When ChatGPT hit the web, the open AI tool sent the world into a futuristic tizzy. It can write so much freaking stuff for you — though it doesn’t cite where on the web it stole it from. It can create schedules, assess online trends, proofread, copy edit. I mean, I really don’t even know all the shit it can do, but I know that it can do work that I have been paid to do better as a writer and editor.
Did I ever think I would have to consider changing careers in my 40s because robots stole my job? I mean, I guess. But last summer, as a freelancer who works on contract, I lost almost all of my steady work. Sure, there were unrelated budget cuts, but my steady work was work that AI can do — social media, email writing, even grant writing. The complicated stuff that requires a human brain and heart usually arrives as one-off projects that come along infrequently.
The cold comfort of AI complimenting my writing when I ask it to proofread my cover letters, saying things like “this is well written,” or noting that “writer Liz Tracy” “brings a thoughtful and engaging perspective to her subjects” isn’t enough to get me through these tough times. I need my career back, or a new one.
I didn’t mind the hustle of the freelance life because it meant I didn’t have to apply to jobs — people often came to me — and I didn’t have to commit to working on one thing every day. Variety is the spice of life, is it not? But I think that my days of making sustainable money as a freelance writer are gone. Maybe the robot can find me a job next?
Anyway, I asked ChatGPT to write a blog about AI stealing writer’s jobs. The robot could not have written a more boring article. But I guess it’s informative? Change or die, it says.
ChatGPT’s article on erasing an industry:
“The Rise of AI and the Changing Landscape of Writing Jobs
In recent years, the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked debates across various industries, and one area where its impact is especially notable is in writing. From generating articles to crafting marketing copy, AI tools are increasingly taking on tasks traditionally performed by human writers. While this technological shift brings numerous benefits, it also raises concerns about job displacement and the future of the writing profession.
The AI Writing Revolution
AI writing tools have come a long way. Models like OpenAI’s GPT-4 can produce text that closely mimics human writing, offering coherent, contextually relevant content at an unprecedented speed. These tools can generate blog posts, create engaging headlines, draft reports, and even write novels. For businesses, this means cost-effective content creation and faster turnaround times. For individuals, it means an array of tools that can assist with everything from brainstorming ideas to polishing final drafts.
The Upsides of AI in Writing
- Efficiency and Productivity: AI can handle repetitive tasks, such as generating standard reports or creating product descriptions, freeing human writers to focus on more creative and complex projects. This efficiency can lead to increased productivity and allow for quicker content updates.
- Cost Savings: For many organizations, AI tools present a more affordable option compared to hiring a full-time writer or freelancer. This cost-saving aspect can be particularly appealing for startups and small businesses with limited budgets.
- Accessibility and Assistance: AI writing tools can aid non-writers in crafting content. For instance, a business owner without writing expertise can still produce polished marketing materials with the help of AI, leveling the playing field.
The Challenges and Concerns
- Job Displacement: As AI writing tools become more proficient, there is a legitimate concern that they might replace human writers, particularly for tasks that are formulaic or standardized. This could lead to job losses and reduced opportunities for those who rely on writing as their primary source of income.
- Quality and Authenticity: While AI can produce technically correct text, it often lacks the nuance, creativity, and personal touch that human writers bring to their work. There’s a risk that over-reliance on AI could lead to content that feels generic or lacks depth.
- Ethical Considerations: The use of AI in writing raises ethical questions about authorship and intellectual property. For example, if an AI generates a piece of writing, who owns the rights to that content? Additionally, the potential for misuse, such as creating misleading information or deepfakes, is a growing concern.
Navigating the Future
So, what does the future hold for writers in an AI-dominated world? While AI is undoubtedly changing the landscape, there are several ways for writers to adapt and thrive:
- Embrace the Technology: Writers can use AI tools to enhance their own productivity and creativity. By integrating AI into their workflows, writers can leverage these tools to handle mundane tasks while focusing on high-value work.
- Develop Unique Skills: Human writers excel in areas where AI struggles, such as creating deeply emotional narratives, providing personal insights, and offering original perspectives. Developing these unique skills can help writers stand out in an increasingly automated industry.
- Stay Informed and Adapt: The field of AI is rapidly evolving, and staying informed about the latest developments can help writers adapt to new tools and opportunities. Continuous learning and flexibility will be key to staying relevant.
- Advocate for Fair Practices: Writers and industry professionals can work together to ensure that AI is used ethically and that fair practices are established regarding authorship and intellectual property.
Conclusion
The rise of AI in writing is both exciting and challenging. While it presents opportunities for greater efficiency and innovation, it also brings concerns about job displacement and the quality of content. For writers, adapting to this new landscape involves embracing technology, honing unique skills, and advocating for fair practices. By navigating these changes thoughtfully, writers can continue to find their place in a world where AI is an increasingly significant player.”
Follow Liz Tracy’s Substack, Not a Serious Life, for not-serious takes on pop culture, our aging bodies, and more.
