5 Hidden ChatGPT Secrets That Will Supercharge Your Productivity In 2025
By Dr. Hernani Costa — August 02, 2025
Unlock the Most Powerful, Little-Known ChatGPT Features to Automate Work, Master Research, and Boost Productivity With AI in 2025
Good morning,
You're probably using ChatGPT for quick answers or to brainstorm ideas. But are you tapping into the newest, little-known features that the pros are using to crush their daily to-dos, automate workflows, and get a real competitive edge?
Most ChatGPT users stick to simple Q&A. This guide unveils the next-level tools and best practices that are quietly transforming how top AI users operate—and how you can, too.
Table of Contents
- 1. ChatGPT Agent Mode: Your AI That Takes Real Action
- 2. Deep Research: Reliable Reports, Real Citations
- 3. Connectors: Unlock Your Data, Cloud, or CRM
- 4. Custom GPTs: Automate Tedious Repetitive Tasks
- 5. Desktop App & ChatGPT Record: AI at Your Fingertips, Everywhere
- FAQ: Common Pitfalls & Power Prompts
- Key Takeaways
- Ready to Level Up? Try These Now
1. ChatGPT Agent Mode: Your AI That Takes Real Action
Forget just chatting—now your AI can actually do things for you.
ChatGPT Agent Mode isn't just about answers. It runs multi-step, real-world tasks, interacting with browser windows and tools, much like an intern that never sleeps. This AI automation consulting approach transforms how teams handle workflow automation design and operational AI implementation.
Example Workflow:
- Delegate booking a dinner reservation or comparing the best products online.
- Ask:
Find and book a restaurant in Amsterdam, The Netherlands on Aug 3, 2025, for my friend and me. Any cuisine, but unique! - Agent Mode orchestrates web searches, checks availability, and makes the booking. You just click to confirm.
Caution:
- Never provide credit card or sensitive information directly in the prompt—keep security a top priority.
- Use this for research, bookings, or code generation—not sensitive purchases.
Pro Tip:
Look for the Agent Mode in your "Tools" panel.
2. Deep Research: Reliable Reports, Real Citations
Move from "AI says" to "proof-backed research you can trust."
Deep Research mode turns ChatGPT into your 24/7 analyst, combing through hundreds of sources, surfacing answers and citations from real sites. This capability supports AI readiness assessment for businesses seeking data-driven decision-making.
Perfect for:
- Product comparisons ("Best SUVs under €30k for a family")
- Industry deep dives
- Decision-ready research
Prompt Example: Find me the safest, most fuel-efficient SUV under €30k for a family of four, with lots of trunk space for 50 boxes of shoes.
- ChatGPT asks follow-ups, then generates a detailed, cited report and even comparison tables.
3. Connectors: Unlock Your Data, Cloud, or CRM
Bring ChatGPT into the heart of your digital workflow.
With connectors, you can plug ChatGPT into Google Drive, Gmail, HubSpot, Outlook, Teams, Canva, and more. This AI tool integration capability enables business process optimization and streamlined AI automation consulting for EU SMEs and enterprises.
Use Case:
- Instantly analyze client lists from HubSpot:
List my best customers by loyalty and send each a gift suggestion. (Anonymize names.) - Explore hidden trends in your cloud drives:
What's a file in my Google Drive that might surprise me?
How-To:
- Go to "Tools" → "Connectors" → Link supported apps.
- For business users, custom connectors let you integrate proprietary data (ex: QuickBooks, Salesforce).
Note:
Some connectors require a pro or team plan.
4. Custom GPTs: Automate Tedious Repetitive Tasks
Why do a repetitive task manually? Let your personal AI do it—on autopilot.
Create your own GPT tailored to your data and workflow through a simple step-by-step interface. Custom GPTs enable workflow automation design and operational AI implementation without requiring extensive technical expertise.
Step-by-step:
- Click "GPTs" in the sidebar → "Create".
- Give your GPT a clear role (e.g., "Google Analytics Analyst").
- Provide context and a sample data format.
- Write clear task steps (e.g., "Analyze sales trends, export a CSV").
- Specify output/format.
Skill level:
No code needed for basic setups; advanced users can build custom connectors for deep integration.
Power tip:
Iterate and test—start simple, refine your instructions, and verify the output against your expectations before scaling up usage. For more tips on how to prompt like a pro, check this First AI Movers Insight from the Knowledge Hub.
5. Desktop App & ChatGPT Record: AI at Your Fingertips, Everywhere
AI that actually "lives" inside your workflow—in every app.
With the free desktop app, spin up ChatGPT anywhere:
- Instantly summarize a Notion doc, debug code from a terminal window, or answer questions about any open file or message.
- ChatGPT Record: Dictate or upload a voice recording up to 2 hours, and get a searchable, summarized transcript.
Bonus:
- The desktop app and Record feature are currently available for Pro/Tier users and teams.
FAQ: Common Pitfalls & Power Prompts
Q: Can Agent Mode access my sensitive accounts?
No—never share passwords or payment info in prompts. Use for public or non-sensitive actions only.
Q: Where do I find these features?
- Tools > Agent Mode for tasks
- Tools > Deep Research for research reports
- Tools > Connectors for app integrations
- Sidebar > GPTs for custom workflows
Q: Can I export the results to Notion, Google Sheets, or others?
Yes—with connectors or by downloading as CSV/Markdown. Some features are pro-only.
Key Takeaways
- ChatGPT Agent automates tasks that would take you hours.
- Deep Research turns scattered information into instant analyst-grade reports.
- Connectors sync your knowledge base, CRM, and cloud data into AI workflows.
- Custom GPTs let you scale yourself with personalized automations.
- ChatGPT Desktop App/Record brings AI "right where you work," anytime.
Ready to Level Up? Try These Now
- Visit chatgpt.com and enable Agent and Deep Research.
- Connect your Google Drive, HubSpot, Notion, or CRM and try real business queries!
- Build and share your first Custom GPT for your unique workflow.
- Download the desktop app for instant, in-window AI support.
- Share your favorite new-to-you trick or question in the comments, or reply with how ChatGPT has boosted your productivity.
Want more advanced AI guides like this? Subscribe to First AI Movers for how-tos, feature breakdowns, and hands-on prompt walkthroughs, straight from the global edge of applied AI.
Let's build the future, one smarter workflow at a time.
— by Dr. Hernani Costa | First AI Movers | Join the conversation on LinkedIn
About the Author
Hi, I'm Dr. Hernani Costa, founder of First AI Movers. With a PhD and over 25 years of hands-on experience in technology, AI consulting, and Venture Building. I help leaders and founders create real business value through practical and ethical AI solutions. If you want to know more about what's possible, visit Core Ventures. Don't forget to follow us on LinkedIn. To partner with us: info@firstaimovers.com.
Written by Dr Hernani Costa and originally published at First AI Movers. Subscribe to the First AI Movers Newsletter for daily, no‑fluff AI business insights, practical and compliant AI playbooks for EU SME leaders. First AI Movers is part of Core Ventures.
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