Q&A: “Should I create a free course before launching a paid one?”
Manage episode 488692125 series 2526728
What It’s About
Is it best to go straight to a paid model?
Notes from Chris
Episode 3087
Giving something away for free can be a great way to build trust and attract customers—but when does it actually help, and when is it just a waste of time? That’s the question Jake from Minneapolis is wrestling with. He’s developing a productivity course for freelancers and is wondering whether launching a free mini-course will help grow his audience—or if he’s just delaying revenue.Let’s break down when a free course works as a sales tool, when it backfires, and what to consider before offering one.
“Hey Chris, this is Jake from Minneapolis. I’m in the process of creating an online course about productivity for freelancers, and I’ve been debating whether to launch a free mini-course first to attract an audience. I see a lot of people doing this, but I’m not sure if it actually leads to more sales or just attracts people who never intend to buy anything. Would offering a free course help me build trust and generate more customers, or am I just giving away value without getting anything in return?”
Listen to today’s episode to learn more…
SEE ALSO:
- Catholic Designer Creates Stylish Apparel Line: What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world but not sell any t-shirts? This designer cast his bread upon the waters and ended up with a profitable fashion line.
- Seattle Couple Creates New “Income LiveStream”: When a married couple runs into logistical problems at their wedding, it leads to an innovative service that other engaged couples need during the pandemic.
- Role-Playing Pastor Rolls The Dice On $2800/Month Hustle: Listener success story! This Presbyterian minister turns to his lifelong interest in role-playing games to set up a sustainable second income source.
Inspiration is good; inspiration combined with action is better. Now get back to work!
Yours in the revolution,
Resources
GET $625 IN FREE TRAVEL
Earn 50,000 travel rewards points (enough for 2 round-trip plane tickets or $625 in travel credit). You'll also earn 2x points on all travel and dining spend, with zero foreign transaction fees.
I use this card every day all over the world! ✈️ Learn More
CREATE YOUR ONLINE STORE
Create your online store with Shopify using an exclusive discount for Side Hustle School listeners. For a limited time, get a free 21-day trial and a 10% discount for a whole year.
Many Side Hustle School listeners are building sites using Shopify's easy-to-learn platform. Try it free today! Learn More
Sponsors & Gratitude
Learn More With Skillshare!
Supporting the sponsors keeps the show free. Today’s episode of Side Hustle School is brought to you by Skillshare. 📷
Skillshare is giving Side Hustle School listeners 2 months of unlimited access—for $0.99! Join the 2 million students learning everything from street photography to SEO on Skillshare today!
Get Started Here!
Like the Show? Leave a Rating!
Side Hustle School is for you! If you’re enjoying it, please take a quick moment to leave a rating or write a quick review. It's really easy and it makes a difference! ✅
It also makes a huge difference when you tell your friends about the show. Remember, it's 100% free and listener-supported.
Keep in Touch

There’s a new story every single day on Side Hustle School. Episodes are produced to be short and to the point—I know you’re busy. Be sure you subscribe to get instant notification of the day’s broadcast!
To infinity and beyond,
27 episodes