Carl Norman Consultancy
Carl’s Vision for Online Course Creators
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Carl’s Vision for Online Course Creators

Feb 10, 2025

 

Your Next Course Adventure Starts Today!
Ever wondered what it takes to create a successful online course? Or perhaps you're looking to enhance your existing knowledge. No matter where you begin, we’re here to help you level up your skills.

I’m Carl Norman, and I’m here to help you turn your expertise into a thriving online course business. Whether you’re just starting or refining your approach, you’re in the right place.

Creating a profitable course isn’t just about uploading videos—it’s about understanding your audience, crafting an irresistible offer, and avoiding common pitfalls. Over the next few weeks, I’ll guide you through strategies that set you up for success.

Let’s start by tackling the most common mistakes new course creators make—and how to avoid them.

 

How to Start Your Course the Right Way

Many creators struggle with where to begin, but a few simple steps can help you avoid wasted time and frustration.

Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

  • Validate your course idea – Test demand before investing time and energy. Talk to your audience and check competitor courses.
  • Find your niche – The more specific your topic, the easier it is to attract the right students.
  • Build trust early – Engage with your audience before launching to create excitement and increase enrollments.

Let’s dive into these steps in more detail so you can start strong.

 

The 3-Step Success Formula


Step 1: Validate Your Course Idea

Mistake: Jumping in without confirming demand.

Fix It:

  1. Survey your audience or test ideas with a free workshop.
  2. Research competitor courses and online discussions. 
  3. Use tools like Google Trends and AnswerThePublic to gauge interest.

📊 Fact: A report by Statista (2022) shows that 40% of new businesses fail due to a lack of market need. This applies to online courses too—if there’s no demand, your course won’t sell.

Step 2: Find Your Niche

Mistake: Trying to teach everything to everyone.

Fix It:

  1. Focus on solving one specific problem for a clear audience.
  2. Example: Instead of Photography for Beginners, try How to Take Stunning iPhone Photos for Social Media.
  3. Research who your ideal students are and tailor your course to their needs.

📊 Fact: According to Thinkific, niche courses often have 2x higher engagement rates than broad, general topics. Students prefer specialized courses that solve a specific problem.

Step 3: Build Trust Before Selling

Mistake: Launching a course to a cold audience.

Fix It:

  1. Share free value (tips, case studies, Q&As) before selling.
  2. Build an email list and nurture relationships early.
  3. Engage on social media or in communities where your audience is active.

📊 Fact: Studies show that 95% of people won’t buy from you the first time they hear about your offer. Trust and engagement are key to conversions.

 
By following these steps, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and set your course up for success.

Let’s continue the journey!
In the next blog, we’ll dive into how to choose the perfect course topic—one your audience will love! Start thinking about:

  • What’s your course idea?
  • What’s your biggest challenge so far?

Thank you for being part of this adventure. Want more in-depth guidance? Check out the free PDF below.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

We’re putting together valuable resources that will guide you step-by-step through creating, launching, and scaling a digital course that sells—without the guesswork.

Don’t let another year pass by without creating a scalable income stream.

Your future self will thank you.

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