Having jumped into the deep end of AI exploration, I’ve noticed something interesting about how to get useful responses…

Turns out, AI is no different from us regular humans. It follows the GIGO principle too – you know – Garbage in, Garbage out.

Specifically, that means if you are not clear in your requests (prompting), you won’t get the response you want.

Ever had a frustrating conversation where someone just didn’t get it? AI has the same problem. But instead of getting annoyed at a chatbot, we can flip the script and learn from it. AI holds up a mirror to how we communicate—and it’s got some surprisingly useful lessons for us.

Here are five communication insights AI can teach us (and how you can apply them right now).

1. Context is everything.

AI needs context to give useful answers. So do humans.

If you jump into a conversation without setting the scene, you’re asking for misunderstandings. Next time you send an email or kick off a meeting, take 10 seconds to ask yourself: “Does my audience have the right background to understand what I’m about to say?”

Clarity upfront = fewer back-and-forths.

2. We train others how to treat us

Speak to AI politely, and it mirrors that politeness. Speak rudely, and—well, it won’t argue, but humans will.

People take cues from how we communicate. If you’re warm and respectful, others respond in kind. If you’re short and impatient, don’t be surprised when that energy comes right back at you. Want better interactions? Lead by example.

3. Structure is Your Friend

Ever asked AI a jumbled question and got a confused answer? It’s because messy inputs = messy outputs. Same goes for people.

The clearer and more structured your message, the easier it is to follow. Whether you’re explaining an idea, giving feedback, or presenting in a meeting, structure your thoughts. Try this simple formula: Problem → Insight → Solution → Action.

It keeps your message tight, logical, and actionable.

4. Focus on What You Want, Not What You Don’t Want

Tell AI not to do something, and it often does it anyway. Humans are wired the same way. If you say, “Don’t think of chocolate,” what pops into your head? Chocolate.

Instead, focus on what you do want: “Don’t be late.” → “Please arrive on time.” “Stop interrupting.” → “Let’s take turns speaking.”

The way you frame things matters—especially in leadership and feedback.

5. Niceties Matter—Even From a Robot

Ever been thanked by an AI and felt oddly good about it? That’s because our brains react positively to kindness, even when we know it’s coming from a machine.

If a generic chatbot’s “Thank you!” can make us feel nice, imagine what genuine appreciation does in real human interactions. Simple acts like:

Acknowledging someone’s effort
Giving a quick compliment
Saying “I appreciate you”

These small moments build connection and make people feel valued.

BONUS tip: Confidence equals competence...use it wisely.

AI speaks with utter confidence. It sounds like an expert, but it’s not always right. Don’t be fooled by the clarity and confidence of its replies.

Humans fall for the same trap in conversations. Our brain tells us that confidence equals competence so the delivery determines credibility, more often than not. Use it wisely.

Try These Quick Experiments:

Context Check – Before your next meeting or email, ask: “Have I set enough context?”
Politeness Mirror – Try being extra warm and respectful today. Notice how others respond.
Structure Challenge – Next time you explain something, use: Problem → Insight → Solution → Action.
Positive Framing Test – Reframe a negative into a positive today. See how it lands.
Gratitude Boost – Thank three people today, even for small things. Notice the impact.
**BONUS: Confident Delivery – Speak with confidence and it will boost your competence. You’re welcome.