It was autumn 2024.

I’m in the car with my youngest son, who is in his thirties. The kind of person who is efficient, confident, and always comfortable with technology. You know the type—the ones who seem to understand everything before you’ve even finished asking the question.

“Mom, you should ask ChatGPT.”

“Hmm… I’m not sure.”

“Try it. You’ve got nothing to lose.”

And then a thought crossed my mind: what if, for once, I didn’t do everything on my own? I type: “Hello Chat, can you write my short bio? My name is Julie Blais Comeau and I am an etiquette specialist.”

A few seconds later—wow. It was clear, structured, and confident. This artificial intelligence (AI) had presented me better than I would have done myself. “Thank you very much, Chat!” And immediately, politely (of course, it already knows me), it replies: “You’re welcome, Julie. I can also write a shorter, more impactful version.”

Both delighted and slightly unsettled, I wondered: am I delegating my voice?

Since then, I’ve been using AI to structure my ideas, rephrase certain passages, clarify a message, or explore different directions. And against all expectations, I realized something important: I’m not losing my voice—I’m refining it. With its help, I simultaneously improve my voice in order to better follow my path.

But—and there is a “but”—where is the line between efficiency and authenticity? Between ethics and etiquette?

Inspired by a recent Microsoft survey on the evolving etiquette of the workplace, I began observing the new behaviours emerging around us. With one question in mind: how can we use artificial intelligence to elevate ourselves… without losing our humanity?

TALKING TO AI: DETAIL… OR REVELATION?

We sometimes believe that a vague request is enough to produce a brilliant answer. Not quite.

Misstep: writing three words and expecting a miracle. The more vague your request, the more vague the response will be. AI works best when it understands your intention, your context, and the person you are addressing.

Best practice: clarify your objective. Provide context. Describe the tone you want and the profile of the person receiving the message. Learning to formulate a clear request forces us to think more carefully and consider our audience more intentionally. That is one of the benefits of AI.

Reminder: AI is not magic. It is revealing. And above all, in any professional conversation, confidential information must remain confidential and should not be shared with AI. When in doubt, always confirm with the appropriate people or resources within your organization, such as Human Resources or IT services.

THE DELICATE EMAIL… OR THE ART OF NOT AVOIDING CONVERSATION

You receive that email. You know the one—it makes you react, flush, breathe deeply, and reread it many times…

Misstep: asking AI to respond diplomatically. Yes, it will likely be impeccable. Too impeccable. Tempting, yes—but be careful. A perfectly polished message can quickly feel cold, distant, or disengaged. A bit like some political speeches: well-phrased, but without real human presence.

Best practice: reread and adjust the wording to match your natural speaking style, adding a sentence that sounds like you, such as: “Thank you for your message, I took the time to reflect on it.” And often, replacing an email with a real face-to-face conversation is the best way to build trust and harmony. My recommendation: for emotionally charged or difficult situations, gather your courage and meet in person. Because conversing is choosing humanity. And yes, AI can still help you prepare for that conversation.

THE MEETING… AND THE ILLUSION OF MULTITASKING

You’re overwhelmed and want to delegate your note-taking to AI so you can focus on something else.

Misstep: being elsewhere while physically present. Efficient? Perhaps. But it shows. Even if you are there, others will notice your absent gaze, delayed responses, and lack of engagement.

Best practice: be transparent and ensure everyone agrees: “I will activate transcription to help with note-taking—does that work for everyone?” And above all, stay engaged. If you were invited, it’s not only to produce a summary—it’s because people believe you have something to contribute or need to hear what is being discussed.

SOCIAL MESSAGES: BETWEEN SPEED AND INTENTION

We live in a time where AI can write thank-you notes, congratulations, or invitations in seconds.

Misstep: letting AI write something perfect but generic. Sending a message without soul will still be perceived as such, no matter how well written it is.

Best practice: for thank-you messages, use AI as a base—but always add personal details and mention a memorable moment or a specific aspect of the gift or gesture. Always personalize interpersonal messages. Add a shared memory, a lived detail, a thoughtful observation. An imperfect but sincere message will always touch more deeply than a flawless but empty one.

In the end, since my first experience with it, I’ve noticed that I’ve become more strategic, more intentional, and more creative in my writing, my interactions, and my collaborations. It feels as if I now have access to a discreet tutor—always available, never tired, aligned with my needs, and even helping me become more empathetic.

And you? How have you learned to work with AI?

***

If you want to master the art of communicating with impact—with or without AI—Julie helps individuals and teams evolve with confidence, credibility, and authenticity in a constantly changing world.

Through coaching, conferences, or interactive, dynamic, and tailored workshops, she helps you refine your presence, navigate delicate situations, and elevate your impact both at work and in social settings. Whether your goal is to build confidence, improve communication, or develop a strong and consistent professional image, Julie adapts to your needs.

To collaborate or book a workshop: julie@etiquettejulie.com.

Julie Blais Comeau is a leading authority on etiquette in Quebec and across Canada, widely recognized and respected. A sought-after media contributor, energizing speaker, and inspiring author, she leads etiquettejulie.com, a company dedicated to the art of human relations. Work with her and discover how she can help you shine in every aspect of your life. With Julie as your guide, you will learn to navigate every situation with confidence and elegance, while remaining true to yourself.

Published and translated May 29, 2026, Mitsou Magazine (c) Julie Blais Comeau