01What a ChatGPT Custom GPT Is and How It Works

A chatgpt custom gpt is a version of ChatGPT that you create for one specific job. Instead of asking ChatGPT to do anything, you give it a set of instructions so it always acts like an expert in one area. Julian Goldie shows how to build one that writes client proposals.

You start by writing a system prompt. This prompt tells the custom GPT what to do, how to format its answer, and what tone to use. Once you save the prompt, ChatGPT follows it every time someone uses your custom GPT.

The result is instant, accurate work that matches your exact needs.

02Main Features of a Custom GPT

Custom GPTs have several important features that make them powerful automation tools. They remember your instructions every time you use them, so you never have to repeat yourself.

  • System prompt: A permanent instruction that tells the GPT what role to play and how to respond.
  • Conversation starters: Buttons users can click to begin, like "Start a client proposal."
  • Knowledge files: You can upload documents, PDFs, or other files so the GPT can pull information from them.
  • Shareable link: Once created, you get a URL you can send to anyone. They can use the GPT without logging into your account.
  • No coding required: You build everything through a simple chat interface inside ChatGPT.

03How to Set Up Your ChatGPT Custom GPT Step by Step

Setting up a custom GPT is a simple process. Julian shows you exactly what to do. Follow these steps to create your own proposal-writing automation.

  1. Go to ChatGPT and click Explore GPTs on the left menu. Then click Create.
  2. Give your GPT a name. For example, Client Proposals.
  3. Use another AI tool like Claude to draft a system prompt. Ask it to "create a prompt for a client proposal machine." Copy the prompt it gives you.
  4. Paste that system prompt into the instruction box on the right side of the create screen. This tells your GPT exactly what to do.
  5. Add a conversation starter so users know how to interact. Type something like "Start a client proposal here."
  6. Optionally, upload knowledge files if you want the GPT to have extra context. Then click Save.
  7. Copy the shareable link that appears. You can now send that link to anyone who needs to use the automation.

04How to Use the Custom GPT for Client Proposals

Once your custom GPT is built, using it is straightforward. Julian tests his new GPT live in the episode. He asks it to create a proposal for a real client project.

He types: "Let's do a client proposal, please." The GPT responds by asking for the brief. Julian provides the project details: Goldie Agency SEO project, one month, rank number one for AI community terms, and a budget. The GPT instantly generates a full proposal.

It includes a summary, scope of work, timeline in a table, and pricing. The whole process takes only seconds.

You can use your custom GPT the same way. Just paste in a client brief, and the GPT will follow the instructions you gave it in the system prompt to produce a professional document every time.

05Results and Testing of the Custom GPT

Julian tests the custom GPT live and the results are immediate. The GPT takes the simple client brief he typed and turns it into a structured proposal with multiple sections.

It breaks down the summary of work, describes the scope in clear bullet points, shows a timeline in a table format, and lists the pricing. The document looks ready to send to a client. Julian notes that the automation works exactly as designed and the output is professional.

He also shows that you can test your GPT as soon as you build it. Any mistakes in the instructions are easy to fix. Just go back to the create screen, edit the system prompt, and save again.

The GPT updates right away.

06Tips, Limits and Mistakes to Avoid

Building a custom GPT is easy, but there are a few things to watch out for. Julian shares important tips based on his experience.

  • Use Claude first: Let another AI write your system prompt. AI knows how to talk to AI, so the prompt will be more effective than something you write from scratch.
  • Don't build in Claude alone: Claude's custom GPTs are not shareable unless you have a team account with separate emails. ChatGPT custom GPTs give you a shareable link.
  • Add context: Uploading knowledge files makes your GPT smarter. If your proposals need company data or past examples, include those files.
  • Test before sharing: Always run a test after you save. Make sure the output matches what you want. Edit the prompt if needed.
  • Keep prompts focused: If your GPT tries to do too many things, it may produce weaker results. Stick to one main job per custom GPT.

07Who Should Use a ChatGPT Custom GPT and Why It Matters

Anyone who does repetitive tasks like writing proposals, drafting emails, or creating reports can benefit from a custom GPT. Julian built this example for a client proposal, but you can use the same process for almost any task.

Small business owners, freelancers, and agencies save hours each week by letting the GPT handle the first draft. The GPT also ensures every proposal follows the same structure and quality. No more starting from scratch every time.

Julian mentions that his community members get free custom automations like this one. The process is simple enough that anyone can learn it and apply it to their own work. Once you see how fast it works, you will find even more tasks to automate.