Strong communication is the foundation of every successful co-production partnership. As a co-producer, you’re responsible for managing timelines, strategy, and execution — but without effective communication with the expert, even the best plans can fall apart. Misunderstandings, delays, and unmet expectations often come from poor communication rather than lack of skill.
In this article, we’ll explore how to build a smooth and productive communication flow with course experts, ensuring collaboration stays positive and results-driven.
Why Communication Matters in Co-Production
Unlike one-off freelance projects, co-production is a long-term partnership. You and the expert will work together for weeks or months to create and launch the course. Clear communication helps to:
- Align expectations from the start
- Avoid confusion about roles and responsibilities
- Build trust and strengthen the partnership
- Solve problems before they grow into conflicts
- Keep the project on track and on schedule
Common Communication Challenges
Many co-producers face similar issues when working with experts:
- Unclear roles: The expert isn’t sure what the co-producer does.
- Slow responses: Delays in feedback hold up progress.
- Too much information: Long, unfocused messages create confusion.
- Different work styles: One person prefers structured updates, the other likes casual chats.
- Avoiding difficult conversations: Money, deadlines, and expectations aren’t addressed directly.
Recognizing these challenges helps you prepare solutions before they damage the partnership.
Setting the Foundation Early
The best time to establish communication rules is at the very beginning of the project.
Define Roles Clearly
Create a simple document or contract that explains:
- What the expert is responsible for (content creation, teaching, appearing in videos)
- What the co-producer is responsible for (strategy, marketing, tech, analytics)
- What both share responsibility for (student experience, long-term growth)
Choose Communication Tools
Agree on how you’ll communicate:
- Slack or WhatsApp for quick updates
- Trello, ClickUp, or Notion for task management
- Weekly Zoom calls for check-ins
- Email for formal updates
Having one main channel avoids confusion.
Set a Meeting Rhythm
Weekly or bi-weekly check-ins help keep momentum. Use these calls to:
- Review completed tasks
- Discuss upcoming priorities
- Address problems before they escalate
Tips for Day-to-Day Communication
Keep It Clear and Concise
Experts are busy. Use short, structured messages that make it easy to understand what you need.
Example:
“Hi Sarah, can you send me the Module 2 outline by Friday? This will allow me to prepare the slides for next week.”
Use Visuals
Screenshots, Loom videos, and flowcharts often communicate faster than long emails.
Summarize Agreements
After meetings, send a quick recap:
- Decisions made
- Deadlines agreed upon
- Next steps for each person
This prevents misunderstandings.
Respect Their Expertise
Even if you’re managing the process, remember that the expert is the authority on content. Frame suggestions as collaboration, not criticism.
Instead of:
“Your video script is too long.”
Say:
“To keep students engaged, let’s shorten Module 3 into two shorter videos.”
Handling Difficult Conversations
Money, delays, or disagreements are inevitable. Avoiding them only makes things worse.
Address Issues Early
If deadlines are slipping, bring it up immediately. Use “we” language to focus on solutions.
Example:
“We’re running a week behind. How can we adjust the schedule together to stay on track?”
Stay Professional
Even in tense situations, keep the tone calm and respectful. Emotions cloud problem-solving.
Use Data
Instead of arguing opinions, use metrics. If an expert questions your marketing approach, show data from email open rates or landing page conversions.
Building Trust Over Time
Trust isn’t built overnight — it comes from consistent, reliable communication.
Always Deliver on Promises
If you say you’ll send a funnel draft by Tuesday, deliver it. Consistency builds credibility.
Share Wins
Celebrate progress together. Share when a funnel gets great conversions or when students give positive feedback.
Be Transparent
If something goes wrong, admit it quickly and present a solution. Experts respect honesty more than excuses.
Adapting to Different Communication Styles
Some experts prefer structured, professional communication. Others like casual, fast updates. As the co-producer, adapt your style to theirs.
Analytical Experts
- Prefer data and reports
- Respond well to spreadsheets and metrics
Creative Experts
- Prefer brainstorming sessions
- Respond well to visuals and storytelling
Busy Experts
- Prefer quick summaries
- Respond well to bullet points and short Loom videos
Final Thoughts: Communication as a Competitive Advantage
Technical skills, marketing knowledge, and strategy are essential for co-producers — but communication is what makes everything work. A co-producer who can communicate clearly, handle difficult conversations, and build trust will always stand out.
Remember: clear communication prevents problems, strengthens partnerships, and ensures smoother launches. Mastering this skill will make you not just a co-producer, but a sought-after business partner.