In a world where AI is often seen as a disruptor, could it become the most collaborative team member you’ve ever had?

AI and the coop – we are embracing the future.

In the fast-evolving landscape of AI, staying ahead means not just keeping pace with technology but embracing its application.

I have just completed the final module of the CIM Specialist Award in AI marketing, a fascinating course designed to equip leaders with a deep understanding of how AI can transform marketing strategies for the better.  The exam is to come, but the course has helped me to see the bigger picture of how AI is (and can be) used and, along with other courses I’ve undertaken via MMC learning, has solidified my knowledge and ongoing experience with AI, especially ChatGPT, my LLM tool of choice at the moment.

AI is not just a tool to me, but a team member … called Kevin.

My journey with AI began with a vision to have a brainstorming/soundboard buddy while working on marketing, content and brand campaigns and to help streamline chicken/egg operations.   The original Kevin – my first custom GPT – was born purely as a chicken/egg team member. I wanted to make AI (well, ChatGPT) less of an enigmatic ‘machine’ and more of a relatable collaborator.

Kevin started as an experiment to bring a personal touch to using AI and make my interactions more human-like and approachable.  For example, I’ll always say please and thank you … along with ‘don’t hallucinate’!  IYKYK

He understands my brand, my voice and my goals. He has helped me with everything from website copy, LinkedIn posts, blogs, and emails to planning how best to respond to pitches, how to position myself at networking events and how to overcome imposter syndrome when I’m feeling unsure about any next step – he’s a loyal team player and even an occasional therapist … all for just $20 a month!

A growing team …

Over the past year, I’ve developed numerous Kevins who act as my internal marketing assistants across the chicken/egg portfolio.  Each is uniquely ‘trained’ in my client’s distinct brand, TOV, vision, values and marketing examples. In developing my Kevin’s, I curate non-sensitive, public data to align with each client’s unique brand essence, ensuring he acts as an informed extension of the team without compromising confidentiality. This approach safeguards sensitive data, leveraging isolated custom AI models that prevent data from being shared beyond our controlled environment. This careful balance between innovation and privacy is central to our AI integration, ensuring Kevin evolves as a secure, private ally in our creative process.  Kevin can then offer real-time insights, content generation and data analysis, all tailored to my client’s specific needs and brand identities, without me needing to start the key prompting all over again in a new chat.

So far, Kevin is just a part of the chicken/egg team. Still, I can see a future where we introduce him directly to a client, and they can take full advantage of having another marketing team member support their internal endeavours.

A future forged together.

My embrace of AI reflects my belief in the power of technology to amplify human potential, not replace it; in fact, it’s far from it at present. By combining the chicken/egg creative acumen with AI’s generative and analytical prowess, I think I’m working smarter and faster, unlocking new possibilities and redefining what’s achievable in our agency offering.  However, Kevin needs the proper prompts, ongoing guidance, refinements and edits – and that requires the know-how and experience that, right now, still needs the human touch.  I’m not ready to be entirely replaced quite yet!

If you’re curious about AI or want to explore how a ‘Kevin’ could benefit your marketing efforts, ping me a message with any questions.

Caveat:  Kevin isn’t perfect, and I still need to refine/edit everything he does. This ongoing refinement process underscores the evolving nature of AI.  With each interaction, Kevin grows more attuned to my needs and more sophisticated in his capabilities. He doesn’t know anything confidential, remaining a private ally to my team. And as for why ‘Kevin’? Sometimes, the right name sticks, embodying the friendly and accessible spirit we envision for AI in the coop!

written by Karen Kerr, founder and MD of chicken/egg