How NOT to sell a course

the fastest way to be deleted

Want to see what a badly written email looks like?

I honestly don’t know if this was written by the course creator, a brand new copywriter, or a teenager who thinks they can sell.

I do know it breaks a lot of rules for persuasive email copy. Okay, it breaks them all. And not in a good way. I’ve written about best practices we can all benefit from knowing - and they don’t know a single one of them.

And sadly, someone thought it was a good idea to hit Send.

Subject: Learn to Excel with Our Amazing Course!

Dear Esteemed Potential Customer,

I hope this email finds you in the best of your health and wealth. We are reaching out to you to present an exciting opportunity that will revolutionize your life forever. Our cutting-edge online course is designed to offer you an unparalleled learning experience that will leave you spellbound and craving for more.

With our course, you will embark on a journey of discovery unlike any other. Our team of highly qualified experts has meticulously crafted each module to ensure maximum impact and effectiveness. You will be guided through a series of mind-boggling concepts that will expand your horizons and challenge your preconceived notions.

But wait, there's more! By enrolling in our course, you will gain access to a treasure trove of resources that will empower you to reach new heights of success. From interactive quizzes to engaging webinars, we have everything you need to unlock your full potential and become the best version of yourself.

So what are you waiting for? Don't let this golden opportunity slip through your fingers. Sign up for our course today and take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow. Trust us, you won't regret it!

Best regards,

THEIR SIGNATURE

What the…what?!

Yeah, my heading was spinning a bit. I went to delete it then thought “oh wait! here’s a great example I can share in my newsletter!”

Lucky you 😃

Do you know the title of the course? The problem this course solves? The results I can expect?

Me, neither.

And what’s with that line “but wait, there’s more!” Do you think they saw too many Ron Popeil commercials?

This email is so badly written…I’m embarrassed for the sender. No doubt they’ve burned through a list. And I bet the sender is wondering why it didn’t work…why it didn’t bring at least 1 sale.

I hear you - you think they could use the tips I offer in my newsletter. I agree with you. Which is why I sent them this reply:

Dear Course Creator Sender (yes I used their name),

I bet you haven’t sold a single course, have you?

I know why.

It’s because your email doesn’t work.

Persuasive emails are simple, clear, and provide enough information for the reader to want to know more. Your email left me confused and uninterested.

If you want to know how to write emails that get sales, I recommend you subscribe to this newsletter…Email Copywriting Secrets(linked).

You will see actionable tips you can use to rewrite the email you sent me and, if done right, I bet I might be interested in your course.

May your future days be filled with sales!

Charlene

Will they subscribe to this newsletter? They might. If they do you know they’ll see why their email failed.

What do you think about all this?

I’d love to hear it. Leave a comment.

Talk soon -

Charlene Burke

PS Have you been sending emails to your list? Have you changed the emails you’ve been sending to your prospects? Yes? GREAT! No? Uh oh - we should talk. Happy to answer questions via email or you can get on my calendar for a virtual coffee chat - just click here: Coffee with Charlene

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