The art of the “next step” (not the hard sell). 🌌

— AI prompts to help you introduce Course B right after Course A.

Estimated Reading Time: 5 Minutes. — Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025.

Hello again, Morphoicers!

You’ve got students in the door. They’re learning, progressing, and loving the journey. But here’s the golden question: how do you turn one happy learner into a repeat customer—without sounding like a late-night infomercial?

This week in Tools of the Trade, we’re unpacking cross-selling strategies powered by AI prompts. These are designed to help you introduce your other courses in a way that feels like a natural next step, not a sales pitch.

Today’s Tool: Cross-Sell Prompts

Tool Type: AI Prompt Templates for Course Marketing
Key Benefit: Guide students toward your other offers by framing them as the obvious “next chapter” in their learning journey.

How It Works

Cross-selling isn’t about squeezing one more sale—it’s about building momentum. When framed right, students see Course B as the logical bridge after Course A.

That’s where prompts shine. They’ll help you:

• Write emails that feel like recommendations, not promotions.

• Weave mentions of your next course naturally into content.

• Time your offers so they land exactly when curiosity peaks.

Prompt 1: Natural Cross-Sell Email

Purpose: To generate a supportive cross-sell email for graduates of an AI-driven course, introducing a complementary course as a natural next step in their learning journey, fostering continued growth for e-commerce store owners without aggressive sales tactics.

Title: Natural Cross-Sell Email for AI-Driven Course Graduates.

Refined AI Prompt Template – Natural Cross-Sell Email

1. Title
Natural Cross-Sell Email: Introduce [Course B] to Graduates of [Course A]

2. Purpose
Guide [audience] who completed [Course A] toward enrolling in [Course B] by positioning it as a natural progression in their learning journey for [niche].

3. Funnel Stage Tags
Sales → Post-Purchase → Upsell / Cross-Sell

4. Role
You are an expert in email copywriting, student engagement, and customer success-driven sales, specializing in crafting supportive cross-sell emails for [offer type] graduates in [niche].

5. Context (1-Line Use Case)
Send this email after [audience] complete [Course A] or within their completion certificate message to position [Course B] as the next step in their growth.

6. Input Variables
- [niche] → e.g., e-commerce
- [audience] → e.g., e-commerce store owners
- [Course A] → e.g., AI-Driven Customer Support
- [Course B] → e.g., Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce
- [offer type] → e.g., self-paced online course
- [tone/style] → e.g., supportive and professional
- [pain points] → e.g., technical overwhelm, low tech adoption
- [aspirations] → e.g., streamlined operations, increased sales

7. Instructions to AI
Write a supportive cross-sell email for [audience] who completed [Course A], introducing [Course B] as the next natural step in their [niche] learning journey. Structure the email with:
- Congratulatory opening (acknowledge completion of [Course A])
- Bridge statement (highlight growth and momentum)
- Introduction of [Course B] as a logical next step
- Clear CTA to explore or join [Course B]
Ensure the email is 150–250 words, benefit-driven, aligns with [pain points] and [aspirations], and matches [tone/style].

8. Constraints
- Avoid aggressive sales language.
- Keep email between 150–250 words.
- Use a conversational, encouraging [tone/style].
- Focus on benefits and growth, not features.
- Address [pain points] and [aspirations] to connect with [audience].

9. Output Format
Type: Email copy
Includes: Subject line, body copy (150–250 words), and CTA link

10. Example Output
Niche: E-commerce
Audience: E-commerce store owners
Course A: AI-Driven Customer Support
Course B: Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce
Offer Type: Self-paced online course
Tone/Style: Supportive and professional
Pain Points: Technical overwhelm, low tech adoption
Aspirations: Streamlined operations, increased sales

Overview: This prompt generates a supportive cross-sell email for e-commerce store owners who completed the AI-Driven Customer Support Course, introducing Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce as the next step to address technical overwhelm and achieve streamlined operations.

Subject: Your Next Step to Mastering AI in E-Commerce

Hi [First Name],

Congratulations on completing AI-Driven Customer Support! You’ve taken a huge step toward streamlining your store’s operations, and we’re thrilled to see your progress in overcoming technical challenges.

Now that you’ve mastered AI-driven support, the next natural step is Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce. This course builds on your skills, showing you how to use AI to analyze customer data and boost sales with precision. It’s your path to turning support efficiency into revenue growth, making your store more competitive.

Ready to take your e-commerce game to the next level?

[Explore Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce Here]

We’re excited to support your continued success!

Best regards,
[Your Name / Brand Team]

Visual Suggestion: Canva email template with a clean, professional design highlighting the CTA.
Tracking Metrics: Monitor email open rate, click-through rate, and Course B enrollment rate via Thinkific analytics.

