How to avoid ‘AI slop’ (without giving up AI)

LinkedIn is full of posts complaining about ‘AI slop’ – and plenty of examples of it as well.

But it is possible to keep the benefits of using AI (speed, help with structure, new angles) and still sound like you.

If you give an agent a generic prompt, you'll get back generic output. What makes the difference is knowing how to work with it and how you edit.

We’ve been experimenting with different ways of working and have turned this into a simple 6-step toolkit.

Here’s the short version:

👉 1.  Start with your intent
Not just “write a post” – include who it’s for and what you’re trying to achieve.

👉 2. Add your lived experience
Add real details from your life or work so the output isn’t just a bland template.

👉 3. Choose your workflow
Decide if you or the agent will do the first draft – both are valid, pick what works best for you (and for that piece of work).

👉 4. Co-edit, don’t copy-paste
Use the output as a starting point – refine over a few iterations, and always do the final pass yourself.

👉 5. Create a voice guide
Share examples of your tone, what you avoid, and phrases that sound like you – it makes a big difference.

👉 6. Ask for a next step
Don't stop at just doing the one thing – ask for a follow-up idea to explore deeper or push it 10% further.

Here’s the full version: 6 steps to avoid ‘AI slop’ and keep your work yours