INTRODUCTION
Since its launch in late 2022, ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot, is the fastest-growing app in the world, with more than 100 million users in just two months, according to a report in SimilarWeb. While its applications seem endless, it raises the question of how the tool can be used in the PR industry. Here are some ways how to use ChatGPT for your public relations efforts.
CREATE CONTENT
Use ChatGPT for routine tasks. As public relations professionals, we are constantly writing press releases, website copy, blog articles and social media posts. This AI tool can help generate content ideas and the content itself.
For example, you can ask ChatGPT to write a blog article or press release about a certain topic. When I typed in “write a press release announcing a startup series A funding,” it took the tool less than one minute to write a seven-paragraph press release. While there are many holes to fill in (e.g. startup description, key messages, a quotation from the CEO, etc.), ChatGPT gives you a good starting point.
DRAFT PITCH IDEAS
ChatGPT can help PR professionals create a short media pitch. For example, ask ChatGPT to “write a public relations pitch to a travel journalist.” After a few seconds, the tool created a six-paragraph pitch. (I personally think this is a bit too long, as I like to keep my pitches two to three paragraphs long.)
Once you receive your pitch, make sure to add your personal/brand voice and ensure relevancy. In the pitch to the travel journalist example, I would’ve added how the journalist can get connected with the company spokesperson and a bit about their experience. I also would have added a call-to-action, such as seeing if the reporter is interested in an interview or would like additional info.