11. Workflow Link
Fits into Sales Funnel Post-Purchase Workflow:
- Send after [Course A] completion or within certificate message → Trigger this cross-sell email.
- Feed details into “Sales Page Draft” prompt for Course B landing page.
- Use “Email Sequence: Post-Purchase Follow-Up” prompt to nurture further.
Pairs with:
- Generate Sales Page Copy Prompts (position Course B).
- Generate Email Sequence Prompts (extend cross-sell campaign).

12. Optional Enhancements
- Include a limited-time discount for Course B (e.g., 10% off for 7 days).
- Add a testimonial from a Course A graduate who benefited from Course B.
- Suggest a teaser module preview for Course B.
- Offer a feedback survey to refine email messaging.

13. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using pushy sales tactics, alienating [audience].
- Exceeding 250 words, reducing readability.
- Focusing on [Course B] features instead of benefits.
- Ignoring [pain points] or [aspirations], weakening relevance.

14. Additional Premium Enhancements
- Customization Options:
  - Users can specify [pain points], [aspirations], or [tone/style].
  - Adjust for [audience] segments (e.g., small vs. enterprise stores).
  - Tailor for [offer type] variations (e.g., group program).
- Advanced Variations:
  - Variation 1: Focus on aspirational messaging for advanced [audience].
  - Variation 2: Emphasize quick-win benefits for beginners.
  - Variation 3: Include a community access teaser with Course B.
- Visual/Structural Guides:
  - Suggest a Canva email template with benefit-driven visuals.
  - Include a funnel diagram for post-purchase-to-cross-sell flow.

15. Review and Refinement Criteria
After completing the output, review for:
- Relevance: Does the email address [pain points] and [aspirations]?
- Tone: Is it supportive and aligned with [tone/style]?
- Clarity: Is the CTA clear and compelling?
- Length: Is the email 150–250 words?
- Impact: Do [tracking metrics] align with cross-sell goals?
Refine to ensure the email is professional, actionable, and student-focused.

16. Implementation Guide
Integrate the email into [delivery platform, e.g., Thinkific] post-completion automation or certificate delivery. Promote via email campaigns targeting Course A graduates. Track [tracking metrics] to optimize open rates and conversions.

17. Final Notes
This prompt delivers a supportive, growth-oriented cross-sell email for [Course A] graduates in [niche], positioning [Course B] as the next step for [audience] to achieve their [aspirations].

Indications of Use – Natural Cross-Sell Email Prompt

Placeholders Explained

• [Course A] → The course the audience already completed. Example: “AI-Driven Customer Support.”

• [Course B] → The course you want to promote as the next step. Example: “Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce.”

• [audience] → The learners you’re targeting. Example: “E-commerce store owners.”

• [niche] → The broader market context. Example: “E-commerce.”

• [offer type] → Format of your product. Example: “Self-paced online course.”

• [tone/style] → The way the email should feel. Example: “Supportive and professional.”

• [pain points] → Specific struggles your audience faces. Example: “Technical overwhelm.”

• [aspirations] → Desired goals or outcomes. Example: “Increased sales.”

Notes on Customization

• Must Change Every Time

  • [Course A], [Course B], [audience], [niche], [offer type] → These make the email relevant and specific.

• Optional Improvements

  • Refine [tone/style] to match your brand voice.

  • Add [pain points] and [aspirations] directly from surveys, testimonials, or client feedback.

  • Insert urgency or incentives (e.g., “10% off for 7 days”).

  • Include visuals, testimonials, or a preview module for stronger impact.

Example Output:

Prompt 2: Related Content Hooks

Purpose: To generate five natural, non-salesy ways to mention a follow-up course within an AI-driven course, subtly positioning it as the next step for e-commerce store owners to continue their learning journey without aggressive promotion.

Title: Related Content Hook: Natural Mentions of [Course B] Inside [Course A] for AI-Driven Course.

Refined AI Prompt Template – Related Content Hook

1. Title
Related Content Hook: Suggest 5 Natural Mentions of [Course B] Inside [Course A]

2. Purpose
Organically position [Course B] as the next step for [audience] in [niche] taking [Course A], weaving it into lessons, resources, or bonus content to feel natural and student-focused.

3. Funnel Stage Tags
Sales → Post-Purchase → Cross-Sell Enablement

4. Role
You are an expert in curriculum design, student engagement, and subtle sales integration, specializing in embedding cross-sell opportunities within [offer type] content for [niche].

5. Context (1-Line Use Case)
Use this to subtly introduce [Course B] to [audience] consuming [Course A], making the progression feel like a natural extension of their learning journey.

