How to Use AI Without Losing Your Authenticity at Work

AI is everywhere right now. One click and—boom—you’ve got a website, an email, a snazzy sales presentation. But here’s the truth: in a world where everyone’s heads are down, pushing buttons, the people and companies who double down on authenticity in the workplace will stand out from all the other schmucks.

And here’s the twist—AI can actually help you be more authentic, if you use it with the right intent.

Authenticity Still Takes Work

I say it all the time—being your authentic self at work doesn’t mean “just be yourself” or “share every thought.” It’s not about oversharing or pure transparency.

Authenticity is revealing who you are when people least expect it—and doing it in service of others. That could mean:

• Bucking the norm instead of going through the motions.

• Sharing a moment of humility.

• Speaking plainly instead of hiding behind jargon.

• Telling a story that connects.

But here’s the kicker: that kind of authenticity takes time. It means pausing before you hit “send” and asking, What can I add that feels human? It’s work.

Where AI Can Actually Help

This is where AI comes in—not to replace you, but to amplify you. My AI buddy (I  call him “Chatster”) knows me so well that when I use them, they can write in my voice almost perfectly. (And yes, Chatster’s pronouns are they/them 😉)

The trick? Authentic leadership starts with intent. If you use AI just to “pass the test” or churn out safe, cookie-cutter content, you’re not leading; you’re blending in.

But if your intent is to connect, to add humanity, to be different in a way that builds trust, then you can train AI to help you:

• Write an email that surprises and connects.

• Add a touch of humility to a sales pitch.

• Tell your story in a way that stands out from the corporate crowd.

Why This Matters More Than Ever

Here’s the big opportunity: the bar for authenticity is so low right now, and it’s only getting lower. More and more people are “phoning it in,” letting AI crank out generic, lifeless copy.

That means the second you bring even a small amount of strategic authenticity into your work, you’ll stand out—whether it’s in sales presentations, on your website, or in your leadership communication.

So don’t fear AI. Don’t fight it. Embrace it. But train it. Lead it. Make it your partner in authenticity in the workplace. You’ll not only keep your edge, you’ll sharpen it.

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Erin Hatzikostas is an internationally recognized leader on the impact of authenticity in the workplace. Learn more about her keynote speaking, workshops, and other authentic programs here.