3 More ChatGPT Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

chatgpt and ai Aug 08, 2025

 

In the last post, we looked at four big mistakes people make with ChatGPT — things like using one-line prompts or treating it like Google.

 

But that’s not the whole story!

 

Here are three more common errors I see professionals making — and these ones can cost you serious time, damage trust, or worse… breach client confidentiality.

 

Let’s fix that.

 

Watch the full video on this topic here.

 

Mistake #5: Ignoring ChatGPT’s Creative Strengths

 

Too many people use ChatGPT just for admin tasks. Email replies. Meeting agendas. That sort of thing.

 

Now, those are useful — but they only scratch the surface.

 

Here’s what ChatGPT is really great at:

  • Brainstorming marketing ideas
  • Generating unique blog hooks
  • Suggesting pricing strategies
  • Coming up with KPIs for your clients
  • Drafting outlines, plans, SOPs

 

If you run an accounting firm, think about this… You’re regularly advising clients. You need quick, insightful suggestions — but tailored to their industry.

 

This is where ChatGPT shines.

 

Take one of my favourite prompts: the KPI Creator. You just plug in the business type and website, and it gives you:

  • A full dashboard of tailored KPIs
  • A detailed table of what to measure, why, and how
  • Advice you can use in client meetings

 

All in under 2 minutes. So don’t leave creativity on the table — use ChatGPT to do the thinking with you.

 

Mistake #6: Not Reviewing or Refining the Output

 

This is a big one. Some people treat ChatGPT like a vending machine. Type in a prompt… copy the answer… send it off. That’s risky.

 

Let me be clear: you should never send ChatGPT’s output to a client without reviewing it first.

 

There’s a phrase for this — it’s called “human in the loop.”

 

AI is a tool to accelerate your thinking, not replace your judgment.

 

Here’s what I recommend:

  • Always scan for tone, accuracy, and clarity
  • Ask ChatGPT to revise if something feels off
  • Use your expertise to adjust wording or check logic
  • For technical or legal topics, get a second opinion if needed

 

I once asked ChatGPT to explain tax implications on IP valuations. It gave a decent answer — but I spotted two areas that didn’t feel quite right.

 

So I asked a more specific follow-up. Sure enough, it agreed the earlier advice could be improved.

 

Use your brain. Guide the AI. That’s how you get the best results.

 

Mistake #7: Breaching Client Confidentiality

 

This one’s serious — and it’s easy to do accidentally.

 

If you upload a client spreadsheet, a contract, or an internal document… do you have permission?

 

You must be careful with:

  • Personal data
  • Client names
  • Financial reports
  • Internal documents
  • Anything non-public

 

Here’s what to do instead:

  • Remove names and sensitive info
  • Use anonymised versions
  • Rely on public domain data (like websites)
  • Get explicit permission — ideally in writing

 

Also, every accounting firm should now have an AI policy. Include a section in your engagement letters that covers:

  • The use of AI tools
  • The kind of data you may process
  • How you protect client information

 

Even if you’re just experimenting, do this now.

 

Pro Tip

 

Never send AI-generated output to clients without a second look. Even the best prompt can produce weak advice if you don’t guide it — and protect your clients.

 

FAQ

 

Can I upload financial data to ChatGPT?

Only if it’s anonymised or the client has given clear, written permission. Use redacted or sample data where possible.

 

What’s the best creative use of ChatGPT for accountants?

Building KPI dashboards, writing SOPs, and generating marketing content. All faster with prompt templates.

 

Do I need an AI policy for my firm?

Yes. It protects you, your team, and your clients. Start with a short statement in your engagement letters and build from there.

 

Want to Learn More?

 

If you want to stay ahead of AI and learn how to use it in your firm…

 

👉 Join my free community: ChatGPT for Accountants & Bookkeepers.

 

You’ll get:

  • News and Updates in the world of AI
  • Free Video Training Courses
  • Reminders and Recordings of Live Training Events
  • A growing Community of forward-thinking professionals

 

Final Thoughts

 

ChatGPT can save you hours — but only if you use it wisely.

 

To recap, avoid these 3 mistakes:

  1. Limiting its creativity — It’s not just for admin. Use it for marketing, content, strategy, and ideation.
  2. Skipping the review step — Always refine the output before using it in real-world decisions.
  3. Ignoring privacy risks — Treat client data with care. Build an AI policy. Get permission.

 

Check out the full video on this topic here.

 


 

Plus, join our AI and ChatGPT for Accountants and Bookkeepers Skool Community. This community is your free ticket to confidently navigate and master AI. Join today and future-proof your firm.

 

Wishing you every success on your pricing journey

 

The Value Pricing Academy Team 

 

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