The rise of the internet has made it easier than ever to make money online, and one of the best ways to do this is by selling online courses. Whether you’re a teacher, a skilled professional, or just someone with valuable knowledge, creating and selling an online course can help you reach a wider audience and earn a steady income.

Don’t underestimate the power of selling your knowledge—what seems ordinary to you could be life-changing to someone who needs it. There’s a world of people willing to pay to learn what you already know, and with the right approach, you can turn your expertise into a profitable venture that keeps earning for years to come.

But where do you start? How do you create online courses that sell? And how can you ensure success in Nigeria’s growing digital economy? In this article, we will share actionable tips for selling your online courses successfully in 2024.

Introduction to online course creation

Creating an online course is a modern way to share knowledge and earn money. They are lessons delivered digitally through various formats like videos, downloadable resources, live sessions, or even quizzes and assignments. This flexibility makes them a powerful tool for anyone looking to teach others while building a steady income stream.

The best part? You don’t need to be a tech wizard to create and sell your course. With platforms like Selar, the process is streamlined and beginner-friendly. All you need is your knowledge, passion, and willingness to share what you know with others. Whether it’s teaching a skill, solving a common problem, or breaking down a topic people often struggle with, there’s always an audience waiting to learn from you.

Why create an online course?

Here are some compelling reasons  why you should start creating online courses today: 

1. Online course creation earns you passive income

Imagine earning money even while you sleep. That’s the power of online courses. Once your course is created, it becomes a digital asset you can sell over and over again without additional work.

2. Online course creation allows you to reach a global audience

Gone are the days when your knowledge was limited to a classroom or local community. With online courses, you can share your expertise with learners across Nigeria and even globally, expanding your impact and earning potential.

3. Online course creation has low startup costs

You don’t need a fancy setup or a big budget to get started. A smartphone, an internet connection, and your expertise are enough to create an impactful course. Plus, platforms like Selar remove the need for expensive software or complex setups.

4. Online course creation gives you flexibility

Creating online courses allows you to work on your own terms. You can design and deliver your course at your own pace, decide your working hours, and sell your course 24/7. It’s a perfect opportunity for people with busy schedules or those looking to earn alongside their 9-to-5 job.

Getting started is easier than you think. With Selar, all it takes is a few clicks to upload your course and begin selling. No tech skills, no stress—just you sharing your knowledge with the world.

10 tips for successful online course sales in Nigeria 

Selling online courses in Nigeria is an exciting opportunity, but to make money, you need the right strategies. Here are 10 actionable tips to help you sell more courses and grow your online income:

1. Pick a niche that solves a problem

If you want to create online courses that sell, the first and most important step is picking the right niche. A niche is simply a specific area or topic you focus on, and choosing one that solves a problem ensures that people will see value in what you’re offering. People are more likely to pay for something that addresses their needs or helps them achieve a goal.

So, start by asking yourself these questions:

• What do people often ask for help with? Think about the skills or knowledge people come to you for advice on. Maybe you’re the go-to person for Excel tips, baking recipes, or navigating complex career transitions.
• What skills or knowledge do I have that others need? Everyone has something they’re good at. You might not think much of it, but your ability to teach it could be transformative for someone else.

For example, in Nigeria, popular niches include digital marketing, tech skills, personal finance and creative skills. When you choose a specific niche, you’re not trying to teach everyone everything—you’re focusing on a specific group of people with a common need. This makes it easier to attract the right audience, stand out from competitors, and build trust faster among our audience. 

2. Create high-quality content

The quality of your course can make or break its success. People want value for their money, so it’s essential to put in the effort to create content that is both engaging and professional. Start with clear, high-definition videos and well-organized slides that are easy to follow. Your visuals don’t need to be overly flashy but they should be clean, consistent, and relevant to your topic. Ensure your sound quality is excellent—nothing frustrates learners more than poor audio that makes it hard to follow lessons.

Break your course into manageable modules or lessons. This structure makes it easier for learners to stay on track and absorb the information step by step. Each module should focus on a specific sub-topic, building toward the overall course goal. Incorporate different learning styles by mixing formats like video lectures, text guides, and practical demonstrations. Adding downloadable resources like worksheets, templates, or cheat sheets can also enhance the learner’s experience and provide additional value.

