Writing Like a Human (with a Little Help from AI)

We’ve all seen what happens when AI writes our messages for us:

“Hi [First Name], I’m reaching out because I noticed you’re in [Industry] and I help people just like you achieve [Result]…”

It’s technically “correct.”
It uses the right variables.
It checks the personalization box.

But somehow, it still sounds like it came from a robot.
Because it did.

Automation isn’t the problem - tone is

AI can do a lot of things. But unless we guide it well, it tends to fall back on a default voice: polished, generic, and just salesy enough to trigger an eye-roll.

So if you’re using AI to write LinkedIn outreach (which, let’s be honest, you probably are or should be) - the key isn’t in writing for you. It’s writing with you.

You’re the human. The AI just needs better instructions.

Want to sound more like a person? Start with better prompts.

The tone of your outreach is shaped before a single word is written - right at the prompt stage.

Instead of asking your AI tool to “write a LinkedIn message for lead generation,” try prompts like:

1. “Write this like a kind, curious person just reaching out. No urgency, no pitch.”

Helps remove that tight, sales-y language and creates space for real curiosity.

2. “Use a tone that feels thoughtful, warm, and a little informal. Like someone who’s done their homework.”

This balances professionalism with approachability.

3. “Write a short message that assumes nothing, offers something small, and feels optional to respond to.”

This one’s great for removing pressure and creating a safe entry point.

4. “Avoid buzzwords. Keep it natural, like a DM you’d send to a smart friend who might be interested.”

Because no one wants to be ‘synergized into a strategic growth opportunity.’

5. “Write it like you’re planting a seed, not closing a deal.”

Good messaging starts conversations. Not transactions.

Here’s what that actually looks like

Traditional AI prompt → Traditional output:

Prompt: Write a LinkedIn message offering my AI automation tool to marketing teams.
Output:
“Hi Jordan, I work with marketing teams to streamline their outreach using AI. Our platform helps boost reply rates by 40%. Would you be open to a quick chat this week?”

Human-centered AI prompt → Human-feeling output:

Prompt: Write this like a calm, curious person who just wants to share something that might be helpful - no pressure.
Output:
“Hey Jordan - saw you’re leading growth over at [Company] and figured I’d share something that’s been useful for a few teams in a similar spot. No expectations at all—just thought it might be relevant.”

Same intention. Very different vibe.

AI can’t fake sincerity, but it can help you get there

When you give AI the right tone to aim for, it becomes a co-writer - not a shortcut.

If your message is going to be automated, at least let it feel like someone thoughtful is behind it. Someone who’s not just trying to squeeze you into a funnel. Someone who understands that timing, tone, and relevance matter.

A few extra prompt add-ons you can experiment with:

“Add a touch of humility - assume the person is busy and may not respond.”
“Write this as if you’re checking in with someone you respect, not trying to ‘close’ them.”
“Avoid sounding like a script. Add a sentence that makes it feel written just for them.”
“Write this for someone who gets 20 of these a week. How would you stand out without being louder?”

The goal isn’t to trick people into thinking it’s not automated.
The goal is to respect their attention and show up like someone worth replying to.

Use AI to save time.
Use prompts to keep it human.
That combo? It works.

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