![Online Course Creator: how to post engaging content [content idea list]](http://onlineyougrow.com/cdn/shop/articles/cov-marketing-plan-2_2881f0d4-c0fb-49f8-8720-644597edd8c3.png?v=1715865591&width=1100)
Facebook and Instagram are not just for likes and fun—they're powerful tools that the most successful online course creators use strategically to attract students.
We know you're busy developing your courses and the thought of managing social media might feel like another burden.
But here's the deal: you don't need to be a marketing expert or spend a fortune to make it work. Just a few minutes a day can bring a couple of new students to your virtual classroom.
To help you out, we have built a free list of content ideas - also, for a full action plan, please check our strategy pack for online course creators.
Get the content idea list made for course creators
A lot of course creators manage to post engaging content on social media. Here is a free tool to to get you started.
Content that always work well for an online course creator
We have analyzed numerous online course creators' social media strategies while developing our strategy pack for online course creators - here is what consistently drives success.
| Content Type | Why It Works to Attract New Students to Your Online Course |
|---|---|
| High-Quality Course Previews | Visually engaging previews of your course content can spark interest and encourage potential students to enroll. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Videos | Showcasing the course creation process, including planning and filming, builds trust and creates a connection with your audience. |
| Student Testimonials | Positive reviews and testimonials from current or past students provide social proof and encourage others to join your course. |
| Special Offers and Discounts | Announcing limited-time discounts or special offers can attract new students looking for a good deal. |
| User-Generated Content | Sharing content created by your students (e.g., success stories, project showcases) engages the community and adds authenticity. |
| Collaborations with Influencers | Partnering with industry influencers can introduce your course to a broader, relevant audience. |
| Webinar Announcements | Promoting upcoming webinars or live Q&A sessions can attract new students interested in learning more about your course. |
| Seasonal and Holiday Promotions | Highlighting special offers or themed content during holidays can attract students looking for timely learning opportunities. |
| Interactive Content | Polls, quizzes, and Q&A sessions engage followers and create a sense of community, encouraging them to enroll in your course. |
| Free Resource Shares | Sharing free resources or mini-lessons can intrigue potential students and motivate them to explore your full course offerings. |
| Course Updates | Regularly updating followers with new course content or modules keeps your course top-of-mind and encourages enrollments. |
| Instructor Stories | Featuring stories about the instructors creates a personal connection and humanizes your brand. |
| Learning Tips | Sharing tips and tricks related to your course topic can engage followers who are eager to learn and improve their skills. |
| Sustainability Initiatives | Highlighting sustainable practices or ethical considerations in your course content appeals to socially conscious students. |
| Student Spotlights | Featuring successful students creates a sense of community and makes others want to be part of that group. |
| Contests and Giveaways | Running contests and giveaways can increase engagement and attract new followers, many of whom may convert into students. |
Some course creators make 5x more profit than you!
We have studied the strategies of the best course creators in the world. Replicate them now!
How can course creators make great content on social media?
What to Prioritize
You probably know it already, but high-quality videos and visuals of your course content are essential.
People learn with their eyes first. Make sure the lighting is good, the visuals are clear, and the presentation is engaging.
Also, post regularly to keep your audience engaged. It doesn’t have to be daily, but find a schedule that works for you and stick to it. We have prepared a free content calendar for you.
Of course, respond to comments and messages quickly. People appreciate interaction and it makes them feel valued. Don’t just be another “bland” account.
Show the real side of your course creation process. Behind-the-scenes footage, instructor stories, and student testimonials can create a personal connection with your audience.
If you want to keep your potential students excited, highlight any special offers, upcoming webinars, or new course modules. Make sure your followers know what’s new and exciting.
Finally, share positive reviews and testimonials. Social proof is powerful and can help attract new students.
What Doesn’t Matter as Much
Overly polished content does not really matter. Your posts don’t need to be perfect. Authenticity can be more engaging than highly produced content.
Also, don’t feel pressured to jump on every social media trend. Focus on what fits your course “image” and what your audience likes.
If you have a low budget to market your online course, don’t immediately go for paid Ads. Organic reach can still be effective with good content and engagement. You will find tons of tactics and strategies in our strategy pack for course creators.
How to Do It Fast and Efficient
First, spend a few hours once a week recording videos, taking screenshots, and drafting posts. This way, you’re not scrambling daily.
Use Scheduling Tools - tools like Buffer or Hootsuite can schedule posts in advance, saving you time.
Repurpose and use the same content across different platforms. A video on YouTube can be a post on Facebook or a snippet on Instagram.
Encourage students to share their own experiences and tag your course. This is what we call “User-Generated Content”. Reposting these can save you time and build community.
