Many businesses today rely on artificial intelligence to help write their blogs or website copy.  It may be faster, but there can be problems.  My personal experience has shown me there is nothing better than adding a human touch to copy. Storytelling is key to attracting interest and empathy. I have found that AI-generated copy is very rote, boring, and impersonal.  Below are some samples of blogs written by me followed by one that is AI-generated. 

 

Example One: Trail Hiking

 

My Version: Heading Out on the Trail

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When fall comes, there is no greater gift I can give to myself than hiking in the cool, crisp air, taking in the brilliant red, yellow, and orange colors on the leaves of the trees. It is so rejuvenating to be out in nature. The quiet stillness calms my stress and breathing in fresh air is so invigorating.

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Autumn is my favorite time of year. It is also a popular time for hiking in the woods. However, before you hop on a trail, especially if you’re a beginner, make sure you are prepared for your adventure.

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Preplan and check the forecast. You want to pick a day when the weather will cooperate. Always carry enough water and healthy snacks. You will need to refresh and refuel along the way so you will have the energy to complete your trek. Make sure you have a paper trail map with you, as GPS service can be spotty or unavailable. Wear quality hiking shoes and socks, and take a hiking pole or two with you to help you navigate any rough terrain.

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For more hiking tips and how to find trails near you, contact me at Jillsnews@comcast.net. Be Aware and Be Prepared!

 

AI Version: Basic Trail Hiking Tips

 

For beginners venturing into trail hiking, a solid foundation of basic tips can enhance the overall experience. Firstly, meticulous planning is essential – research the chosen trail's difficulty level and terrain, and stay informed about the weather forecast. Equipping oneself with appropriate clothing, including sturdy hiking shoes and layered attire for varying conditions, ensures comfort and safety. Packing essentials such as an ample water supply, snacks, a first aid kit, a map, and a compass is crucial for unforeseen circumstances. Adhering to the Leave No Trace principles emphasizes responsible hiking, including staying on marked trails and carrying out all trash. Informing a friend or family member about your hiking plans and expected return time is a safety precaution. Commencing the hike early in the day allows for ample daylight exploration, and it's vital to hike at a pace that aligns with one's fitness level, taking breaks as needed. Being mindful of wildlife, maintaining a respectful distance, and avoiding wildlife disturbance contribute to the conservation of natural habitats.

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Example Two: Abandoned Online Shopping Carts

 

My Version:  Reverse the Curse of Abandoned Online Shopping Carts-How Retailers are Impacted

 

An abandoned online shopping cart is not so smart, at least according to online retailers. Marketing

folks point out a lot of dollars are lost when shoppers leave before checkout. This is why an automated email reminder is key to not letting those potential customers escape!

 

Online shopping is easy and convenient. I have browsed popular sites such as Amazon, Dicks,

Walmart, and other major retailers. It is a lot of fun to look at all of the ‘deals’ and add them to your

cart as if we have ‘play’ money in our bank accounts. Sometimes, we keep on clicking to get our cart to a minimal amount so we can get free shipping. Sounds nice, but we ponder...do I actually need all of those goodies? 

 

When it comes to checkout time, we begin to second guess ourselves. Perhaps, we should do more ‘shopping around’ to see if we can find a better deal.  We decide it’s time to take a break and get back to our shopping “spree” later. However, we often forget to finish what we started.  

 

This is where automated cart reminder emails can be so valuable. If you don’t have them in your bag

of marketing tricks, you need to consider adding them….

 

AI Version: Abandoned Online Shopping Carts

 

Abandoned shopping carts pose significant challenges for online retailers, impacting their financial performance and customer relationships. One of the most direct consequences is the loss of potential revenue, as customers who initiate the shopping process by adding items to their carts ultimately fail to complete the purchase. This not only results in a reduced conversion rate but also affects the return on investment for marketing efforts aimed at acquiring visitors. The reasons behind cart abandonment can range from unexpected costs and a complex checkout process to issues related to trust and user experience. Retailers face the task of analyzing data on abandoned carts to identify and address these issues, ultimately improving the overall online shopping experience. Moreover, frequent cart abandonment may erode customer trust and loyalty, making it crucial for retailers to implement recovery strategies, such as targeted emails and discounts, to encourage customers to complete their purchases. 

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Example Three: Volunteer Stress

 

My Version: Volunteer Stress Check: How to Stop the Burnout

 

Feeling stressed on the job? You are not alone. According to a 2021 Gallup report, American workers are among the most stressed out employees in the world.

Women were hit especially hard, with 62-percent of them reporting daily stress compared with 52-percent of men. Gender expectations for caregiving, ongoing child care challenges, and the high number of women in
low-paying service jobs were all contributing factors.
 

Now, imagine being a volunteer, working long hours, facing big challenges, and not getting paid a penny for your work.

There is no doubt that volunteering can be extremely rewarding. We hear countless stories of people’s hearts being changed, and of youth kicking and screaming over a community service requirement, only to report later that their volunteer service was ‘the best experience’ of their young lives. Volunteering is a great way to increase your self-esteem and satisfaction with life. It also combats depression by bringing people together.

 

However, our desire to serve can sometimes result in ‘too much of a good thing’.

Are you overwhelmed by your daily ‘to-do’ list and commitments? Do you have trouble saying, “no”? Are you feeling tired, sad, and stressed out? These are all signs of volunteer burnout…

 

AI Version: Signs of Stress Among Volunteers

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