What is the recommended sequence for completing persona key elements?
Following the correct sequence when developing persona elements is crucial for optimal AI-powered content generation.Shorter Loop's AI follows a specific order—Jobs to be Done → Needs → Pains → Gains → Value Propositions — to ensure each element builds logically on previous ones, creating coherent and actionable personas.
Why Sequence Matters for AI: Shorter Loop's AI is designed to generate contextually relevant content by analyzing previously completed sections. Following the recommended sequence ensures:
More accurate AI suggestions
Better logical connections between elements
Reduced need for manual editing
Comprehensive persona development
The AI-Optimized Sequence: Jobs to be Done → Needs → Pains → Gains → Value Propositions
Why First: Establishes the fundamental tasks your persona needs to accomplish
AI Benefit: Provides context for all subsequent AI suggestions
Manual Input Examples:
"Increase monthly sales revenue by 15% through better lead qualification"
"Streamline client onboarding process to reduce time-to-value"
"Maintain work-life balance while managing growing client demands"
Using AI: Click the blue AI icon (🤖) to generate job suggestions based on your persona's role and industry
Step 2: Needs (Requirements)
Why Second: Defines essential requirements to accomplish their jobs
AI Benefit: AI generates needs directly related to the jobs you've defined
Manual Input Examples:
"Access to real-time client interaction data"
"Automated lead scoring and prioritization tools"
"Mobile-friendly interface for on-the-go access"
Using AI: AI analyzes your Jobs to be Done and suggests relevant needs
Step 3: Pains (Obstacles)
Why Third: Identifies current obstacles preventing job completion
AI Benefit: AI suggests pains that logically connect to established jobs and needs
Manual Input Examples:
"Difficulty tracking multiple client interactions across different platforms"
"Time-consuming manual data entry reducing selling time"
"Lack of insights into lead quality and conversion probability"
Using AI: AI identifies common pain points based on your persona's jobs and needs
Step 4: Gains (Desired Outcomes)
Why Fourth: Captures positive outcomes when jobs are completed successfully
AI Benefit: AI suggests gains that address identified pains and fulfill needs
Manual Input Examples:
"Increased confidence in lead prioritization decisions"
"More time available for high-value client interactions"
"Improved monthly sales performance and commission earnings"
Using AI: AI generates gains that logically connect to pain relief and need fulfillment
Step 5: Value Propositions (Solutions)
Why Last: Creates solutions addressing the complete persona picture
AI Benefit: AI suggests comprehensive value propositions based on all previous context
Manual Input Examples:
"AI-powered lead scoring that automatically prioritizes high-conversion prospects"
"Integrated CRM with real-time mobile access and automated data capture"
"Performance analytics dashboard showing ROI impact on sales activities"
Using AI: AI creates value propositions that address pains, deliver gains, and support job completion
AI Optimization: The AI learns from your input patterns. The more specific and research-based your initial entries, the better the AI becomes at generating relevant content for your industry and use case.