Personalizing your Copilot: a simple guide to working smarter

We all have our quirks when it comes to how we work. Maybe you thrive on concise bullet points or enjoy knocking out tasks first thing in the morning. Whatever your style, wouldn’t it be amazing if your tools just got you? With Microsoft’s Copilot (Web), you can make that reality. By adding a few simple preferences to your profile, you can transform Copilot into a personalized assistant that adapts to your needs. Here’s how you can do it and why it’s worth the effort.

Step 1: Nail down your communication style

Let’s face it: communication can be a pain if it doesn’t suit your style. Copilot (Web) can adapt, but only if it knows what you like. Think about how you want to receive updates and summaries. Are you all about quick highlights or do you prefer in-depth explanations?

Here’s a sample prompt to update your profile:

• “I prefer concise, bullet-pointed updates for meeting summaries and tasks. Can you add this to my Copilot Profile?”
• “Add to my Copilot Profile that I find visual aids like charts and graphs helpful.”

Once you set these preferences, Copilot will deliver information in a way that feels effortless.

Step 2: Optimize task management and scheduling

Imagine starting your day with a perfectly prioritized to-do list tailored to your energy levels. Copilot can do that. Just let it know your preferences:

• “I work best in the mornings, so prioritize my critical tasks early in the day. Can you add this to my Copilot Profile?”
• “Add that I like to take a 10-minute break every hour to recharge. Can you add this to my Copilot profile?”

If you travel frequently, Copilot can even help with time zones:

• “I travel a lot and need help scheduling meetings across time zones. Add this to my Copilot Profile.”

These small tweaks make sure you’re always working smarter, not harder.

Step 3: Simplify meetings

Meetings can either be productive or a total waste of time. With Copilot, you can design your ideal meeting setup:

• “I prefer meetings to be scheduled in the afternoons—please reflect this in my Copilot Profile.”
• “Add to my Copilot Profile that I like shorter meetings with clear agendas and action items.”

When these preferences are saved, Copilot will suggest times and formats that align with your style, keeping things efficient and on-point.

Step 4: Enhance collaboration and learning

Whether you’re working with a team or brushing up on new skills, Copilot can be your go-to guide. Set preferences that align with how you learn and collaborate:

• “I prefer learning through hands-on practice—add this to my Copilot Profile so I get more actionable tips and exercises.”
• “I like collaborating through Teams rather than email—update my Copilot Profile accordingly.”

These adjustments ensure smoother teamwork and smarter recommendations.

Step 5: Add the Little Things That Make a Big Difference
Don’t overlook the details that make your workday more enjoyable. For example:

• “Add to my Copilot Profile that I prefer tasks to be managed with a simple to-do list.”
• “Update my Copilot Profile that I have preferences to include morning flights and staying at business-friendly hotels.”

Even preferences like how often you’d like notifications can help Copilot better align with your rhythm:

• “Set my notification preferences to email for high-priority tasks and chat for quick updates. Add this to my Copilot Profile”

Conclusion
Customizing your Copilot profile is like teaching it your language—it’s how you work, what you value, and what helps you stay productive. The more details you share, the more tailored and effective Copilot becomes.

Take a few minutes to add your preferences. Whether it’s concise updates, visual aids, or help juggling travel schedules, Copilot is here to make your workday smoother and more enjoyable.

So, what’s your work style? Let Copilot know and start experiencing the difference today. 

Made this post together with Melissa Ballesteros.