Use apps like Canva for quick and easy graphic design, or Premiere Rush for video editing. These tools can make your content look professional with minimal effort.
Low-budget content ideas for course creators on social media
Our team has curated a list of highly specific, budget-friendly content ideas tailored for online course creators, complete with practical tips to keep costs low and maximize your social media presence.
You might want to incorporate some of these ideas in the marketing plan for your online courses.
| Content Type | Tips to Make It More Affordable |
|---|---|
| Smartphone Course Previews | Use natural light by filming near windows during the day. Enhance videos with free apps like Snapseed or VSCO. |
| Student Testimonials | Ask satisfied students to leave a quick video testimonial on their phone. Offer a discount on future courses as a thank-you. |
| User-Generated Content | Encourage students to share their learning experiences by offering a monthly raffle for those who tag your course on Instagram. |
| DIY Tutorial Videos | Film short, simple tutorials related to your course content using a smartphone and a basic tripod. Use free editing software like iMovie or OpenShot. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Stories | Use Instagram Stories or Facebook Live to give a real-time look at your course creation process or introduce your team during off-hours. |
| Course Launch Announcements | Design simple, eye-catching graphics for course launches using free tools like Canva. Include a brief description and a compelling image. |
| Instructor Spotlights | Feature instructors with a casual photo and fun facts about them. Use your smartphone and a natural setting in your workspace. |
| Simple Polls and Questions | Engage followers with free Instagram or Facebook polls about their learning preferences or suggestions for new course topics. |
| Webinar Promotions | Collaborate with other educators by offering a small discount or free access to a webinar. Cross-promote each other's content to reach a wider audience. |
| Community Involvement Posts | Post photos and short stories about your participation in educational events or partnerships with community organizations. |
| Student Spotlights | Highlight successful students with their achievements. Take a quick photo and share a short story about their learning journey. |
| Home Office Photos | Create attractive setups using inexpensive items like desk organizers, plants, and props from dollar stores. |
| Sustainability Tips | Share eco-friendly practices such as going paperless or using digital resources. Create simple infographics with free tools like Canva. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Prep | Record short clips of your course preparation, such as setting up your workspace or organizing materials. Compile them into a quick video using free tools. |
| Simple Contests and Giveaways | Run social media contests where participants like, share, or tag friends to win a free course. Use prizes that are cost-effective like a free eBook. |
| Seasonal Course Posts | Highlight seasonal topics and courses using natural light and your smartphone camera. Share the story behind the course to add interest. |
Copy the tactics of the best course creators in the world!
There are course creators that make way more money than you do. We have studied their tactics. Get them now!
Exceptionally creative and innovative content ideas specifically for course creators
Investing in high-quality social media content for your online course creation business can be a game-changer. Many other course creators might not put in the effort, giving you a golden opportunity to stand out, capture attention, and build a dedicated following.
| Content Type | Why It Could Attract a LOT of Students |
|---|---|
| Live Webinars | Hosting live webinars where you dive deep into course topics can create a sense of community and attract a global audience eager to learn from you in real-time. |
| Interactive Course Previews | Offering interactive previews of your courses, including sample lessons and behind-the-scenes content, can provide a unique experience and entice potential students to enroll. |
| Limited-Time Discounts | Creating buzz with limited-time discounts or special offers can generate excitement and urgency, attracting new and repeat students. |
| Exclusive Q&A Sessions | Offering exclusive Q&A sessions where students can interact with you directly can create a memorable experience and foster word-of-mouth recommendations. |
| AR Course Previews | Implementing augmented reality (AR) technology in your course previews where students can see a 3D representation of course content can enhance the learning experience and attract tech-savvy learners. |
| Themed Learning Events | Hosting themed learning events, such as a virtual hackathon or a collaborative project night, can provide a unique and immersive experience, attracting groups and special interest learners. |
| Challenge-Based Learning | Organizing challenge-based learning activities (e.g., coding challenges or design sprints) can create viral moments, attracting competitive learners and spectators. |
| Collaborative Workshops | Partnering with other experts or course creators to host collaborative workshops can introduce your courses to new audiences and create a buzz in the learning community. |
| Story-Driven Content | Sharing in-depth stories about the origins of your courses, the experts you collaborate with, or your personal journey can create an emotional connection with students. |
| Interactive Course Design | Allowing students to vote on course topics or modules via social media polls can make them feel involved and eager to enroll in the courses they helped design. |
| Eco-Friendly Initiatives | Launching and promoting eco-friendly initiatives, such as digital-only materials or sustainable practices, can attract environmentally conscious learners and media attention. |
| Pop-Up Learning Sessions | Operating pop-up learning sessions in different online communities or at virtual events can expand your reach and attract new students who may enroll in your main courses later. |
| Subscription-Based Learning | Offering a subscription service where students receive monthly access to new courses and resources can create a loyal student base. |
| Immersive Masterclasses | Hosting masterclasses where students can learn advanced techniques from you or guest experts can attract enthusiasts and create a sense of exclusivity. |
| Flash Learning Events | Organizing flash learning events in unexpected online spaces can create viral content and attract adventurous learners looking for unique experiences. |
Content that never works well for course creators on social media
Don't waste your time and resources on these strategies. We've seen many online course creators make these mistakes, and they won't help you stand out from the crowd or attract new students to your courses.
