The 10 Most Common Mistakes in Briefs—and How to Fix Them

If you’re not getting the results you expected from Hype AI, the brief might be to blame. Your brief is the blueprint for your content or visual, and small errors or vague language can make a big difference in what Hype AI produces.

Here are the 10 most common mistakes we see in briefs—along with exactly how to fix them.

1. Writing a Vague Brief

Mistake:
"Make a post about our new protein bar."

Fix:
Be specific. Include product features, audience, tone, and context.
“Create a high-energy Instagram post for fitness-focused Gen Z consumers launching our new chocolate peanut protein bar. Focus on flavor and recovery.”

2. Forgetting to Select a CustomerDNA Persona

Mistake:
Skipping the persona selection or using the wrong one.

Fix:
Choose a persona that aligns with the goal of the content. If you’re not sure, ask HypeChat for help picking the best one.

3. Leaving the BrandDNA Deactivated

Mistake:
Generating content without applying BrandDNA results in generic output.

Fix:
Always activate BrandDNA before generating. It applies your tone, visual style, and voice automatically.

4. Using Technical or Internal Jargon

Mistake:
“Our SKU 4872B-Rev2 is now shelf-ready for velocity testing.”

Fix:
Write how you’d speak to your customer.
“Our new protein bar is now available in stores and ready to help shoppers refuel faster.”

5. Overloading the Brief with Too Many Instructions

Mistake:
Trying to cram every idea, call to action, and product spec into one brief.

Fix:
Break it up. Create multiple briefs for each variation or goal. Hype AI works best with clear, focused intent.

6. Forgetting the Visual Direction

Mistake:
Creating product visuals with no setting, lighting, or style guidance.

Fix:
Use real-world context.
“Chocolate-covered almonds on a wooden table in soft morning light with natural shadows.”

Or upload a reference image directly in the brief to guide Hype AI.

7. Not Mentioning the Channel or Format

Mistake:
“Make a post about our sale.”

Fix:
Tell Hype AI where the content will live.
“Create a short, high-contrast Instagram Story post promoting our 20% off sale.”

8. Copying a Previous Brief Without Updating It

Mistake:
Reusing an old brief without updating the goal, audience, or product.

Fix:
Use your old brief as a template, but always update key details—especially when testing a new campaign or creative angle.

9. Missing the Emotional Hook

Mistake:
“Highlight product specs and ingredients.”

Fix:
Tap into emotion.
“Focus on how our bars help busy parents stay fueled through their day without sacrificing taste or nutrition.”

10. Not Iterating on the Results

Mistake:
Generating once and giving up if it’s not perfect.

Fix:
Think of AI content like photography—it may take a few shots to get the one you love. Make small edits, try variations, or refine your brief. You’ll get better, faster results with each round.

Final Thought

A good brief is more than just instructions—it’s a creative handshake between you and Hype AI. The clearer and more intentional you are, the better the results you’ll get. Avoid these common pitfalls, and you’ll spend less time editing—and more time publishing great content.

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