After countless conversations with founders about how they're using AI, I've realized something crucial—we're all figuring this out as we go, but we're not all sharing what's working. As someone focused on helping B2B companies identify and capture revenue opportunities, I've spent months experimenting with AI tools to streamline my workflow, turning one sales call into multiple pieces of content, and using AI as my personal copy editor. The big shift came from treating AI as a practical tool to get things done, not a magical solution.
What I'm about to share isn't theoretical - it's my actual workflow for transforming complex business challenges into practical execution frameworks. Whether you're working on sales/marketing integration, trade show strategy, or scaling revenue, these are the practical strategies I use every day to drive measurable ROI while maintaining authenticity.
In This Guide
I'll walk you through five core frameworks I use regularly, along with the specific prompts that make them work. Each framework serves a distinct purpose:
Transform your website from an information dump into a compelling narrative that actually converts. I'll show you the exact prompts I use to maintain authenticity while leveraging AI for structure and clarity.
2. Blog SEO Optimization
Stop writing content that disappears into the void. Learn how to create posts that both rank well and genuinely help your readers, using AI to enhance (not replace) your expertise.
3. Value-Benefit-Feature (V-B-F)
One of the biggest mistakes I see in B2B messaging is leading with features instead of value. This framework comes from Emma Stratton’s book Make it Punchy. It helps you flip the script, and I'll show you how AI can help you maintain this focus consistently.
4. LinkedIn Article Creation
LinkedIn has become crucial for B2B thought leadership, but standing out requires more than good insights. I'll share the prompts I use to craft articles that drive engagement while maintaining my authentic voice.
5. SMIT (Single Most Important Thing)
This is another framework I learned from Emma Stratton. In a world of information overload, the ability to distill your message down to its essential core is invaluable. Learn how to use AI to identify and emphasize the one key takeaway that will actually impact decision-making.
How to Use This Guide
Before diving into the frameworks, let's get practical about setting up your AI workflow. You'll need:
A primary AI tool (I use Claude for content creation)
Google Docs for prompt management
A system for organizing your content projects
The key is treating these frameworks as starting points, not rigid rules. I'll show you how to adapt them to your specific needs while maintaining your authentic voice.
1. StoryBrand Website Copy Framework
Tips for Using This Framework
You're going to want to use a project that contains assets about your products or services in order for it to have enough background information to successfully create this content.
Ideas for content to add to projects:
Customer personas
Sales collateral
Competitor research
Market research or industry trends
Emails or call transcripts that speak to the product or service
Main Prompt
Please generate compelling website copy for [COMPANY NAME] following the StoryBrand framework. Use the following information to create clear, customer-focused content that drives action.
Target Audience: [Define your ideal customer] Industry: [Specify your industry] Primary Product/Service: [Brief description] Years in Business: [Number] Key Differentiator: [What makes you unique]
Generate copy for each section following these specific guidelines:
Header Section
Create a concise headline (max 10 words) that clearly states:
What you offer
The primary benefit to customers
A clear call-to-action
Include image direction describing the ideal hero shot
Stakes Section
Create two contrasting paragraphs:
Paint a picture of the customer's current challenges without your solution
Describe the positive transformation after using your solution Focus on both emotional and practical implications
Value Proposition
Generate three distinct benefit statements:
[Primary Benefit] with matching icon suggestion
[Secondary Benefit] with matching icon suggestion
[Tertiary Benefit] with matching icon suggestion Each benefit should be exactly two sentences: Problem → Solution
Guide Section
Create:
Two authority statements highlighting:
Specific achievements (numbers/statistics)
Industry recognition or credentials
Two empathy statements that:
Acknowledge customer frustrations
Show understanding of their challenges
Plan Section
Develop a simple 3-step process:
Initial Step: [How customers begin]
Middle Step: [What happens next]
Final Step: [How they achieve success] Each step should be exactly one sentence and action-oriented
Explanatory Paragraph
Fill in the following template with compelling details:
"At [COMPANY NAME] we know you want to be [IDENTITY TRANSFORMATION]. In order to do that you need [MAIN NEED]. The problem is [EXTERNAL PROBLEM], which makes you feel [INTERNAL PROBLEM]. We believe [PHILOSOPHICAL STATEMENT].
We understand [EMPATHY STATEMENT] which is why we [AUTHORITY STATEMENT].
Here's how we do it:
[STEP ONE]
[STEP TWO]
[STEP THREE]
So, [CALL TO ACTION]. And in the meantime, download our [LEAD MAGNET] so you can stop [PAIN POINT] and start [DESIRED OUTCOME]."
