What sets powerful communication apart in the age of AI? Terry Szuplat, one of President Obama’s longest-serving speechwriters, argues that only human speakers can create the authenticity and emotional resonance that audiences crave.
“Please do not let AI write your presentation”, Szuplat urges his listeners. But that doesn’t mean the technology is useless – far from it, he makes clear. “Should I use AI to help with my presentation, to help with my speech?”, Szuplat asks. “The answer there is absolutely, yes, you can do this. I do it myself.”
AI can be a great tool for brainstorming ideas, creating outlines, finding fresh quotes, and simplifying complex concepts, for example. But crucially, AI should enhance preparation, not replace the fundamental human elements that audiences seek.
“When you give a speech, when you give a presentation, ask yourself, what can you do that’s original?”, he advises. “AI is not original, by design”, he adds. “It’s not creating new content.”
Watch the video for more valuable insights into connecting with audiences. Szuplat also taught a workshop at the DLD Future Hub conference. The recording is available on our Youtube channel.
