From ‘Oops’ to Outstanding: Why Your Online Course Build Deserves Better

We've run a successful course creation and digital learning business since 2009, and over the past six years, Upwork has been just one of several lead generation tools we've utilised to connect with clients.

In that time, we’ve completed hundreds of projects on the platform alone, helping coaches, consultants, educators, and business owners bring their Kajabi platforms and online courses to life.

But here’s the part most people don’t talk about:

We’re frequently approached by clients who have already hired someone else and now need help “unpicking” a failed project.

From broken automations to confusing course structures to entire websites that need rebuilding, it’s not uncommon. And most of these situations started the same way:

• They chose the cheapest option.

• They assumed it was “just a tech job.”

• They didn’t get to know who they were hiring.

So, how do you avoid that?

Here’s what we’ve learned works best for you and us:

• Hire for expertise, not just execution.
  Look for people who ask strategic questions and understand your goals, not just your task list.

• Speak before you sign.
  A brief Zoom call reveals more than a flashy portfolio ever could. Chemistry matters in a working relationship.

• Be clear on outcomes, not just outputs.
  What does success look like? A live course? A full funnel? A polished student experience? Define it together.

• Invest in people who think long-term.
  Freelancers who charge more typically do so for a reason; they bring years of experience, proven systems, and big-picture thinking.

• Don’t ghost your freelancer.
  Communication is everything. If your freelancer disappears, it’s a red flag. If you disappear, expect project delays.

We’ve built long-term relationships with clients who treat us as partners, not task rabbits. In return, we’ve helped them scale courses, build memberships, launch communities, and generate recurring revenue.

If you want your project done right the first time, invest in the right people.

To achieve long-term results, cultivate a long-term relationship.

Top 5 Things to Avoid When Hiring Freelancers (in a nutshell)

1. Choosing based on the lowest quote

2. Skipping a discovery call

3. Vague briefs or unclear outcomes

4. No written scope or contract

5. Expecting results without collaboration

Further Reading from Harvard Business Review

• What the New Freelance Economy Means for Your Talent Strategy (2024)
  Why Strategic Hiring Drives Successful Platform Outcomes.

• Highly Skilled Professionals Want Your Work, But Not Your Job (2024)
  Emphasises the autonomy and expectations of top-tier freelancers.

  How Flexible Hiring Models Are Redefining Workforce Resilience (2025)
  Demonstrates how blending freelancers and employees fosters agility and drives ROI.

Ready to Work with a Proven Expert?

If you’re serious about getting your online course or Kajabi setup right the first time, let’s talk.

We’re not here to offer quick fixes; we’re here to help you build something that lasts.
Contact us to schedule a call and see if we’re the right fit for your project.