Lead Generator
Create:
Lead magnet title
Bullet-point list of 3-5 key takeaways
Compelling description (50 words max)
Call-to-action for download
Junk Drawer Section
Generate a structured list of essential footer elements:
Contact information
Social media links
Legal requirements
Additional resources
FAQ topics
Style Guidelines
Use active voice
Keep sentences under 20 words
Maintain consistent tone throughout
Focus on benefits over features
Use power words that evoke emotion
Include clear calls-to-action
Write at 8th-grade reading level
Output Format
Organize content in clearly labeled sections
Include suggested placement for visual elements
Mark all calls-to-action in bold
Indicate where custom images/icons should be placed
2. Blog SEO Framework
Tips for Using This Framework
You're going to need more than just your product information to create SEO-optimized content that actually ranks and provides value. Here's what to include in your AI project:
Recent customer calls or feedback (helps align content with real pain points)
Industry research and trending topics
Competitor blog analysis (what's working in your space)
Your existing high-performing content
Specific examples and case studies from your experience
Key search terms your customers actually use (not just what you think they use)
Pro Tip: Before writing any blog post, spend 15 minutes searching your target keyword and reading the top 3 results. This gives you a baseline for what you need to exceed.
Main Prompt
Please write a blog post using the following instructions:
Topic: [DEFINE MAIN TOPIC/SUBJECT] Primary Keyword: [TARGET KEYWORD] Secondary Keywords: [2-3 RELATED KEYWORDS] User Intent: [WHAT IS THE READER TRYING TO ACCOMPLISH] Target Word Count: 1,200-2,400 words (based on search intent and topic depth)
Content Outline/Key Points to Cover: [INSERT BULLET POINTS OF MAIN IDEAS, CONCEPTS, OR SECTIONS YOU WANT INCLUDED]
Supporting Materials:
[LIST ANY RESEARCH, DATA, STATISTICS TO REFERENCE]
[LIST ANY EXISTING CONTENT TO DRAW FROM]
[LIST ANY EXAMPLES OR CASE STUDIES TO INCLUDE]
Key Requirements
Demonstrate E-E-A-T:
Show first-hand experience with the topic
Include clear sourcing and evidence
Demonstrate deep subject matter expertise
Link to authoritative external sources
Address common questions and concerns comprehensively
Audience Understanding:
The audience is [DEFINE TARGET AUDIENCE]
Reference [AUDIENCE RESEARCH/DATA] to understand their key pain points: [LIST 2-3 MAIN PAIN POINTS]
Voice and Style:
Review [EXAMPLE CONTENT] to understand and maintain established voice and style
The tone should be [DESCRIBE TONE - e.g. professional but conversational, technical but accessible, etc.]
SEO-optimized Headline Requirements (50-60 characters):
Includes the primary keyword naturally
Clearly communicates value
Avoids clickbait or exaggeration
Drives clicks from search results
Content Structure Requirements:
Begin with a compelling introduction that previews value
Use descriptive H2 and H3 subheadings with keywords where natural
Keep paragraphs short (2-3 sentences maximum)
Use bullet points and numbered lists for scannability
Include transition words between sections
Use white space effectively
Break up text with relevant images, charts, or graphics
Content Quality Requirements:
Share practical, actionable advice
Include specific examples and case studies
Provide original analysis or insights
Use data and statistics to support claims
Address potential questions or objections
Add relevant context where needed
Focus on long-term value over quick tricks
Featured Snippet Optimization:
Include clear definitions
Create step-by-step instructions
Add FAQ section targeting related queries
Use proper markup and formatting
Conclusion Requirements:
Summarizes key takeaways
Provides clear next steps
Includes relevant call-to-action
Encourages engagement
Meta Elements:
Write compelling meta description (150-160 characters)
Create SEO-friendly URL structure
Add descriptive alt text to images
Include schema markup where relevant
Quality Check Requirements:
Provides substantial value compared to other search results
Demonstrates clear expertise and knowledge
Shows first-hand experience with the topic
Is well-researched and accurate
Includes proper citations
Maintains consistent quality throughout
Is free from spelling and grammar errors
Avoids AI-generated or thin content
Uses clear, professional language
3. Value-Benefit-Feature (V-B-F) Framework
Tips for Using This Framework
The V-B-F framework works best when you have rich customer insights to draw from. Include in your project:
Customer success stories
Sales call transcripts
Support ticket themes
Competitor positioning
Product feedback and feature requests
Win/loss analysis
Pro Tip: Start by asking Claude to write out all your features, then force yourself to answer "So what?" three times for each one (or ask Claude “so what?” and get ready for some unexpected inspiration). This brainstorm helps you climb from features to benefits to true value.
