Test with real prompts: Use scenarios you commonly face. For example: "Draft an annual report summary for ELT stakeholders." "Write an executive summary for the initiative with key learnings relevant to people leaders."

Tweak as needed: If responses aren’t on point, refine your instructions or add new reference materials.

Test edge cases: Try tricky prompts to ensure the GPT handles them well. For instance: "Explain the impact of missing deadlines on overall performance and impact of this initiative."

8. Share the love:

Once you’re happy with your GPT:

Share it with your team:
Use the Share Link option (typically found in the settings or after ‘create’).
Send the link to your team if relevant so they can access and use your custom GPT.
Adjust permissions if necessary to control who can edit or use it.

Hot Tips for Success:

Start Small: Begin with clear, simple instructions and gradually add complexity as needed.

Train it on the work you are proud of: Upload your best work to ensure the GPT learns from strong references.

Leverage Feedback: Ask your team for feedback or any additional documents and information that could be added to improve responses.

Be Specific: The clearer your instructions and examples, the better your GPT will perform. Think about giving instructions to your child or an intern as a guide. If you don’t like what is being returned, ask ‘Try harder’! It works.

It’s an assistant, not Oscar Wilde: Use your GPT as a starting point, not end result.

Remember to tinker, try, test and refine your GPT as you go - and over time you’ll create a reliable assistant you can count on to help you and your team go faster, while retaining quality.

Personally, I’ve found that creating my custom GPT hasn’t just saved me time - it’s also brought back joy, thrill of experimentation and less stress. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching a tool you’ve built adapt to your needs and deliver results.

If you’re ready to explore more ways in which AI can transform the way you work, academyEX offers a wide range of AI and leadership learning opportunities. From AI Bootcamps, events, and professional development programmes, we’re here to equip you with future-ready skills. Contact me to find out more.

Custom GPTs as a Writing Assistant – My How-To Guide