6. Input Variables
- [niche] → e.g., e-commerce
- [audience] → e.g., e-commerce store owners
- [Course A] → e.g., AI-Driven Customer Support
- [Course B] → e.g., Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce
- [offer type] → e.g., self-paced online course
- [tone/style] → e.g., educational and supportive
- [pain points] → e.g., technical overwhelm, low tech adoption
- [aspirations] → e.g., streamlined operations, increased sales

7. Instructions to AI
Generate five natural, non-salesy ways to reference [Course B] inside [Course A] for [audience] in [niche]. Each suggestion should:
- Fit into course delivery (lesson transitions, resources, PDFs, bonus materials, emails).
- Position [Course B] as a “next step” or deeper dive, addressing [pain points] and [aspirations].
- Be short (1–2 sentences), actionable, and adaptable across text, video, or downloadable content.
Output in a list format with placement and example wording.

8. Constraints
- Avoid pushy or repetitive mentions.
- Keep each idea 1–2 sentences long.
- Align with [tone/style] (e.g., educational, supportive).
- Focus on student success, not marketing copy.
- Ensure mentions address [pain points] and [aspirations].

9. Output Format
Type: List of five suggestions
Each Suggestion Includes: Placement (lesson, PDF, bonus, email, video) + Example wording

10. Example Output
Niche: E-commerce
Audience: E-commerce store owners
Course A: AI-Driven Customer Support
Course B: Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce
Offer Type: Self-paced online course
Tone/Style: Educational and supportive
Pain Points: Technical overwhelm, low tech adoption
Aspirations: Streamlined operations, increased sales

Overview: This prompt generates five natural mentions of Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce within AI-Driven Customer Support, positioning it as a deeper dive for e-commerce store owners to address technical overwhelm and achieve streamlined operations.

- Placement: Lesson Wrap-Up
  Example: “You’ve learned AI support basics; for deeper insights into customer behavior, Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce explores data-driven strategies.”
- Placement: Resource PDF
  Example: “Want to optimize further? Check out Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce for advanced data tools.”
- Placement: Bonus Video
  Example: “This covers AI support setup; Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce dives into using AI for sales growth.”
- Placement: Completion Email
  Example: “Congrats on finishing! Many graduates continue with Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce to boost sales.”
- Placement: Module Transition
  Example: “Next, we cover support flows; Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce shows how to analyze these for revenue.”

Visual Suggestion: Canva course roadmap diagram showing Course A to Course B progression.
Tracking Metrics: Monitor Course B click-through rates and enrollment rates via Thinkific analytics.

11. Workflow Link
Fits into Sales Funnel Post-Purchase Workflow:
- Integrate mentions during [Course A] delivery → Use this prompt to embed Course B references.
- Feed details into “Sales Page Draft” prompt for Course B landing page.
- Pair with “Natural Cross-Sell Email” prompt for post-completion follow-up.
Pairs with:
- Generate Sales Page Copy Prompts (position Course B).
- Generate Email Sequence Prompts (extend cross-sell).

12. Optional Enhancements
- Include a sample Course B teaser module link in resources.
- Add a student testimonial about progressing to Course B.
- Suggest a “Next Steps” PDF with Course B details.
- Offer a feedback survey to gauge mention effectiveness.

13. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using salesy language, alienating [audience].
- Overloading [Course A] with Course B mentions.
- Ignoring [pain points] or [aspirations], reducing relevance.
- Making mentions feel disconnected from [Course A] content.

14. Additional Premium Enhancements
- Customization Options:
  - Users can specify [pain points], [aspirations], or [tone/style].
  - Adjust for [audience] segments (e.g., small vs. enterprise stores).
  - Tailor for [offer type] variations (e.g., group program).
- Advanced Variations:
  - Variation 1: Focus on beginner-friendly mentions for early lessons.
  - Variation 2: Emphasize advanced mentions for later modules.
  - Variation 3: Include community access as part of Course B mentions.
- Visual/Structural Guides:
  - Suggest a Canva course roadmap diagram for visual progression.
  - Include a content integration flowchart for Course B mentions.

15. Review and Refinement Criteria
After completing the output, review for:
- Relevance: Do mentions address [pain points] and [aspirations]?
- Subtlety: Are mentions non-salesy and student-focused?
- Clarity: Is wording clear and aligned with [tone/style]?
- Integration: Do mentions fit naturally into [Course A] delivery?
- Impact: Do [tracking metrics] align with cross-sell goals?
Refine to ensure mentions are professional, actionable, and student-centric.

