I work in technical sales.
Last week, one of our execs used ChatGPT to create a business value assessment for a prospect (basically, why should this prospective customer choose our tech for their business needs). The data was good—but the language was impersonal, mechanical, and didn’t include the kind of terminology that would resonate with these business folks. The exec’s boss noted these concerns while we were reviewing our two part preso+demo plan (I’m the demo-er) and said “hey, Erica is a writer, get her to look it over and get it adjusted to be more relatable.”
It was quick work for us to retool the language. The director was pleased with the new version, and the presentation was incredibly well-received by the customer. They even asked to get a copy of the BVA to share internally. We’re now in contract negotiations with that prospect.
Our director spent ten minutes reviewing that document on our team meeting this afternoon emphasizing the importance of writing and editing skills and warning the team not to rely entirely on AI because it doesn’t understand customers the same way a human can.
Writing skills are important. Editing skills are important. If you are young, please hear me when I tell you that putting in the work to develop solid communication skills will benefit you in nearly ANY career path.