Main Prompt
Core Principles
Start with Value Proposition (V):
Focus on the customer's broader goals and aspirations
Address what they ultimately want to achieve
Connect to larger business objectives
Example format: "Generate more revenue, faster"
Follow with Benefits (B):
Highlight new capabilities or improvements customers gain
Focus on what customers can do, be, or feel
Make it action-oriented and outcome-focused
Example format: "Reduce manual work and errors"
End with Features (F):
Describe specific product capabilities or characteristics
Keep technical details in supporting role
Only mention features that directly enable the benefits
Example format: "AI-powered revenue predictions"
Writing Guidelines
Use these techniques for clear, approachable messaging:
Write at conversational level ("Write like you speak")
Prioritize clarity over cleverness
Use simple words over complex ones:
"Do" instead of "Accomplish"
"Use" instead of "Utilize"
"Now" instead of "Currently"
"Give" instead of "Provide"
Message Altitude Check
Ensure messaging hits the right level:
Too low: Focuses only on technical features
Too high: Makes vague, general claims
Just right: Connects specific capabilities to clear outcomes
Validation Questions
Test your messaging by asking:
Does it lead with customer goals rather than product features?
Can you clearly trace features to benefits to broader value?
Would a customer immediately understand what's in it for them?
Is the language simple and conversational?
Are technical details supporting rather than leading?
Writing Process
Start by asking "How does this help the reader?"
Define clear communication goals
Write initial draft focusing on V-B-F order
Review and simplify language
Test clarity by reading aloud
Refine until message is clear and compelling
Remember: The goal is to show customers what they can achieve, not just list what your product does. Keep asking "So what?" until you connect features to meaningful customer outcomes.
V-B-F Creation Prompt
When I ask you to create messaging using the V-B-F framework, please:
Structure your response in this exact order:
Value Proposition: State the customer's broader business goal or aspiration
Benefits: Explain what new things the customer can do/be/feel
Features: List the specific product capabilities that enable these benefits
Follow these writing rules:
Use conversational language
Write at an 8th-grade reading level
Keep sentences short and clear
Avoid jargon and buzzwords
Use active voice
For each piece of messaging you create, first state:
Which part is the Value Proposition
Which parts are the Benefits
Which parts are the Features
Then ask yourself "So what?" after each feature and benefit to ensure you're connecting it to meaningful customer outcomes.
Example: Value = Eat healthier every day Benefit + Feature = Make vitamin-packed smoothies in a snap with our commercial-grade blades.
4. LinkedIn Article Framework
Tips for Using This Framework
LinkedIn success comes from consistency in both posting and voice. Your project should include:
Your best-performing LinkedIn posts
Common themes from your customer conversations
Industry trends you have a unique perspective on
Personal experiences that illustrate your points
Comments and engagement from previous posts
Audience questions and feedback
Pro Tip: Before writing any LinkedIn article, review your last three highest-performing posts. What themes or approaches resonated with your audience?
Main Prompt
Core Instructions
Please write a LinkedIn article using the following guidelines:
Audience Understanding:
The audience I'm writing for is XXXX
Reference [ICP DOCUMENT] and [SURVEY RESULTS] to understand challenges
Consider their frame of mind and specific pain points
Voice and Style:
Review previous LinkedIn posts for tone consistency
Maintain conversational, passionate style
Include personal anecdotes or experiences
Content Structure:
Follow provided outline
Add narrative elements
Polish and enhance content flow
Headline Requirements:
Create compelling headline (40-49 characters)
Clearly convey article's value
Attract attention effectively
Formatting Requirements:
Begin with captivating introduction (story or question)
Use clear subheadings
Keep paragraphs short (2-3 sentences)
Include bullet points for key takeaways
Target 1,500-2,000 words total
Voice Maintenance:
Use conversational yet professional tone
Include personal experiences where relevant
Add occasional humor or wit
Keep reader engaged throughout
Content Value:
Provide actionable advice
Include practical insights
Ensure immediate applicability
Conclusion Elements:
End with strong call-to-action
Encourage comments and engagement
Invite experience sharing
Promote connection
Bio Section:
Add brief, relevant bio
Highlight expertise
Invite further connection
Overall Quality:
Demonstrate thought leadership
Maintain approachability
Provide clear value to audience
5. SMIT (Single Most Important Thing) Framework
Tips for Using This Framework
The SMIT framework is my go-to for refining landing pages or long-form content. Sometimes Claude can be a bit verbose, almost repetitive, so wrapping up your content creation by running your output through this prompt is deceptively simple way to create impactful content. Include in your project:
Voice of customer data
Sales objections and how you overcome them
Customer success metrics
Competitive differentiators
Key product benefits
Most common customer questions
Pro Tip: Run the V-B-F Framework first to really hone in on the value you’re creating. Then add that output + the content you’re trying to revise to Claude and run this prompt. The output is as close as I’ve got to capturing lightning in a bottle on my content creation journey.
