I always hear one question from both new product creators and seasoned business owners. These professionals always ask: “How do I find a good idea?”
Of course they actually mean “How do I find an idea that will sell?” No one wants to spend a lot of time planning, developing and launching a course only to hear crickets on the launch date. You want to know that you’ll at least be semi-successful.
My advice to you is to not overthink it. What you have to do is simple: give your audience what they’re asking for.
1. Check out the competition
What are they creating? If your audience is similar to theirs, then what sells for them will most likely sell for you. Now before you use the overused excuse that it’s already been done, keep in mind that no two coaches are alike. Even if the courses are similar, your voice, your experience, your teaching style, and your unique personality will shine through. No one else is you and for many customers, YOU are the only who resonates with them.
2. Pay attention to your ideal client.
What questions does he/she ask in private groups, your help desk and elsewhere? What posts are being read on your blog (check your Google Analytics stats)? These are valuable sources that can provide you intel about exactly what he or she needs from you.
3. Ask.
If you’re still unsure of what your dream client is looking for, ask them! Create a survey and ask them to tell you their struggles, what keeps them from reaching success and even what they’ve tried before to solve their issues.
4. Check the bestsellers list.
Which books in your niche rank the highest in sales? These are the ones that answer your client’s questions. Flip through the Table of Contents and read online reviews to really understand what your audience likes.
5. Read the FAQs.
Check the FAQ section on competitor’s blogs, forums, and Facebook groups. Also check blogs for “Start Here”, and “Quickstart pages.” Common questions and concerns are usually answered in those sections.
6. Review available resources.
Which common resources are your colleagues and competitors recommending? You could get great inspiration for eCourses by listening to the questions that people ask about the use of Software and other tools.
7. Check your email.
If you’ve been in business for more than a couple of months, you most likely receive questions from friends, clients, and even strangers on a daily basis (I know I do). Look for the common themes and trends on the questions they’re asking.
8. Revisit your keyword search.
Review the search terms that are the most popular in your niche and use them for your own research.
9. Check your search terms.
With Google Webmaster Tools, you can check which terms are sending visitors to your site. Because people often search questions like “how to start a business” or “how to market on Instagram”, this can be a rich source of ideas.
Ideas can be found pretty much anywhere, you just need to pay attention. You should especially pay attention to what your potential buyers are doing and asking. Don’t let fear hold you back and develop a course that will sell! I’ve created a workbook to help you with your Brainstorming. Click the button below to grab a copy!
