How to write with AI so it still sounds like you

Why AI writing sounds the same

Without specific guidance, models default to safe, average phrasing: balanced lists, predictable openers, and vague enthusiasm. The fix is to supply specifics the model can't guess.

Give it a voice guide

A short voice guide improves drafts noticeably.

Voice: direct, practical, slightly informal. Short sentences. Indian English spelling.
Audience: HR managers at mid-size companies.
Avoid: “In today's fast-paced world”, “unlock”, “game-changer”, exclamation marks.
Sample of my writing: [paste 2 paragraphs you wrote].
Task: Draft a 300-word LinkedIn post about [topic] with one concrete example from [situation].

Use AI for the parts it's good at

Outlines, alternative openings, tightening long paragraphs, and checking clarity are good uses. Opinions, stories, and examples should come from you — they're what readers remember.

Edit in two passes

First pass: facts and substance — is everything true, specific, and yours? Second pass: voice — read aloud and rewrite anything you wouldn't say.

Signs a draft still sounds generic

Watch for these patterns when editing.

1. Openers that restate the question or talk about “today's world”.
2. Lists of three abstract benefits with no example behind any of them.
3. Hedged, balanced conclusions that don't commit to a view.
4. The same sentence length and rhythm throughout.

Worked example: from generic to personal

A generic draft might say: “Effective onboarding is crucial for employee success and retention.” An edited version from an HR lead says: “Last year, two of our new sales hires left before their third month. Both said the same thing in exit interviews: nobody told them who to ask for help.”

The second version is specific, credible, and memorable, because it contains something only the author knows. Use AI to structure and draft; then replace general statements with your own observations wherever you can.