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5 Ways We Used AI For Work Last Week: February 2025 Edition

Diane Gilson
Posted by Diane Gilson on Feb 4, 2025 12:35:29 PM

Editor's note: This is the fourth article in a series. Read the third article here.

AI is transforming how we work, offering tools that save time, enhance clarity, and spark new ideas.

Over the past week, we used AI to tackle challenges ranging from side-by-side comparisons to client insights, goal setting, and even perfecting our presentations. In this article, you’ll see how AI helped us save hours while improving the quality of our work—and how it can do the same for you.

1. Comparing a potential new solution to an existing system

Type: Side-by-side comparison. (From: COO) 

Example: When a question arose about the “Microsoft Phone” application/service and whether it might benefit us, I asked ChatGPT to compare it with our current digital phone application. Initially, ChatGPT provided an insightful overview, but then I requested a side-by-side comparison, which made the information much easier to consume.  

Result and reflection: ChatGPT’s ability to generate a clear comparison table saved me significant time compared to manually researching and distilling information from multiple sources. 

Estimated time savings: 1 hour

2. Insights about a potential client 

Type: Gaining deeper insights as part of a needs assessment. (From: CEO & Founder) 

Example prompt in italics: “We have a potential client we’d like to learn more about. Here’s their website: [Insert Link]. Please review the site and summarize what this company does, how it contributes value to society and the economy, and how it might position itself for the future (tools, techniques, etc.)”  

Result and reflection: ChatGPT provided a thorough overview and actionable insights for the company’s future positioning. These insights will serve as a valuable foundation for the upcoming needs assessment meeting.

Note & tip: Splitting complex questions into consecutive prompts often yields better results, as I learned while refining this request. (For example, first ask it to review and summarize information from the website and then ask for ideas about positioning for the future.) 

Estimated time savings: 2.5–3 hours.

ChatGPT’s analysis streamlined research, created actionable insights, and formatted the response for clarity.

3. Personal success process

Type: Setting personal success goals for 2025. (From: QBO Level 2 ProAdvisor) 

Example: I asked about tools and suggestions for setting and achieving professional and personal goals, such as financial planning, legal arrangements and training. 

Result and reflection:  ChatGPT introduced the SMART goals framework (Specific—Measurable— Achievable—Relevant—Time-bound) and recommended tools like Trello or Asana for tracking milestones. It also provided practical advice for achieving objectives, such as setting quarterly goals and consulting professionals when necessary. 

Estimated time savings: 5-7 hours.  

In the past, I would have spent hours formulating a plan for how to get organized for 2025 and researching the various program options available. ChatGPT streamlined defining and planning goals, which allowed me to focus on execution rather than setup.

4. Critique my PowerPoint slides

Type: Presentation review and feedback. (From: CEO & Founder) 

Example prompt in italics: “I’ve created a PowerPoint presentation (attached as a PDF). Please act as a presentation coach and review the content for logical flow and audience comprehension. Provide slide-specific suggestions and improvements.”  

Result and reflection: ChatGPT delivered a detailed critique that I copied into a three-page Word document, including sections and subsections for “Strengths,” “Logical Flow Analysis” and “Slide-Specific Analysis.” Its suggestions were practical and focused on enhancing clarity and audience engagement.

Additional preparation time: ChatGPT estimated an extra 6–8 hours for me to make the suggested changes. However, it also noted that if I invest time to refine the presentation, it will enhance its value, increase attendee understanding, and improve potential program sales. 

Estimated time savings: 

  • For an external Reviewer’s Time: 2–3 hours saved.
  • Attendee Time: 8–12 hours saved, assuming 50 attendees (who save 10-15 minutes each as they can more quickly understand key points) 

5. iPhone do-not-disturb hack

Type: Customizing iPhone settings. (From: COO) 

Example: I wanted specific contacts enabled to bypass the “Do Not Disturb” setting on my iPhone in case of emergencies. ChatGPT provided easy-to-follow instructions for modifying the settings.   

Result and reflection: ChatGPT’s guidance helped me quickly configure this setting, offering peace of mind while ensuring I remain accessible when needed. Now I can rest easy (even while resting easy), knowing “my people” can get in touch in an emergency.  

Estimated time savings: 30 minutes

Don’t be left behind when it comes to AI 

The possibilities with AI are endless, and it’s quickly becoming a must-have tool in every professional’s toolkit. Whether streamlining tasks, gaining deeper insights, or refining your work, AI can help you stay ahead of the curve.  

Start exploring how AI can transform your daily work. Ensure you’re not just keeping up – but, instead, that you’re leading the way!

Topics: Operational Advisory, Artificial Intelligence


 

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