AI? Are you using it to enhance your work, or are you still on the fence? Let’s discuss!

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