Build Your Spiky Point of View to Stand Out | Wes Kao (Co-Founder, Maven)

TL;DR

Learn how to create, market, and teach online courses effectively, including tips on developing a spiky point of view and using the state change method to keep students engaged.

Transcript

spiky point of view is your unique perspective on the topic of your expertise that other people other experts might disagree with so if you brought 20 marketers into a room and you say your spiky point of view 19 other people might disagree with it and they would have good reason for doing so so the point is not to say something that is a mic drop ... Read More

Key Insights

• 🫵 A spiky point of view is essential for online instructors to differentiate themselves in a crowded market.
• 💦 Operators can work with their employers to teach courses by positioning it as a way to give back and highlight their company.
• ❓ When creating courses, consider the market demand and what you are genuinely passionate about teaching.
• 🧑‍🎓 Engaging students in online courses requires frequent state changes to maintain their attention and involvement.
• 🥶 Creators can strategically build their audience by tapping into existing communities, partnering with brands, and providing value through free workshops or interviews.
• 🏛️ Start with one flagship product or channel and focus on adding value consistently to build trust with your audience.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is a spiky point of view, and why is it important in online teaching?

A spiky point of view is a unique perspective on a topic that other experts may disagree with. It helps instructors stand out and attract like-minded students who resonate with their perspective.

Q: How can operators work with their employers to teach courses online?

Operators can position teaching as a way to give back to the community and showcase their expertise, benefiting both the company and the individual. Many employers are increasingly supportive of employees sharing knowledge and building a personal brand.

Q: How do you determine the market demand and the topic to teach for an online course?

Consider the urgency and importance of the problem you can address with your course. Look for questions people frequently ask you, signaling their trust in your expertise. Find the overlap between external market demand and your internal passions and insights to choose a compelling topic.

Q: How can creators make their courses engaging and avoid monologues?

Use the state change method, which involves interrupting your monologue every 3 to 5 minutes with a change in activity or engagement. This can include screen sharing, breakout sessions, Q&A, guided exercises, or allowing students to unmute and participate actively.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Maven co-founder Wes Cow shares his journey from working in marketing to co-founding Maven, an online course platform.

• Maven revolutionized online learning by introducing cohort-based courses that are community-driven and project-based.

• Cow discusses the importance of having a spiky point of view to stand out in a crowded market and shares insights on how to overcome challenges in teaching online.