In the dynamic world of business, innovation is the key to staying ahead – even when it can feel unfamiliar or threatening – and innovating requires education and up-skilling. 

This is something that the Economic Development Lead at TCDC, Mitchell King is passionate about providing for the Thames Coromandel. He initiated the recent ChatGPT Workshops out of the desire to find ways to support and activate innovation within the TCDC business community.

Mosaic Partners, led by Jeremy Suisted, an innovation specialist and educator, and Jamie Moore, a tech expert, were chosen to lead the workshops after a careful review of their expertise, bolstered by the fact that they were located within the Waikato region.  One of the presenters also grew up in Whangamata and that local link was seen as important when it comes to relating to our community.

These workshops were not just about acquiring new skills; it was a journey into the future of communication that left participants inspired and ready to lead in the age of conversational AI.

Jeremy and Jamie’s direct and clear communication style immediately resonated with the business audience at the Thames workshop. They effortlessly demystified the complexities of ChatGPT, ensuring that even those without extensive technical backgrounds could grasp the potential of this revolutionary technology within the two hour workshop. 

The workshop wasn’t just an educational event; it was a strategic investment in equipping Thames businesses with the tools to navigate the evolving digital landscape.

There was a wide range of Thames Coromandel businesses and community organisations represented including people from the Thames Business Association, the Coromandel Business Association, social media businesses, and the Council.

What set this ChatGPT workshop apart was its practical, hands-on approach.

Jeremy and Jamie guided the participants through real-world applications, ensuring that we not only understood the theory but could also immediately experience how ChatGPT could enhance our day-to-day business operations.

“We wanted our business community to get an opportunity to attend upskilling events that are not normally available here,’ said Mitch King. “Introducing workshops like ChatGPT is an important part of ensuring that we stay on a level playing field with our metropolitan neighbours, and we are very pleased with the extremely positive feedback we have received from the participants.”

On the day, participants were invited to dive in, almost immediately, and experiment with writing their own prompts, requesting ChatGPT provide relevant comms. This skill – dubbed Prompt Engineering – is what turns the use of ChatGPT from a novel entertainment into a useful business tool.

Participants used ChatGPT to write letters, brainstorm new income streams and write draft articles. 

The inspirational tone struck by the facilitators was a breath of fresh air. Jeremy and Jamie’s passion for the transformative power of ChatGPT was contagious, igniting a sense of curiosity and excitement among workshop participants.

The workshop provided a catalyst for creative thinking and pushed the boundaries of what’s possible – who knew that ChatGPT could provide strategic information for businesses, or suggest new income streams?

The collaborative nature of the workshop resonated well with the business community. Through group activities and discussions, Thames professionals had the opportunity to exchange ideas and insights, fostering a network of like-minded individuals ready to embrace the future of communication. Building such connections is invaluable for future collaborations and shared success.

Mosaic’s ChatGPT workshops were funded from within the Economic Development budget. 

The feedback has been extremely positive and TCDC is looking at running more workshops mid-February 2024. 

If you do any written communications in your business – including but not limited to letters, articles, social media posts, reports, strategies, and branding – consider attending this workshop. You’re likely to be blown away by how much time you can free up, and the kind of creative thinking you can access via ChatGPT.

Mosaic’s ChatGPT workshop is a must-attend for Thames Business professionals seeking to lead in the era of AI. Prepare to be enlightened, engaged, and empowered with the skills needed to stay ahead of the curve. This workshop isn’t just about technology; it’s about creativity, strategic thinking, networking, and expanding your ideas about what’s possible.

Thames Business, get ready to chart a course into the future of communication!