One of the biggest mistakes training providers make when marketing their courses is trying to appeal to everyone.
The truth is, your course isn’t for everyone.
And it shouldn’t be.
A course without clearly defined prerequisites risks attracting learners who aren’t ready for the content or, worse, will struggle and disengage. But when you define who your course is truly for, your marketing becomes sharper, your learners are more engaged, and your results are far stronger.
Set Your Learners Up for Success
Every course should include prerequisites, a.k.a., a list of knowledge, skills, or experience that learners should have before enrolling. These act as a filter, ensuring that those who join can fully benefit from the content rather than feeling lost or overwhelmed.
Ask yourself:
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What baseline knowledge should learners have?
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Do they need specific qualifications, skills, or experience?
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Would pre-course reading or exercises help them get the most from your training?
Example: A Digital Marketing Masterclass
Imagine you’re offering a Digital Marketing Masterclass. If your marketing says:
👉 “Perfect for anyone looking to improve their marketing skills!”
…you’ll likely attract beginners, intermediates, and experts – all with very different needs.
A better approach would be:
👉 “This course is designed for professionals with at least two years of experience in digital marketing. Participants should have a working knowledge of Google Ads and social media advertising. We recommend reading ‘The Fundamentals of Digital Marketing’ before attending.”
This instantly filters the audience, ensuring only the right learners sign up, and they arrive prepared.
Bonus Points for Those Who Provide Pre-Course Resources
Go the extra mile by offering:
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Pre-reading materials to introduce key concepts.
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Short quizzes to help learners assess their readiness.
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Pre-course exercises that reinforce foundational knowledge.
By doing this, you ensure better learning outcomes, higher engagement, and fewer drop-offs, which ultimately improves your reputation as a training provider.
Final Thoughts
Marketing your course with precision isn’t about excluding people; it’s about making sure the right people join. The clearer you are about who will benefit most, the more impactful and effective your training will be.
Take a look at your course descriptions today: do they truly reflect who your course is for? If not, now’s the time to refine them!
