“Our imperfections reveal that we’re human.”
As AI makes it easier to polish our words, how do we prove that our communication is actually our own? For Matt Abrahams, the answer isn’t to avoid AI, but to protect the distinctly human thinking, experiences, and imperfections that build trust. In a special episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Lorraine K. Lee takes over the host chair to interview Matt about the updated edition of Think Faster, Talk Smarter. They discuss Matt’s TRUST framework for demonstrating authenticity, the risk of outsourcing empathy to AI, and ways to use AI as a practice partner rather than a replacement for your own thinking.
Takeaways:
- Your humanness is an advantage in the age of AI. Personal experiences, real-time thinking, and even small imperfections can signal authenticity and help others trust that your ideas and words are genuinely your own.
- Use AI to strengthen your communication skills, not replace them. Treating AI as a thought partner, coach, or practice tool can help you prepare and build empathy while keeping your own judgment and reflection at the center.
Activity:
- Keep it human. Take one message you’ve used AI to help draft and add something only you could provide: a personal example, a specific observation, or your own perspective. Use AI to polish the message without polishing away your voice.
Episode Reference Links:
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Chapters:
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (01:15) - The AI Authenticity Crisis
- (03:13) - The TRUST Framework
- (08:25) - AI and the Empathy Paradox
- (10:40) - Using AI to Build Empathy
- (12:10) - AI as a Communication Coach
- (15:01) - Managing Conflict with CLEAR
- (18:10) - Meet AI Matt
- (21:01) - The Final Three Questions
- (25:07) - Conclusion
