Starting out as a co-producer can feel exciting, but also intimidating. You know the potential of digital education, and you’re ready to put your skills to work. But the question remains: how do you actually find your first expert to co-produce a course with?
In this article, we’ll cover practical strategies to help you identify, approach, and secure your first co-production partner.
Why Choosing the Right First Partner Matters
Your first project sets the tone for your career as a co-producer. A supportive and motivated expert can lead to:
- A successful first launch that builds confidence
- A portfolio case study to attract future partners
- Testimonials and referrals for more opportunities
- A smoother learning curve as you refine your process
On the other hand, the wrong partner may cause delays, stress, or a failed launch that discourages you from moving forward.
Step 1: Identify Your Ideal Expert Profile
Not every expert is a good match for co-production. Before searching, define what kind of partner you want.
Look for experts who:
- Have proven knowledge or skills in a niche with demand
- Already create content (blogs, podcasts, social media posts)
- Show consistency and dedication in their field
- Have at least a small engaged audience
- Are open-minded and willing to collaborate
Avoid experts who:
- Constantly delay or cancel commitments
- Expect you to carry 100% of the work
- Lack clarity in what they want to teach
- Show little respect for business partnerships
Step 2: Search in the Right Places
Finding your first expert requires putting yourself where experts already are.
Where to look:
- Social media (Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok)
- Online communities and Facebook groups
- Networking events and webinars
- Podcasts featuring coaches and consultants
- Freelance platforms where professionals sell expertise
- Your personal network (friends, colleagues, acquaintances)
Step 3: Start With Value, Not Demands
Experts are often approached by people asking for opportunities. To stand out, focus on giving value first.
Examples of adding value:
- Provide a free funnel audit or marketing suggestion
- Share content ideas tailored to their audience
- Send a short analysis of how they could turn an idea into a course
- Offer to help with a mini-project before proposing full co-production
This shows initiative and professionalism, making them more likely to trust you.
Step 4: Pitch With Clarity and Confidence
Once you’ve built some connection, it’s time to propose co-production.
Your pitch should include:
- Who you are and what you do
- What problem you can solve for them
- A simple explanation of co-production
- Why you think they’d make a great course creator
- A suggested next step (like a call)
Example message:
“Hi [Name], I’ve been following your work on [platform] and love how you [specific compliment]. I believe your expertise would translate into a powerful online course. I help professionals like you turn knowledge into structured, marketable digital programs. Would you be open to a quick call to explore how we could co-produce something together?”
Step 5: Start Small if Necessary
If an expert is hesitant, propose starting with a smaller collaboration, like:
- Co-creating a free workshop or webinar
- Building a lead magnet funnel
- Testing a mini-course or paid workshop
This lowers the risk and gives both of you a chance to see if the partnership works.
Step 6: Use Contracts From the Start
Even with your first client, always use a written agreement. Clearly define:
- Roles and responsibilities
- Profit-sharing percentages
- Timeline and deadlines
- Payment and expense arrangements
- Ownership of content and assets
This builds professionalism and avoids misunderstandings.
Step 7: Build Your Reputation as You Go
Your first project is not just about income — it’s about building credibility. Use it to:
- Create a case study showing results
- Collect testimonials and feedback
- Refine your systems and processes
- Document your role clearly for future pitches
Every successful project becomes marketing for the next one.
Common Mistakes Beginners Make
- Waiting for the perfect expert: Don’t delay — your first partner doesn’t need to be famous, just committed.
- Overpromising: Be realistic about results, especially if it’s your first project.
- Not being selective: Saying yes to anyone can lead to frustrating collaborations.
- Skipping contracts: Even with friends or acquaintances, always formalize the deal.
Final Thoughts: Your First Expert Opens the Door
Finding your first expert to co-produce with may feel challenging, but it’s also your biggest opportunity. By identifying the right partner, adding value, pitching confidently, and starting small, you’ll not only land your first collaboration but also set the stage for a long and successful career as a co-producer.
Remember: you don’t need the biggest expert to start — you need the right one. Focus on building trust, proving your value, and learning from the experience. The first step will open many more doors.