Today I’m thrilled to share with you the 10 irrefutable laws of online course creation. These are the golden principles that separate the pros from the amateurs, the keys to unlocking a successful and impactful course. Ready to embark on this exciting journey? Let’s dive in and turn your dreams into reality!
1. Validate Your Idea
First things first, validate your idea. This isn’t just about throwing spaghetti at the wall to see what sticks; it’s about ensuring there’s a real, viable market for your course.
Think of it as building a solid foundation for a grand structure. Without this, even the most brilliant concept can crumble. Use surveys, research competitors, or start a small pilot program. Your idea needs to resonate deeply with your audience.
2. People Pay for Results, Not Information
People don’t just buy information; they invest in results. When students enroll in your course, they’re looking for a transformation—a step-by-step game plan that takes them from where they are to where they want to be.
When you’re creating your online course, you need to always be thinking about these three things:
- What actions do my customers need to take in order to achieve that desired result?
- What do they need to know in order to take those actions?
- What other tools, resources, or support can I give them to help expedite the process or make it easier to take that action?
Your course should offer clear, actionable outcomes that make it worth every penny. Remember, it’s the promise of change and improvement that compels people to invest in your course.
3. Outline Before Anything Else
Before diving into content creation, craft a robust outline. This is your blueprint, your roadmap. Without this structure, you risk creating a jumbled mess of information. A well-planned outline ensures that every part of your course fits together seamlessly, guiding your students through a coherent and impactful learning journey.
4. The Mindset of Just-in-Time Learning
Adopt the mindset of just-in-time learning. Focus on immediate, actionable tasks rather than overwhelming yourself with trying to figure out how everything works before you even start.
Trust the process. Even if you don’t know exactly which membership site you’re going to use or how the whole Tech thing works you’ll be able to figure it out once you get there
This approach helps to prevent analysis by paralysis and getting too bogged down in the weeds. The most beautifully designed course in the world won’t do you any good if you don’t have content to put in it, so that’s your first priority.
Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered when you’re ready 🙂
5. Set a Deadline and Make a Plan
Set a deadline and stick to it. Procrastination is the enemy of progress. The Pareto Principle tells us that 80% of tasks can be completed in 20% of the time with the right focus. Without a deadline, your course risks being perpetually unfinished. Set a date, make a plan, and keep your eye on the prize.
6. Get Support
No one becomes a legend alone. The only shortcut to success in any area of life is by learning from people that already know what you want to know. Or even more valuable than that is that they know what you don’t know, that you don’t know, that you probably would want to know.
Seek support from mentors, peers, and experts and surround yourself with those who elevate you.
Trying to navigate the course creation process solo can be daunting and counterproductive.
7. Content First, Design Later
Under no circumstances should you ever try to create your content while simultaneously exerting energy trying to make it look pretty.
Create the ugly version first. Your raw content is the sketch; the design is the finishing touch. Craft your content with care, ensuring it’s rich, engaging, and valuable. Only then should you enhance it with stunning visuals.
8. Build Your Tribe
Start building your audience right from the getgo. Provide value, share behind the scenes, and cultivate a community that eagerly awaits your course. A dedicated tribe will ensure your launch is a smashing success, providing a ready-made audience of engaged learners.
9. Form Strategic Partnerships
Form strategic partnerships to expand your reach and add value. Collaborating with others in your industry can amplify your efforts, enhance your offerings, and make the journey more enjoyable. Partnerships can open doors to new opportunities and help you reach a broader audience.
10. Implement a Complete Strategy
A comprehensive strategy is what separates the successful from the struggling. Every element of your course should work together to create a cohesive, transformative experience. From marketing to content delivery, ensure that every aspect is designed to provide a seamless and impactful journey for your students. Your course is not just a product; it’s part of a larger vision for your business.
There you have it—the 10 irrefutable laws of online course creation, your blueprint for success. Implement these principles and watch as your vision turns into a thriving reality.
Let’s make magic happen!
