Embracing Generative AI: Transform Your Workday with These 5 Simple Strategies

Unlock the potential of AI to streamline tasks and enhance productivity, guided by expert insights from the ITS Summer Series.

Embracing Generative AI: A New Tool for Faculty and Staff

Not too long ago, the idea of generative artificial intelligence (AI) might have sounded like a plot twist from a sci-fi movie. Fast forward to today, and it’s not only real but also ready to enhance your daily workflow. In a recent Information Technology Services (ITS) Summer Series session, Technology Transformation Specialist Shannon Glennon provided invaluable insights into how generative AI can simplify tasks such as writing emails, scheduling meetings, and crafting presentations for faculty and staff who might be curious yet cautious about these tools.

Here are five easy ways to start leveraging generative AI to work smarter, not harder—no technology degree required!

1. Compose Emails With Professionalism and Poise

Crafting the perfect email can be time-consuming. AI tools like Microsoft Copilot can help you draft polished, professional emails in mere seconds. As Glennon puts it, “Start with what you’re looking to create. Be specific, provide context, and don’t hesitate to refine your prompt if you don’t get the results you’re looking for.”

Pro tip: Share a few of your past emails with the AI you’re using. This allows the tool to learn your tone and style, making your drafts feel even more personal.

2. Let AI Be Your Personal Assistant

Scheduling meetings can often feel like a game of ping-pong. With a Microsoft Copilot Work license, you can have the AI check Outlook calendars, propose time slots, and send invites—all without the usual back-and-forth. “It’s like having a scheduling sidekick who’s always hyper-attuned to your team’s availability,” Glennon explains.

By utilizing this feature, you can free up more time for other important tasks.

3. Create Docs, Decks, and Forms in a Flash

Whether you need a PowerPoint for an upcoming presentation or a form to gather student feedback, Copilot has you covered. Glennon mentions, “You can create a presentation from scratch or summarize a meeting transcript into a Word document for future reference—it’s all about saving time.”

Pro tip: Using Teams for meetings can make obtaining transcripts easier due to the integration across Microsoft 365 apps.

4. Summarize Longer, More Complex Source Material Into Concise Bullet Points

Drowning in lengthy documents? AI can help you distill complicated texts—such as research papers or policy reports—into concise summaries. You can even add a touch of fun to this process—try summarizing in the style of your favorite baseball announcer or Yoda!

Pro-tip: While AI is a powerful tool, it can occasionally return incorrect information. Always double-check its work.

5. Add Some Visual Flair

Integrating visuals into your presentations or social media posts has never been easier. AI tools can generate custom images in seconds, even if you lack design skills. “AI-generated images are great for making your content pop,” says Glennon. This is an excellent way to add visual interest to your reports and presentations without the need for graphic design expertise.

Ready to Get Started?

Before you jump in, remember that any University-owned data should only be entered after logging into University-approved AI tools and platforms using your syr.edu or g.syr.edu credentials. As Glennon aptly concludes, “Generative AI isn’t just a trend; it’s a tool. And like any tool, it’s all about how you use it.”

Bonus: Stay in the Loop with ITS Resources

To further support your AI journey, consider subscribing to the AI Insights newsletter for periodic tips, demos, and updates. Additionally, check out past training session videos or register for upcoming sessions, such as:

• July 29: Interactive Video Learning with PlayPosit
• Aug. 12: Orange Access: Modernizing Identity Management

Embrace the power of generative AI and transform how you work today!