Ban AI-generated mail: more simplicity in professional communication
2024-06-12 07:15
In this ever-accelerating digital world, the rise of AI-generated content, especially in professional communication, has brought both convenience and a loss of genuine human touch. As a SmolWeb enthusiast, I believe it’s time we push back against the growing tide of AI-generated mail and advocate for a return to simplicity and authenticity.
The problem with AI-generated emails
AI-generated emails often come off as overly formal and detached, lacking the personal touch that is crucial in professional relationships. Here’s why we should consider banning them:
- Lack of authenticity: AI-generated emails tend to be generic, lacking the personal nuances that come with human-written communication.
- Complexity and misunderstanding: these emails can be overly complex and filled with jargon, making them difficult to understand without further clarification.
- Promotes AI dependence: relying on AI to write and then to summarize emails fosters a cycle of dependence, which can stifle our critical thinking and writing skills.
The case for simple, Human-crafted communication
We should aim to make our communication straightforward and easy to understand. Here’s how simple, text-based emails can transform professional interactions:
- Clarity and efficiency: simple, direct communication reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings and saves time for both sender and recipient.
- Human touch: writing your own emails adds a personal touch, which is essential in building trust and maintaining professional relationships.
- Reduced cognitive load: simple emails are easier to read and process, making it less likely that the recipient will need to use an AI tool to summarize or interpret the content.
How to craft effective, simple emails
- Use plain language: avoid jargon and complex phrases. Write as if you’re explaining the topic to someone without any background knowledge.
- Be concise: get to the point quickly. Use short sentences and paragraphs.
- Utilize bullet points: break down information into bullet points to enhance readability.
- Direct communication: write as if you’re having a conversation. This approach keeps your email engaging and easy to follow.
Adopt the simplicity of the SmolWeb
The SmolWeb movement promotes a simpler, more sustainable web, and this principle can be extended to our email communication. By adopting simplicity, we reduce cognitive overload, foster genuine connections, and encourage clear, direct interactions. To go further, you can also format your mail in text/plain format, reducing their size (I mean volume).
Let’s make a conscious effort to avoid AI-generated mail and shift towards a more human, straightforward approach to communication. It’s a small change that can have a big impact on how we connect and collaborate in our professional lives.
What are your thoughts on AI-generated emails? Share your experiences and ideas on how we can improve communication in the comments below!