Stop sending robotic course launch emails

Your course launch emails are technically perfect. The timing is automated, the subject lines are A/B tested, and the CTAs are strategically placed. But something’s off—your open rates are stagnant, replies are rare, and sales feel like pulling teeth. The problem isn’t your toolset. It’s how you’re using it.

You’re treating subscribers like a monolith

Most solopreneurs blast the same sequence to everyone who opts in. But a recent webinar attendee isn’t the same as a cold lead who downloaded a free PDF. Generic messaging fails because it ignores intent. Segment your list by engagement level (e.g., clicked vs. didn’t open) and tailor content accordingly. A sales funnel and automation tool can help here, but only if you define the rules first.

Your emails read like a manual

Step-by-step tutorials have their place—but not in your launch sequence. People don’t buy courses for features; they buy outcomes. Instead of “Module 3 covers X,” try “Here’s how Sarah fixed her workflow in 20 minutes.” Inject client stories, behind-the-scenes struggles, or even humor. Automation doesn’t mean sacrificing personality.

You’re missing the “why now” urgency

Countdown timers and “last chance” labels feel gimmicky when overused. Real urgency comes from context. Did you just spot a trend your course addresses? Share it. Did a student hit a milestone using your method? Highlight it. Tie deadlines to real-world events, not arbitrary calendar dates.

Your CTAs are transactional, not relational

“Buy now” works for Walmart, not for creators. Build trust first by offering micro-commitments: “Reply with your biggest hurdle” or “Watch this 90-second case study.” Warm leads convert better than cold ones. Use automation to trigger follow-ups based on these interactions—like sending a personalized video after someone clicks a specific link.

The fix isn’t scrapping automation—it’s designing sequences that feel human. Start with one tweak: tomorrow, send an email asking a single question instead of pitching. Watch how replies (and rapport) grow.

By Florent