When I first started selling online, I thought I just needed a product, a sales page, and a few links posted around the internet, but I quickly learned that’s not how sales happen. And of course, it cost me time, money, and a lot of energy to figure that out.
Selling online is more than just “putting it out there.” It’s about knowing how to get in front of the right people, connect with them, and guide them toward a decision.
Whether you’re selling a digital course, coaching, services, or physical products, these lessons can save you months, maybe years of frustration.
Mistake #1- Trying to sell before building an audience
This was my rookie move. I’d build my sales page, drop the link in forums, Facebook groups, and social media posts, thinking someone would click and buy, but I was mostly ignored.Â
Why it doesn’t work:
People don’t buy from strangers they don’t trust. You need to warm them up first.
Here’s what to do instead:
- Spend time helping and answering questions in communities.
- Create content your audience actually needs.
- Show up consistently so people start recognizing you.
- Build an email list and nurture it with value before asking for the sale.
- Once people know, like, and trust you, sales feel natural.
Mistake #2- Pricing without strategy
When I launched my first course, I priced it at $97. I got buyers but also a lot of refunds.
So, I raised it to $197, and refunds dropped. Then $297, same thing. Higher price, fewer refunds, and better customers.
What I realized is that too low a price attracts those who aren’t invested enough to take action.
Too high a price for little value turns people away.
What works:
Price is based on the value and results your product delivers. If your offer can help someone earn more, change their health, or transform their life, it’s worth more than a low ticket.
Quick tip:
Test your pricing. Sell, collect feedback, adjust. Find the sweet spot where your ideal customers perceive it as valuable and commit to the work.
Mistake #3- Not automating & scaling early
In the beginning, I did everything myself, staying up until 2 a.m. writing copy, building pages, sending emails. That’s fine at first, but it’s not sustainable.
What I wish I had done sooner:
Use automation tools for emails, social posting, and webinars.
Create evergreen webinars that sell for you while you focus on other things. Hire someone who can handle tech, marketing, and execution, so you can focus on growth. Build a small team of doers and leaders who can take tasks off your plate.
Automation with the right people means freedom to grow faster.
Do a self-analysis and let me know which of these mistakes you have made, and what’s your biggest challenge when it comes to selling online?Â
Also, if you liked this, subscribe to my YouTube channel for more tips on selling, scaling, and building a business you love.
