Prefer to listen on the go? Click the link below!
Ever get one of those emails that’s clearly trying to sound personal, but totally misses it? Like it knows your name, maybe, but not much else?
I recently signed up for freeze-dried cat food for our new kitties. The cats love it (thankfully), but half of the emails I get from the company ask how my dogs are enjoying their meals.
We don’t have dogs. Never have.
It’s not a big deal. But it’s one of those tiny moments that makes you pause and think, “I’m a number.” and not care about the survey they sent for your “valuable feedback”. Someone set up an automation without checking the details, and now their message feels off. Not helpful. Not human.
What’s the Big Deal?
Automations are supposed to save us time, help us stay consistent, and create a better experience for clients. But when they go wrong, even just a little, they have the opposite effect.
They can make a client feel like a number. Or worse, like your business doesn’t really see them at all.
4 Ways to Keep “The Human” in Automations
If you’re using email automations, CRMs, or even A.I. tools in your business (which you probably are…or should be), here are a few simple ways to avoid those “cringe” moments:
1. Double-check your data. Make sure the info you’re collecting is actually being used in the right places. If someone chooses “cat owner” when they sign up, they shouldn’t get dog food promos. Ever.
2. Segment your list, even if it’s small. Even a few smart tags can make a big difference in how relevant your messages feel. You don’t need a giant list to make personalization work well.
3. Test your emails like a real human. Send every automated sequence to yourself. Read it as if you were the one receiving it. Does it sound like something you’d actually say? Does it make sense?
4. Review it every now and then. Your business evolves. So should your automations. Set a reminder to check your sequences at least quarterly. Just like you’d update your website or refresh your headshot.
Want a Second Set of Eyes?
Automations don’t have to be robotic. They can actually sound like you, and support your clients in a thoughtful, consistent way.
If you’ve been wondering whether your systems could use a little cleanup, I’d love to help. Feel free to reach out for a second opinion or some no-pressure ideas to make your A.I. and automations feel more human and helpful.
Because when the tech works with you, you get more time to do what you’re actually great at…connecting with real people.