Are you feeling stuck with your group program? Are sign-ups slowing, client engagement dropping off, or your marketing losing traction? You’re not alone. Many program creators fall into the same trap—a cookie-cutter model that looks and feels just like everyone else’s. But here’s the truth: it’s not your fault. The way group programs are taught in the online space often encourages this sameness. The good news? You can break free from this pattern and create something truly transformative and unique. Let’s dive into the key issues and how to fix them.
The Carbon Copy Trap: Why It’s Failing You
The no.1 mistake holding your group program back is that you've fallen into the carbon copy trap. Most group programs follow a familiar formula: a year-long timeline, surface-level curriculum, a learning management system for DIY lessons, Q&A calls, and a community (usually on Facebook or Circle). While this structure has been marketed as “tried and tested,” it often falls short of delivering deep transformation for clients. Why? Because it’s generic, predictable, and doesn’t reflect your unique expertise.
Programs are often made year-long, not because it takes that long to deliver results, but to secure recurring revenue. The curriculum tends to focus on the “how” but rarely goes deep enough, leaving participants to Google additional resources or feel underwhelmed. And while workbooks and templates are helpful, they don’t always lead to the engagement or results you envision. The result? Your program blends into an already crowded market, and clients don’t stick around long enough to see real transformation.
How This Mistake Shows Up in Your Business
If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a sign your program might be stuck in the carbon-copy cycle:
Slower sign-ups and plateauing business growth.
Clients dropping off early, often within the first six weeks.
A curriculum that feels predictable or lacks depth.
The need to add more and more content to “add value.”
Feeling like your program isn’t scalable because it relies too heavily on you.
Considering turning your program into a certification or even closing it altogether.
These issues can make you feel like you’re on a hamster wheel, constantly trying to fix symptoms without addressing the root cause. But don’t worry—there’s a way out.
The Solution: Trust Yourself and Customise Your Program
Here’s the secret: your group program doesn’t need to follow someone else’s template. It needs to reflect your unique expertise and the specific results you want to deliver. Start by asking yourself these questions:
How long does it really take to get results? If it’s less than a year, consider shortening your program and offering follow-ups for recurring revenue.
Is your curriculum focused on your core expertise? Avoid adding unrelated content just to fill gaps. Instead, partner with other experts or refer clients to additional resources.
Are you clear about prerequisites? If clients need prior knowledge or skills (like understanding marketing funnels), state this upfront on your sales page.
Are you regularly updating your program? Treat your program like a living, breathing entity that evolves with new insights and industry changes.
By tailoring your program to align with your strengths and your clients’ needs, you can create a learning experience that feels fresh, engaging, and transformational.
Prioritise Program Development as Much as Marketing
One of the biggest mistakes program creators make is focusing too much on marketing and not enough on program development. But here’s the truth: a well-designed, unique program is your best marketing tool. When clients see real results, they become your biggest advocates, driving word-of-mouth referrals and boosting your reputation.
Invest time in learning how people learn, refining your curriculum, and making updates based on client feedback. Think of yourself as the “professor” of your industry, constantly expanding your knowledge and sharing it with your community. This approach not only enhances client outcomes but also opens the door to new revenue streams, making your program the foundation of a scalable, sustainable business.
Break Free and Stand Out
To sum it up: stop trying to fit your program into a cookie-cutter model. Trust yourself to make bold changes that reflect your expertise and your clients’ needs. Whether it’s shortening the timeline, deepening the curriculum, or bringing in guest experts, these adjustments can make all the difference.
Remember, everything you need to elevate your program is already within you. Your clients chose to work with you for a reason—so let your unique perspective shine through in your program design. With a little trust and innovation, you can create a program that not only stands out but also transforms lives.
What’s one change you could make to your group program today to make it more aligned with your vision? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!
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