If you’ve ever thought about creating an online course, you’ve likely had a moment of doubt.

• “The market is too saturated.”
• “I’ve missed the moment.”
• “So-and-so (insert name of famous YouTuber) has already cornered the market!”

These are valid concerns, but they often come from a misunderstanding about what makes a course successful.

In this article, we’ll correct some common misconceptions and explore six proven strategies to make your course stand out in even the most crowded markets.

Correcting the Mindset

So, what are the most common mental roadblocks that keep aspiring course creators stuck?

1. People Aren’t Paying for Information; They’re Paying for Transformation

The internet is filled with free information, yet people still pay for online courses. Why? Because they don’t just want knowledge—they want results. They’re looking for a transformation, and if you can guide them to achieve that, they’ll happily pay for your course.

Your value lies not in what you know but in how you can help someone get from point A to point B faster and more effectively. Do you have evidence to back up your claims? Testimonials, case studies, or your own success story can make all the difference.

2. The Big Names Don’t Offer Personal Access

Many famous course creators start by offering hands-on support but shift to pre-recorded courses and minimal interaction as they scale. This creates a gap in the market. People still crave personal guidance, and if you can provide direct support—through coaching, feedback, or live sessions—you’ll stand out from the big players.

3. Your Perspective Is Your Superpower

Even if your topic isn’t unique, your take on it is. Your life experiences, personality, and unique insights make your course different from anyone else’s. The right people will resonate with your voice and approach in a way that they won’t with others. Some won’t like you, and that’s okay. Others will LOVE you!

Six Ways to Stand Out in a Crowded Market

Once you’ve got the right mindset, it’s time to differentiate your course using these six strategies.

1. Speed: Deliver Results Quickly

People value their time as much as their money. If you can help them achieve their desired outcome faster, they’ll choose your course over a competitor’s. Frame your course around a clear, time-bound promise. For example:

• “Launch your first course in just six weeks.”
• “Transform your public speaking skills in 30 days.”

Streamline your content and focus on actionable steps that create rapid wins for your students.

2. Niche Down: Solve a Specific Problem for a Specific Audience

The broader your course topic, the harder it is to stand out. Instead, go deep into a specific niche. For example:

• Instead of “Learn how to cook,” try “Healthy meal prep for busy single moms.”

By niching down, you become the go-to expert for a specific group of people. They’ll see your course as tailored to their needs rather than just another generic offering.

And don’t worry about market size! There are an estimated 1.2 billion English-speaking people online. Finding your niche audience won’t be a problem.

3. Remove Pain: Solve Problems Without the Usual Frustrations

Highlight how your course eliminates common challenges or frustrations. Use phrases like “without” or “no more” to emphasize ease and effectiveness. For example:

• “Build a social media strategy without spending hours creating content.”
• “Learn to budget without giving up the things you love.”

4. Offer Unique Expertise or Perspective

Your unique background and insights are your secret weapons. Whether you’ve developed a proprietary framework, achieved success in a specific field, or simply have a relatable story, leverage it to set yourself apart. For example:

• “Get my proven ‘Three Trigger Deal Finder’ system for securing real estate deals.”
• “Learn the 5 presentation techniques I used to land hundreds of six-figure clients.”

5. Provide Tangible Outcomes

People love measurable results. Be specific about what your students will achieve. For example:

• “Grow your email list by 1,000 subscribers in 90 days.”

When potential students can clearly visualize the results, they’re more likely to trust your course and take the leap.

6. Create an All-in-One Solution

Many online courses only scratch the surface of a topic, leaving students to seek additional resources. Stand out by offering a comprehensive, all-in-one solution. For example:

• “Everything you need to master copywriting in one place—templates, checklists, and live coaching included.”
• “A complete guide to mastering herbs for horses, from everyday to emergency use!”

Final Thoughts: Standing Out Is Always Possible

Yes, the online course market is crowded, but that doesn’t mean there’s no room for you. By shifting your mindset and implementing these six strategies, you can create a course that stands out, attracts the right audience, and delivers incredible value.

Remember, people aren’t just buying your course—they’re buying your unique approach, your support, and the transformation you offer. And that’s something no celebrity or big-name creator can replicate.

So, take a deep breath, focus on what makes you different, and start building the course that only you can create. Your audience is waiting.

How I Can Help

If you’re ready to learn more about creating a successful online course, coaching or mentoring program, here are some ways we can work together to bring your vision to life:

1. Subscribe to The Raw News

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2. Join My FREE Facebook Group

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3. Sign Up for my Impact & Income Accelerator Program

If you’re ready to level up, my Impact & Income Accelerator Workshop show you how I built a profitable, scalable online course business in my spare time. Sign up here.