16. Implementation Guide
Integrate mentions into [Course A] lessons, resources, or emails via [delivery platform, e.g., Thinkific]. Track [tracking metrics] to measure engagement and Course B conversions. Adjust based on student feedback.

17. Final Notes
This prompt delivers five natural, student-focused mentions of [Course B] within [Course A], guiding [audience] in [niche] toward continued growth without aggressive sales tactics.

Indications of Use – Related Content Hooks Prompt

Placeholders Explained

• [Course A] → The course your audience is currently taking. Example: “AI-Driven Customer Support.”

• [Course B] → The follow-up course to introduce naturally. Example: “Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce.”

• [audience] → The learners you’re targeting. Example: “E-commerce store owners.”

• [niche] → The broader market category. Example: “E-commerce.”

• [offer type] → Format of your content. Example: “Self-paced online course.”

• [tone/style] → How the mentions should feel. Example: “Educational and supportive.”

• [pain points] → Challenges the audience faces. Example: “Technical overwhelm.”

• [aspirations] → Goals your audience wants to achieve. Example: “Increased sales.”

Notes on Customization

• Must Change Every Time:

  • [Course A], [Course B], [audience], [niche], [offer type] → ensures relevance and natural integration.

• Optional Improvements:

  • Adjust [tone/style] to match your brand voice.

  • Include specific [pain points] or [aspirations] from surveys or feedback for stronger resonance.

  • Add links to teaser modules, bonus resources, or testimonials for Course B.

  • Use visuals like a course roadmap or integration flowchart to guide learners visually.

Example Output:

Prompt 3: Timing Guide for Offers

Purpose: To create a strategic timing guide for introducing a follow-up AI-driven course to e-commerce store owners enrolled in an initial course, ensuring a natural, student-focused progression that maximizes enrollment without aggressive sales tactics.

Title: Timing Guide for Introducing [Course B] to Students of [Course A] in AI-Driven E-Commerce.

Refined AI Prompt Template – Timing Guide for Offers

1. Title
Timing Guide: When & How to Introduce [Course B] to Students of [Course A]

2. Purpose
Strategically plan the optimal timing and touchpoints for introducing [Course B] to [audience] in [niche] during or after [Course A], maximizing natural progression and enrollment in a supportive manner.

3. Funnel Stage Tags
Sales → Post-Purchase → Cross-Sell Sequencing

4. Role
You are an expert in student lifecycle marketing, course engagement strategy, and funnel optimization, specializing in timing cross-sell introductions for [offer type] in [niche].

5. Context (1-Line Use Case)
Use this to map out when and how to introduce [Course B] to [audience] taking [Course A], positioning it as a natural next step in their learning journey.

6. Input Variables
- [niche] → e.g., e-commerce
- [audience] → e.g., e-commerce store owners
- [Course A] → e.g., AI-Driven Customer Support
- [Course B] → e.g., Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce
- [offer type] → e.g., self-paced online course
- [tone/style] → e.g., supportive and professional
- [pain points] → e.g., technical overwhelm, low tech adoption
- [aspirations] → e.g., streamlined operations, increased sales

7. Instructions to AI
Outline a step-by-step timing guide for introducing [Course B] to [audience] enrolled in [Course A] in [niche]. Include:
- In-course mentions (when and how to reference [Course B] during lessons).
- Email timing (mid-course, completion, follow-ups).
- Follow-up strategy (discounts, testimonials, nurture content).
Ensure the guide is chronological, includes 5–7 touchpoints, aligns with [pain points] and [aspirations], and uses [tone/style] to feel supportive and student-focused.

8. Constraints
- Present touchpoints in chronological order.
- Keep each touchpoint clear, actionable, and 1–2 sentences.
- Maintain a non-pushy, supportive [tone/style].
- Limit to 5–7 key touchpoints.
- Avoid aggressive sales language; focus on student growth.

9. Output Format
Type: Step-by-step timing roadmap
Format: Numbered list (5–7 touchpoints)
Each Touchpoint Includes: Channel (email, in-course, follow-up) + Example wording

10. Example Output
Niche: E-commerce
Audience: E-commerce store owners
Course A: AI-Driven Customer Support
Course B: Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce
Offer Type: Self-paced online course
Tone/Style: Supportive and professional
Pain Points: Technical overwhelm, low tech adoption
Aspirations: Streamlined operations, increased sales

Overview: This prompt generates a timing guide for introducing Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce to e-commerce store owners taking AI-Driven Customer Support, addressing technical overwhelm and promoting streamlined operations through a supportive, non-pushy approach.