Interactive elements like quizzes, assignments, or discussion prompts are also great for keeping your learners engaged. They allow students to apply what they’ve learned and measure their progress. High-quality courses don’t just sell better—they earn glowing reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations, which can drive more sales over time. Investing in quality content shows that you care about your audience’s learning experience, and that care will reflect on the success of your course.

3. Use a reliable platform like Selar

Choosing the right platform to host and sell your online course is just as important as creating the course itself. A good platform ensures your learners have a smooth experience while giving you the tools to manage your sales efficiently. Selar is the best platform for Nigerians looking to monetize their knowledge without the stress of dealing with complicated technical setups.

With Selar, you get access to features designed to make your course-selling journey seamless. The platform offers secure payment options catering to both local and international buyers, so you can reach a global audience. Flexible pricing options also allow you to set your course fees in a way that fits your market. Whether you want to sell your course as a one-time purchase or offer instalment payments, Selar gives you the freedom to choose.

Another key advantage of Selar is its ease of use. You don’t need to be a tech expert to get started—just upload your course materials, set your price, and start selling. The platform takes care of all the technical details, like hosting your content and managing transactions, while also offering excellent customer support to help with any challenges. This way, you can focus on what you do best: teaching and sharing your knowledge.

4. Price your course right

The price of your course plays a huge role in how well it sells. If your course is too expensive, you might scare potential buyers away. If it’s too cheap, people may question its value. Striking the right balance is key. Start by researching similar courses in your niche—what are they charging, and what value are they offering? This will give you a clear idea of where your course fits in the market and help you price it competitively.

Consider your target audience’s budget. For example, in Nigeria, an entry-level course on a popular topic might sell better at a price range of ₦10,000 to ₦30,000, depending on its length, depth, and value. If your course offers advanced skills or certifications, you can justify charging more. However, always ensure that the price reflects the quality and uniqueness of your content. Don’t undersell yourself, but also keep your audience’s affordability in mind.

To make your course more accessible and attract more students, consider offering flexible payment options. Discounts for early birds or seasonal sales can create urgency and drive more sign-ups. You could also introduce payment plans for higher-priced courses, allowing learners to pay in instalments. These strategies not only make your course more appealing but also help you reach a wider audience without compromising on value.

We have a book on managing finances where we talk deeply about pricing strategies for Nigerian creators.

5. Leverage social media for promotion

Social media is an invaluable tool for promoting your online course, which gives you the chance to reach a large audience and engage with potential students directly. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn are all powerful channels for building awareness, driving traffic to your course, and connecting with people who could benefit from your expertise. To maximize your reach, use a variety of content to highlight different aspects of your course and keep your followers engaged.

You can also start by sharing teasers from your course—this could be a sneak peek into your course content or a short clip from one of your lessons. Teasers create curiosity and give your followers a taste of what they can expect, encouraging them to enrol. Make sure to emphasize the value your course offers and how it can solve problems for your audience. Alongside teasers, share success stories from past students who have benefited from your course. Real-life testimonials and success stories build trust and show potential students that your course delivers results.

Don’t be afraid to show the behind-the-scenes of your course creation process. People love seeing the effort and dedication that goes into creating valuable content. It humanizes you as a creator and helps build a deeper connection with your audience. Finally, engage your followers by hosting Q&A sessions or sharing valuable tips related to your course topic. This gives you the opportunity to answer questions, offer free advice, and show your expertise, further positioning your course as a must-have resource. By staying consistent and engaging on social media, you’ll create a loyal following that’s eager to purchase your course.

6. Build an email list

Building an email list is one of the most effective ways to promote and sell your online course. Unlike social media, where your content can get lost in a feed, email gives you direct access to people who have already shown interest in your offerings. To really win here, you need to start building your email list early, even before your course is ready for launch. One great way to do this is by offering freebies like eBooks, templates, or mini-courses in exchange for their email addresses. This not only attracts potential students but also establishes trust and value with your audience.

Once you have your email list, use it to announce your course launch and build anticipation. You can send a series of emails leading up to the launch, sharing teasers and offering early-bird discounts to those who have subscribed. After your course is live, keep the momentum going by sending updates about new features, content, or bonuses that enhance the value of your course. People appreciate staying informed, and regular updates keep them engaged.

