Creating and selling digital products can be a top way for you to start an online business today. The attractions are low overheads, unlimited scalability, and the freedom to work from anywhere you choose. However before you jump straight in you need to be aware that you can waste your time if you approach it wrong. From experience There are 5 common mistakes beginners make.
1. Trying to Make the “Perfect” Product
You need to understand that there is no such thing as the perfect product. What you think is the best thing since sliced bread, another will find fault with it. You can’t please everyone all the time. When you design and create a digital product don’t be like the ‘Artist’ that is forever tinkering with the painting.
Perfectionism slows you down and will delay your product launch. A good product that people can buy now is better than a perfect product that never gets released.
2. Choosing a Product Based on What’s Popular—Not What They Understand
This is a big one. You might look at other digital product creators and see that they have success in a particular area. So you think that you will also jump into the market, replicate the product and idea and sit back and wait for the dollars and pounds to roll in.
Here’s the rub though; Just because something sells well for others doesn’t mean you should create it, AND that it will sell for you.
The best tip is to stick to topics where you have genuine knowledge. Products you can create that have a unique edge, from your experience are the best.
3. Making a Product Without Validating the Idea
Sadly, many beginners create a product no one asked for. In one of my other articles I mention gold plated Bentley motor cars. A fantastic product, yes, but who wants or can afford one?
So, Always test your idea before creation and launch by:
- Asking your audience
- Doing keyword research
- Checking marketplace demand
Time you spend on Validation prevents wasted time. There are plenty of tools to help you here, from Keyword research, to Google and Pinterest trends.
4. Underpricing Their Product
Potential customers are a funny breed. You will have heard the expression that if something seems too good to be true, then it usually is.
The same is with prices. Beginners often set prices too low to “attract buyers.” Low prices can actually make your product look less valuable. Your potential customer will perceive what the value of your product is based on the price.
You need to research your market, similar products and price your offering confidently.
5. Neglecting Promotion
Creating your digital product is only half the work. Once you have you need to start promoting it. Successful digital product creators spend as much time marketing as they do building the product.
Promotion is what brings customers. A good saying is that
‘A Spider builds its’ web over the door of the business that doesn’t promote’
If you want to know more about promoting your digital products head over to my article How to Promote and Sell Digital Products a Beginners Guide.
Final Thoughts
Creating digital products is one of the simplest and most rewarding ways you can start an online business. Whether you choose ebooks, templates, courses, or creative assets, the key is to solve a real problem for a specific audience.
Focus on clarity over perfection, test your ideas early, and promote consistently. With time and practice, you can build yourself a profitable digital product business.
If you are looking for a fast start with making money from your own digital products then I have a course option for you, Created by a former freelancer. It’s a 30-day framework, with 3,000+ students launched with the content.
The course is a Validation-first approach that actually works, and in 30 days, you could have your first product created, launched, and earning you income.
Here’s a little transparency: my website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to research and bring you quality content. I only recommend products that provide genuine value.”Thank You for your support.“
“This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as financial or business advice. Individual results may vary based on effort, consistency, market conditions, product quality, and adherence to the program guidelines. The techniques have been tested with thousands of students across various niches and skill levels. This product does not guarantee specific income results and is not a substitute for professional business or legal advice when needed. Always do your own research and due diligence before making business decisions.”