april 2023

Me: Write the opening of a column on leadership in security in the style of Michael Gips.

ChatGPT: Security is a critical aspect of modern society, affecting both individuals and organizations alike. Effective security requires a combination of technology, process and people, with leadership playing a pivotal role in determining the success of any security program. In this column, we will explore why leadership is so important in the field of security and what it takes to be an effective security leader.

I expected to stump the AI by asking it to write in my style. Instead, it ignored that proviso. What it produced was generic, albeit accurate, textbook fodder. Let’s try a more pointed query.

Me: Write the conclusion of column about what ChatGPT means for leadership in the security profession.

ChatGPT: In conclusion, ChatGPT has the potential to revolutionize the way that leadership is approached in the security profession. Its ability to provide access to information, facilitate collaboration and communication, improve training and development, automate routine tasks, and provide opportunities for personal and professional growth, makes it a valuable tool for security professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve in an ever-changing security landscape.

OK, no surprise that the AI painted a glowing portrait of itself. The analysis is plausible and coherent, if clichéd. Let’s push a little harder.

Me: Write the opening of an engaging and poignant piece about the effect of ChatGPT on security leadership, using an unexpected but astute analogy or comparison.

ChatGPT: ChatGPT is like a Swiss Army Knife for security leaders. Its versatility and power can be a valuable asset in the hands of responsible leaders, but it must be used with caution to ensure that it does not do more harm than good.

That’s an acceptable analogy, if not exactly novel or poignant. Now for the critical test: I’ll ask it to write a piece similar to one of mine that Security magazine published in January (“You’re A Good Leadership Lesson, Charlie Brown”) and I’ll compare the results.

Me: Write an essay on how the Peanuts comic strip offers lessons to security leaders.

ChatGPT: The Peanuts comic strip, created by Charles M. Schulz, has been a staple of American pop culture for over half a century. Despite its lighthearted and comedic tone, the strip offers several important lessons that security leaders can apply to their work.

OK, pretty good start.

ChatGPT: The strip teaches the importance of having strong relationships with others. The relationships between the characters in Peanuts, such as the friendship between Charlie Brown and Linus, demonstrate the value of forming strong connections with others in order to better protect and defend against potential threats.

Uh oh. In the actual piece, I wrote that Schroeder’s “respect and show of friendship for Charlie Brown, especially on the baseball diamond, encourage others to accept Charlie Brown as a leader.” Score one for the AI.

ChatGPT: Second, the strip highlights the importance of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Characters like Charlie Brown, who perseveres despite setbacks and challenges, serve as a reminder to security leaders to remain steadfast in the face of difficult circumstances.

I’m starting to worry. Here’s what I wrote: “Though he can be gloomy and pensive, Charlie Brown is the eternal optimist. Every day is a new opportunity to kick the football that Lucy will probably whisk away at the last moment.”

ChatGPT: Next, the strip offers a lesson in the power of communication. Characters like Lucy, who often gives advice to others, demonstrate the importance of clear and effective communication in order to ensure everyone is on the same page and working towards a common goal.

Aha, a material disagreement! While Lucy has leadership qualities, communication isn’t a strength. Though direct, she is caustic, loudmouthed and self-centered. Her psychiatric advice is more withering than supportive.

While ChatGPT is fast and competent, it is currently no match for the human element in writing convincingly and entertainingly about leadership. My column should be safe.

Still, I won’t be shocked when I hear from new Security Editor ChatGPT: Mr. Gips, we understand this may come as a disappointment, but due to advancements in artificial intelligence, your column will now be written by an AI system. And Lucy’s advice is effective tough love, so there!

april 2023 / SECURITYMAGAZINE.COM