| Content Type | Why It Never Works for Online Courses | Do This Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Generic Stock Photos | They lack authenticity and can make your course appear unoriginal or untrustworthy. | Use real photos of yourself, your team, and your course materials to create a genuine connection with your audience. |
| Overly Promotional Posts | Constantly pushing promotions can feel spammy and turn off potential students. | Mix in engaging content like behind-the-scenes stories, student testimonials, and interactive posts to keep your audience interested. |
| Unrelated Content | Posting content that has nothing to do with your course or subject matter confuses followers and dilutes your brand. | Keep your content focused on your course topics, educational tips, and related subjects to maintain relevance and interest. |
| Low-Quality Videos | Poorly shot or edited videos can reflect badly on your course's quality and professionalism. | Invest in basic video equipment or hire a local videographer to produce high-quality videos that showcase your course positively. |
| Political or Controversial Posts | These can alienate parts of your audience and lead to negative backlash. | Stick to neutral, positive content that focuses on education, community, and your course's unique offerings. |
| Too Many Hashtags | Overusing hashtags can look desperate and reduce engagement by making posts look cluttered. | Use a few relevant, targeted hashtags to increase visibility without overwhelming your audience. |
| Automated Replies and Messages | They can come off as impersonal and frustrate students looking for genuine interaction. | Respond personally to comments and messages to show that you care about your students and value their feedback. |
| Overly Staged Photos | Photos that look too perfect can seem inauthentic and less relatable. | Use natural lighting and casual settings to make your photos feel more genuine and inviting. |
| Constant Self-Promotion | Only talking about your course can bore followers and reduce engagement. | Share user-generated content, collaborate with other educators, and highlight community involvement to diversify your content. |
| Negative or Defensive Responses | Responding poorly to criticism can damage your reputation and discourage potential students. | Address negative feedback calmly and constructively, showing that you are willing to improve and value student input. |
| Ignoring Social Media Trends | Being out of touch with current trends can make your course seem outdated and unappealing. | Stay updated with social media trends and incorporate them creatively into your content strategy to keep your audience engaged and excited. |
| Excessive Posting | Posting too frequently can overwhelm your followers and lead to unfollows. | Maintain a consistent but moderate posting schedule, ensuring each post adds value and keeps your audience looking forward to your updates. |
| Complex or Confusing Promotions | Promotions that are hard to understand can frustrate potential students and deter participation. | Offer simple, clear, and straightforward promotions that are easy for students to grasp and engage with. |
| Ignoring Comments and Messages | Not engaging with your audience can make them feel undervalued and reduce their loyalty. | Regularly respond to comments and messages to build a strong, interactive community around your course. |
Make your online course creation platform more profitable
We have studied the strategies of the best course creators in the world. All their tactics are explained in our pack!
Why social media can be a big pay-off for your online course creation platform
We understand that as an online course creator, you might feel hesitant about diving into social media marketing.
The world of social media can seem foreign and filled with confusing jargon. You might believe that it's more suited for big corporations rather than individual educators like you.
The day-to-day demands of creating and managing your courses are already overwhelming, leaving little time for additional tasks like social media.
It's common to think that social media marketing is an expensive endeavor, one that your tight budget can't support. Plus, the sheer number of social media platforms can lead to indecision and skepticism, especially if previous efforts haven't yielded the results you hoped for.
That's why we've created a "marketing pack" specifically tailored for online course creators like you.
Our pack addresses all the issues you might face, offering simple, cost-effective strategies that don't require a marketing expert or a big budget for your online courses. These documents are straightforward and easy to understand, cutting through the jargon and focusing on what really works for individual educators on social media.
We provide clear, actionable steps for creating engaging posts, building a loyal following, and boosting your course's visibility online.
With our marketing pack, you can invest in your course's growth without feeling overwhelmed or uncertain.
Your online course creation platform could make more money!
Most course creators don't know how to grow their business. Let us teach you the right strategies.
