AI feels like magic sometimes—a quick email draft here, a polished meeting summary there. What’s not to love? But as smart as these tools are, they’re not foolproof. There are still moments when human judgment isn’t just preferred, it’s essential.
Here are six situations where AI gets it wrong, plus tips for AI and how to use AI correctly so you can avoid costly mistakes.
1. When someone's future is at stake
People aren’t data points, they are complex. Whether you’re giving feedback, handling sensitive issues, or making hiring decisions, most AI won’t understand nuance in the way humans do. It doesn’t understand morale, effort, or context. It just predicts patterns. AI can’t read the room.
How to use AI:
- Use it to organize thoughts or outline key points, not to write the final message.
- Ask yourself: Would I say this face-to-face? Does it sound like me—or a very polite robot?
- Always rewrite with human judgement before hitting send.
2. When brand voice really matters
Ever seen AI-generated copy that sounds like a press release written by a toaster? “Our innovative synergy optimizes operational paradigms.” Yeah… no.
Tone is everything in client emails, pitches, and complaint responses. AI might give you a starting point, but left unchecked, it can sound generic—or worse, off-brand, especially if you’re in a niche industry.
Tips for AI:
- Use AI for first drafts, then edit for voice and personality
- Read the content out loud. If you wouldn't say it to a customer, rewrite it.
- When tone is critical, human review is non-negotiable
3. When accuracy is non-negotiable
AI tools can hallucinate (yes, that's the polite term), and they sometimes make up facts with startling confidence. If you’re working on contracts, compliance documents, or safety procedures, don’t let AI have the final word. A small error can lead to big problems.
How to use AI correctly:
- Treat AI output as a draft, not the source of truth. Verify sources yourself or consult an expert.
- For legal, regulatory, or safety content, rely on experts, not bots.
4. When context is key
AI doesn’t know your company culture, recent leadership decisions, internal sensitivities or industry quirks, unless you explicitly tell it. It might suggest calling your congressman for a shipping delay—great advice if you’re in Boston, not Birmingham.
AI doesn't know your context. So, when you're writing something shaped by company culture, recent decisions, or subtle shifts in tone, don’t rely completely on AI.
Tips for AI:
- Treat AI like a new hire. Give clear context in your prompts — location, tone, audience, and be ready to provide training.
- Watch closely for language that feels misaligned or generic.
- If something feels off, trust your instincts and edit.
5. When timing is critical
AI is quick but doesn’t understand urgency, escalation, or real-time nuance. In a crisis—system outage, safety issue, social media blow-up—you need fast, accurate, human-led communication. AI can draft a neat statement, but it won’t grasp real-time sensitivities or the chain of events.
How to use AI:
- In high-pressure moments, write initial crisis communication yourself.
- Use AI later for polishing or creating summaries, not for the first response.
6. When data is sensitive
AI tools aren’t private notebooks. If you’re handling salaries, health info, or client details, don’t paste them into a public chatbot without checking your company’s policy.
Tips for AI:
- Follow your organization's AI and data security guidelines.
- If in doubt, keep sensitive data out of the bot.
- Check your internal AI use guidelines or ask IT for guidance.
Bottom line
AI is brilliant for saving time and sparking ideas, but it’s not a substitute for critical thinking, empathy, or expertise. The next time you’re tempted to let a chatbot draft that policy or sensitive email, pause. The bot might be fast—but you’ve got the final say.
