In a world where people crave fast, direct, and authentic communication, WhatsApp stands out as one of the most powerful marketing tools available today. With over 2 billion users globally and extremely high engagement rates, it has become an essential part of daily life for many. But did you know that it can also be a game-changer in selling co-produced online courses?
Whether you’re partnering with an expert to launch a course or managing a portfolio of digital products, WhatsApp can help you close sales, build strong relationships with leads, and create a direct feedback loop that strengthens your marketing strategy.
This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to leverage WhatsApp to sell co-produced courses efficiently and ethically, starting with zero investment.
Why WhatsApp is a Sales Powerhouse for Digital Courses
Let’s start by breaking down why WhatsApp works so well for course sales:
- Extremely high open rates (often above 90%)
- Immediate response potential compared to email or DMs
- A personal and informal tone, ideal for building trust
- Fewer distractions than social media platforms
- Mobile-first access, perfect for quick calls-to-action
When you co-produce a course, especially with a relatively new brand or expert, trust is crucial. WhatsApp allows you to create personal, two-way communication that helps move potential students from curiosity to conversion faster.
Step 1: Build a High-Quality WhatsApp Lead List
Before selling, you need to attract the right audience.
Use Lead Magnets with a WhatsApp CTA
Offer something valuable in exchange for a WhatsApp opt-in:
- A free PDF guide or checklist related to the course topic
- A free live class or mini-course
- An exclusive WhatsApp-only tip or strategy
Your opt-in form should include:
- Name
- Phone number with country code
Use platforms like:
- Typeform
- ConvertKit (with WhatsApp integration)
- Lead Ads on Facebook/Instagram
Add Click-to-WhatsApp Buttons
Instead of traditional contact forms, use buttons like:
“Get the free class on WhatsApp”
Tools such as ManyChat, Chatfuel, and WA.link allow you to generate clickable links that start conversations instantly.
Step 2: Set Up a WhatsApp Business Account
Create a professional image using WhatsApp Business. Features include:
- Business profile with website and description
- Quick replies for FAQs
- Greeting and away messages
- Labels to organize leads (e.g., “Webinar Attended”, “Ready to Buy”)
Having a branded profile gives you legitimacy and streamlines communication, especially when managing multiple leads during a course launch.
Step 3: Create a Lead Nurturing Workflow
The sales process on WhatsApp should feel like a conversation, not a transaction. Here’s how to guide your leads:
1. Initial Contact
Send a warm, non-pushy message:
“Hi [Name], thanks for signing up for our free masterclass on [Topic]! I’m part of the team behind the course, here to help you with any questions.”
2. Value First
Send an insightful tip or relevant information:
“Just dropping a quick insight: Most people fail at [Topic] because they miss this ONE step… Want to know what it is?”
This builds curiosity and positions you as helpful, not salesy.
3. Identify Pain Points
Ask a strategic question:
“Out of curiosity, what’s the biggest challenge you face with [Topic]?”
Leads who respond are warm—engage them personally and naturally.
4. Introduce the Paid Course
Once trust is established:
“By the way, we’ve just launched a full course with [Expert’s Name], covering everything in depth. It’s packed with tools and live support. Want the details?”
Always wait for consent before sending sales links.
Step 4: Create a Conversion-Oriented Broadcast Strategy
Broadcast lists let you message multiple leads at once—without putting them in a group.
Broadcast Message Tips:
- Keep it short and value-driven
- Include personalization where possible
- Add urgency (without faking it)
Example:
“Hey! Just a reminder—our early bird bonus for the [Course Name] ends in 3 hours. If you’re on the fence, now’s the time Here’s the link: [URL]”
Remember: Only users who saved your number will receive broadcast messages, so ask them to do that during the opt-in process.
Step 5: Leverage WhatsApp Status to Warm Leads
Treat WhatsApp Status like Instagram Stories. It’s a subtle but powerful way to build connection and credibility.
What to post:
- Behind-the-scenes footage from the course creation
- Testimonials or success stories
- Countdown to launch
- Daily tips or micro-lessons
Leads who consistently watch your statuses are more likely to buy. You can follow up with these warm contacts with a tailored message.
Step 6: Use Voice Notes and Video for Impact
In a crowded digital space, your tone of voice and facial expressions can make a huge difference. Use:
- Short video clips introducing yourself and the expert
- Voice messages that feel like one-on-one coaching
This human touch is especially effective if you’re selling high-ticket courses or live mentorships.
Example:
“Hey [Name], I recorded this quick voice note for you about how the course can help with exactly what you mentioned. Let me know what you think!”
Step 7: Handle Objections with Confidence
Leads often hesitate to buy because of:
- Price concerns
- Fear of not getting results
- Uncertainty about the content
Instead of pressuring, focus on guiding them:
- Offer payment plans or discounts if available
- Share specific testimonials or outcomes
- Offer a satisfaction guarantee if it exists
Personal responses on WhatsApp feel more sincere than automated emails or chatbot replies.
Step 8: Provide Smooth Purchase and Onboarding Experience
Once a lead says yes:
- Share the purchase link immediately
- Give clear instructions on how to pay
- Send confirmation as soon as the purchase is complete
- Offer instant access (or inform when access will be released)
Then follow up:
“Thanks so much for joining the course! You’ll receive an email with access in a few minutes. If you have any trouble, just reply here.”
Step 9: After-Sales Relationship Building
The sale isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of loyalty and referrals.
Stay in touch through WhatsApp:
- Ask for feedback
- Share bonus tips
- Invite them to affiliate programs
- Send updates about new modules or products
This is especially useful in co-productions where students may later buy upsells, coaching, or advanced products.
Tools to Enhance WhatsApp Strategy
Here are a few tools to streamline your WhatsApp sales process:
- WA.link – Create click-to-chat links with custom messages
- Respond.io – Manage leads with a full CRM over WhatsApp
- Zoko or 360Dialog – Use the WhatsApp Business API for automation
- Google Sheets + Zapier – Automate follow-ups or reminders
Just remember: automation should never replace genuine human connection.
Ethical Guidelines to Follow
Using WhatsApp for marketing requires care:
- Never message without permission
- Always allow users to opt out
- Be mindful of timing (avoid late nights)
- Don’t over-message—less is more
Following these practices ensures your number isn’t reported or banned, and that you maintain a good reputation.
Final Thoughts: Small Effort, Big Returns
WhatsApp isn’t just a messenger—it’s a relationship-building engine. For course coproducers, where trust and connection often make or break a launch, using WhatsApp can boost conversion rates, improve customer satisfaction, and set you apart from the competition.
You don’t need a huge list—what you need is a warm list. With the right strategy, 100 engaged contacts on WhatsApp can bring more results than 1,000 cold email subscribers.
Start small. Talk to people. And most of all—be human.