As you know, FTVLive has been exploring the artificial intelligence programs out there and we very much believe that this will have a huge impact on Journalists’ futures.

I am bullish on AI and I think if you are ignoring it, you’re doing so at your own peril.

One FTVLive reader has been trying ChatGPT in his spare time, and he sent along this email:

“I have been testing OpenAI at home with TV news scripts, just for fun. I tell the bot to write in TV news style, to limit the copy to a read time of 25 seconds, and I enter a few basic facts. It spits out a script in ten seconds. By my own timing, the copy has been 24-27 seconds of read time.

The bot even adds "stay with us for more on this developing story" or "stay with us as this story develops" or "breaking news tonight" without a prompt.”

I urge all Journalists to start exploring the AI programs out there and see what they can do.

As you get better with “prompt engineering,” you will be amazed at just what AI can do.

To give you another example. Nexstar’s WKRN in Nashville has an opening for a morning Reporter job.

I asked ChatGPT to:

“Write a cover letter to Elbert Tucker the News Director at WKRN-TV in Nashville to apply for the Morning News Reporter job. Here is the job posting, so you know what they are looking for and the requirements.”

Within seconds, this is what ChatGPT replied with:

Dear Mr. Tucker,

I am writing to express my interest in the Morning News Reporter position at WKRN-TV in Nashville. As an experienced journalist and a passionate storyteller, I believe that I would make a valuable addition to your team.

With a Bachelor's degree in Broadcast Journalism and over three years of experience in news reporting, I have developed a keen eye for finding compelling stories and presenting them in a clear, engaging, and meaningful manner to news consumers. I am confident that my strong on-air presence, excellent communication skills, and proficiency with computers and other office equipment make me an ideal candidate for this position.

Throughout my career, I have honed my skills in conducting interviews, investigating events, and gathering information through research and attendance at various functions. I am also experienced in pitching stories to news managers and producers that are relevant to the local community. Additionally, I am well-versed in reviewing copy, correcting errors in content, grammar, and punctuation, and following prescribed editorial style and formatting guidelines.

I have a strong live presence in the field and am comfortable working with photographers to ensure that news events and reports are shot and edited effectively. I also have experience producing and presenting reports for all platforms, including the web and other eMedia platforms, while ensuring that all content meets company standards for journalistic integrity and production quality.

Moreover, I am well-versed in interacting with viewers/users on social media sites, performing special projects, and handling multiple tasks simultaneously while meeting deadlines.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my experience and skills can contribute to WKRN-TV's Morning News program.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Look how it pulls the key phrases out of the job posting and includes them in the cover letter. How long would it take for you to type this out and send it?

It took ChatGPT about 10 seconds total time.

Again, your company might not like it, your boss likely doesn’t understand it, but you should take the time to learn and work with AI.

I can assure you that your future depends on it.