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. Experiment. Talk to people. And most of all—be human.