In practice, we often see organizations enthusiastically start with a smart tool like Microsoft 365 Copilot, but then get stuck on the question: “How do I utilize it smartly?‘ Because: without clear input, you sometimes get output that is just not helpful. As your digital assistant don't know what you want, fails to give you peace of mind, overview and simplicity.

We believe that ICT more humane should be: clear, reliable, hassle-free. That's why we give you here 7 practical prompting tips that help you really use Copilot productively. You'll get a grip on the tool, creating peace of mind for yourself and your team.

1. Be clear and specific

Make sure your question to Copilot is concrete. Give the purpose, context, sources and desired form.

Example: “Generate three bullet points in preparation for meeting with client X about brand campaign. Use emails and Teams chats since May. Write in clear language so I know quickly where we stand.”

The more specific you are, the better the results. Without it, the answers often become vague or we still have to refine.

2. Keep the conversation going

Don't decide all at once and be done with it. Work with Copilot.

• Start with a broad question, then refine.
• Ask for a summary first, then probe for details.
• Ask: “Create this in 200 words maximum”, or: “Provide a roadmap in 5 points”. By using it iteratively, you will get more out of the tool and the result will better fit your needs.

3. Use examples

Show what you mean: show a tone, style or sample text.

Example: “Here is the tone I am looking for: ‘Dear team, as a reminder, the deadline for submitting project reports has been moved to Aug. 15. Please make sure all documents are updated and submitted in a timely manner. If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch.’”

With such an example, Copilot understands your style and tone-of-voice more quickly.

4. Provide as much detail as possible

Context is king. Who reads it? Why? What do you want to achieve? What style? What sources?

For example, “Write an internal memo for employees, business tone, explain that working hours are changing starting May 1. Include specific times and impact on the team.”

More input means fewer rounds of correction - and thus more time for you.

5. Ask for feedback

See Copilot not as a one-time black-box, but as a partner. Question:

• “Can you make this more personal?”
• “Can you make the call-to-action clearer?” That way, you better tailor the output to your organization, your employees or your customers.

6. Always check the result

Even though Copilot is powerful, it is not infallible.

We always advise:

• Check for facts, grammar, style and relevance.
• Be alert to false assumptions or expressions. You remain responsible for what is sent or published. Reliability and continuity are our top priorities.

7. Be polite

Yes, really. You help the tool by phrasing in a friendly and professional manner. It may sound like a detail, but a clear, orderly prompt works better than slang or vague language. It also suits our style: down-to-earth, human, plain.

Additional tips for optimal use

• Add your writing guide or house style at “Custom Instructions,” so the tool stays in your sound.
• Ask explicitly about furnishing: “Make changes bold” or “Use an enumeration”.
• Remember: Copilot only knows the context within the current conversation. Start a new chat for a new topic.
• Pay attention to your punctuation and capitalization - yes, even that makes a difference.

Why this also works for you

At Analyst ICT, we are happy to help you set up the right digital workplace. With our strong - including as a Microsoft Solution Partner and Apple Consultant Network member - we guarantee structure, quality and simplicity. Combine this tooling with our approach and you are guaranteed:

• Functional: clear understanding, usable output, fair price level
• Emotional: fewer worries, peace of mind for your team, people-oriented ICT
• Continuity: solid foundation, no piecemeal stuff
• Safety: ISO 9001, ISO 27001 and NEN 7510 certified

Would you like to join us in discovering how to make Copilot and other smart workplaces simply working makes in your organization? Then get in touch - we provide the connection between people and technology, so you can focus on what really matters.