Another great use of email marketing is to send reminders about special promotions, such as discounts or limited-time offers. A well-timed email can encourage hesitant buyers to take action, especially if you’re offering something at a reduced price for a short period. Luckily, Selar helps with all of this. By nurturing your email list and keeping your audience informed, you’re creating a steady stream of potential buyers who are eager to purchase when the time comes.

7. Focus on SEO and keywords

If you want your course to be easily discovered by potential students online, focusing on SEO is super important. When people search for topics related to your course, you want your content to appear on the first page of search engine results. One of the best ways to achieve this is by including keywords like “how to create online courses that sell” in key areas such as your course description, website, and social media posts. This helps search engines understand what your course is about and connect it with people searching for similar topics.

Don’t just stop at creating a great course page—create additional content like blogs or articles related to your course. These pieces can address questions your potential students might have, such as common challenges or tips for success in your course’s field. By consistently writing and posting content that’s relevant to your audience, you can attract more visitors to your site and generate leads for your course. The more content you produce around your niche, the higher the chances of ranking well for related search terms.

Remember, SEO is a long-term strategy, so be patient and consistent. As you continue to optimize your content with the right keywords and create valuable resources for your audience, you’ll improve your visibility on search engines and drive organic traffic to your course. This means more potential students discovering and signing up for your course, helping you grow your online course sales.

8. Gather testimonials and reviews

Social proof is a game-changer when it comes to selling online courses. Potential students often rely on the experiences of others to decide whether to enrol. After your students complete your course, encourage them to leave reviews or testimonials about their experience. You can do this by sending a polite email request or offering a small bonus, like a free resource or additional material, as a thank-you for their feedback.

Once you gather these testimonials, share them everywhere—your course page, social media, and even in email campaigns. When people see others praising your course, they’ll feel more confident about investing in it. Video testimonials, in particular, can be especially persuasive because they add a personal and authentic touch.

Additionally, use student success stories to highlight the impact of your course. For example, if a student landed a job, increased their income, or achieved a personal goal because of your course, share that story. These real-life examples not only validate your course’s value but also inspire others to take action and sign up.

9. Collaborate with influencers or affiliates

Partnering with influencers or affiliates is a smart way to amplify your course’s reach and boost sales. Influencers have loyal, engaged audiences who trust their recommendations, making them ideal partners for promoting your course. Look for influencers in your niche who align with your course topic. For example, if your course is about graphic design, collaborating with a content creator who teaches design tips or reviews creative tools can give you direct access to an audience already interested in your subject.

Offer influencers an incentive to promote your course, such as a commission for every sale they generate. This makes it a win-win partnership—they earn money, and you gain more students. To ensure successful collaboration, provide them with the resources they need, like discount codes, promotional graphics, or a demo of your course, so they can authentically talk about its value. Additionally, make sure to track sales and performance using tools that simplify affiliate management.

If you’re not sure where to start, Selar’s affiliate network can help. It allows you to set up and manage affiliate partnerships easily, with options for flexible commissions and detailed tracking. By partnering with influencers or affiliates, you can tap into new audiences, increase your visibility, and boost your course sales without doing all the heavy lifting yourself.

10. Offer bonuses or limited-time discounts

Everybody loves a deal, and adding bonuses or running limited-time discounts can significantly boost your course sales. Bonuses make your course more appealing by providing additional value. These could include extra lessons, downloadable templates, workbooks, or even access to an exclusive group where students can interact and share ideas. Bonuses like these help you stand out from competitors and give potential buyers more reasons to choose your course.

Creating urgency with limited-time discounts is another effective strategy. For example, you can offer an early-bird discount for students who sign up before the official launch date or create a flash sale that lasts for 24–48 hours. These promotions encourage people to act quickly, reducing the chance of procrastination.

To make your offers even more enticing, combine bonuses with discounts. For instance, you can say, “Enroll this week and get 20% off plus a free template bundle!” This not only attracts more students but also motivates them to share your course with their friends or colleagues, driving even more sales. 

Creating and selling an online course in Nigeria is one of the best ways to make money online in 2024. With Selar, the process is seamless, and you don’t need to worry about tech challenges. You can start earning today.