Main Prompt
Core Question
"If my reader/viewer only remembers ONE thing after consuming this content, what should it be?"
Evaluation Framework
For any piece of content, identify the SMIT by evaluating these three potential areas:
Customer Goal & Product Solution
What specific goal is your customer trying to achieve?
How does your product uniquely help them reach that goal?
Example: "Our AI-powered software streamlines your workflow by automating manual tasks"
Key Customer Benefit
What tangible value does your customer receive?
What pain point is eliminated or gain achieved?
Example: "Save 10 hours per week by eliminating manual data entry"
Customer Pain/Frustration Resolution
What specific frustration does your customer experience?
How do you resolve or eliminate that frustration?
Example: "No more late nights spent on tedious manual tasks"
Application Process
Brain Dump
Write out all potential messages and benefits
Don't filter or edit at this stage
Get everything onto the page
Identify Your SMIT
Review your brain dump through the evaluation framework above
Select the ONE message that would provide most value to your customer
Remember: If they forget everything else, what's the one thing they should remember?
Refine & Support
Rewrite your content focusing on your SMIT
Remove any information that doesn't directly support your SMIT
Move tangential ideas to separate content pieces
Key Principles
Focus on Customer Impact
Frame your SMIT around what the customer can do, be, or feel
Avoid focusing on product features or technical capabilities
Connect to real human experiences and emotions
Keep It Simple
Resist the urge to add "just one more thing"
If adding information doesn't strengthen your SMIT, remove it
Remember: clarity trumps comprehensiveness
Use Customer Language
Draw from actual customer conversations and feedback
Write how your customers talk about their challenges
Avoid jargon, buzzwords, and technical terminology
Validation Checklist
Before finalizing your content, verify: □ Can you clearly state your SMIT in one sentence? □ Does every element of your content support this SMIT? □ Have you removed all tangential information? □ Is it written in customer-focused language? □ Would your customer immediately understand the value?
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Trying to cover too many benefits or features
Leading with technical capabilities rather than customer outcomes
Using industry jargon instead of customer language
Burying your SMIT under supporting information
Being vague or abstract instead of specific and concrete
Example Transformation
BEFORE (Product-focused, multiple messages): "Our AI-powered platform leverages machine learning algorithms to provide real-time data analytics through intuitive dashboards with customizable reporting features and seamless integration capabilities."
AFTER (Customer-focused SMIT): "Stop wasting hours trying to make sense of your data - get the insights you need in seconds with dashboards anyone can understand."
Remember: The goal isn't to say everything - it's to say the ONE thing that matters most to your customer.
Taking Action: Your Next Steps
If you're like most B2B leaders I work with, you're probably thinking, "This all makes sense, but where do I start?" Here's my practical advice for implementing these frameworks in your business:
Start Small, But Start Today
Pick ONE framework that addresses your most pressing content need:
Need to clarify your website messaging? Start with StoryBrand
Trying to build thought leadership? Focus on LinkedIn Article framework
Working on product messaging? Begin with V-B-F
Create a simple project in your preferred AI tool (I use Claude or ChatGPT) with:
Your company background
A few examples of your writing style
Key customer pain points
Core value propositions
Run a test piece of content through your chosen framework. Don't aim for perfection - focus on learning the process.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Through my experiments with these frameworks, I've noticed a few places where people tend to get stuck:
Trying to use every framework at once instead of mastering one
Accepting AI output without reviewing it against your brand voice
Getting lost in endless refinements instead of shipping content
Forgetting to save successful prompts for future use
Making This Sustainable
The real value comes from building these frameworks into your regular workflow. Here's what works for me:
Keep a Google Doc of your most successful prompts
Schedule regular content creation blocks in your calendar
Build a simple review process to maintain quality
Track what resonates with your audience and adjust accordingly
Need Help Getting Started?
If you're looking for more guidance on implementing these frameworks or want to see examples of them in action, I share practical tips and real-world applications on LinkedIn. Connect with me there or visit joinLTO.com for additional resources.
Remember: The goal isn't to create perfect content - it's to consistently produce valuable content that drives results for your business. Start with one framework, learn from the process, and build from there.
The tools are ready. The frameworks are proven. The only question is: which one will you implement first?