1. Channel: Early-Course Email (Week 1)
   Example: “You’re diving into AI support! Want to explore how AI can boost sales? Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce is the next step.”
2. Channel: In-Course Lesson Transition (Mid-Course)
   Example: “This module covers AI support basics; Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce dives deeper into data-driven sales strategies.”
3. Channel: Resource PDF (Mid-Course)
   Example: “For advanced AI insights to grow revenue, check out Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce.”
4. Channel: Completion Email (Post-Course)
   Example: “Congrats on finishing! Take your skills further with Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce to optimize sales.”
5. Channel: Certificate Delivery (Post-Course)
   Example: “You’ve earned your certificate! Many graduates continue with Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce for deeper insights.”
6. Channel: 1-Week Post-Completion Email
   Example: “Hear how graduates used Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce to boost sales. Ready to join them?”
7. Channel: 2-Week Follow-Up Email
   Example: “Last chance for your graduate discount on Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce to streamline your operations.”

Visual Suggestion: Canva timeline infographic showing touchpoints from Course A to Course B.
Tracking Metrics: Monitor email open rates, click-through rates, and Course B enrollment rates via Thinkific analytics.

11. Workflow Link
Fits into Sales Funnel Post-Purchase Workflow:
- Integrate during [Course A] delivery → Use this prompt for timing touchpoints.
- Feed details into “Sales Page Draft” prompt for Course B landing page.
- Pair with “Natural Cross-Sell Email” prompt for post-completion emails.
Pairs with:
- Generate Sales Page Copy Prompts (position Course B).
- Generate Email Sequence Prompts (extend cross-sell campaign).

12. Optional Enhancements
- Include a limited-time discount for Course B (e.g., 15% off for 7 days).
- Add a Course B teaser video link in resources.
- Suggest a student success story for follow-up emails.
- Offer a feedback survey to optimize touchpoint effectiveness.

13. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using aggressive sales tactics, alienating [audience].
- Overloading [Course A] with Course B mentions.
- Ignoring [pain points] or [aspirations], reducing relevance.
- Placing touchpoints illogically (e.g., too early or late).

14. Additional Premium Enhancements
- Customization Options:
  - Users can specify [pain points], [aspirations], or [tone/style].
  - Adjust for [audience] segments (e.g., small vs. enterprise stores).
  - Tailor for [offer type] variations (e.g., group program).
- Advanced Variations:
  - Variation 1: Focus on beginner-friendly touchpoints early in Course A.
  - Variation 2: Emphasize advanced touchpoints for later modules.
  - Variation 3: Include community access mentions with Course B.
- Visual/Structural Guides:
  - Suggest a Canva timeline infographic for touchpoint sequencing.
  - Include a funnel diagram for Course A-to-Course B progression.

15. Review and Refinement Criteria
After completing the output, review for:
- Relevance: Do touchpoints address [pain points] and [aspirations]?
- Tone: Is the approach supportive and aligned with [tone/style]?
- Clarity: Are touchpoints actionable and clear?
- Chronology: Are touchpoints logically sequenced?
- Impact: Do [tracking metrics] align with cross-sell goals?
Refine to ensure the guide is professional, actionable, and student-centric.

16. Implementation Guide
Integrate touchpoints into [Course A] lessons, emails, and follow-ups via [delivery platform, e.g., Thinkific]. Track [tracking metrics] to measure engagement and Course B conversions. Adjust based on student feedback and analytics.

17. Final Notes
This prompt delivers a strategic, student-focused timing guide for introducing [Course B] to [audience] in [niche] during [Course A], ensuring a natural progression toward enrollment.

Indications of Use – Timing Guide for Offers Prompt

Placeholders Explained

• [Course A] → The initial course the audience is enrolled in. Example: “AI-Driven Customer Support.”

• [Course B] → The follow-up course to introduce. Example: “Advanced AI Analytics for E-Commerce.”

• [audience] → The learners you are targeting. Example: “E-commerce store owners.”

• [niche] → The broader market or sector. Example: “E-commerce.”

• [offer type] → Format of your course. Example: “Self-paced online course.”

• [tone/style] → How the timing guide should feel. Example: “Supportive and professional.”

• [pain points] → Key challenges your audience faces. Example: “Technical overwhelm.”

• [aspirations] → Goals your audience wants to achieve. Example: “Streamlined operations.”

Notes on Customization

• Must Change Every Time:

  • [Course A], [Course B], [audience], [niche], [offer type] → these ensure relevance and proper sequencing.

• Optional Improvements:

  • Refine [tone/style] to match your brand voice.

  • Include specific [pain points] or [aspirations] from learner feedback.

  • Add teaser links, student success stories, or limited-time offers to increase conversions.

  • Use visuals like a timeline infographic or funnel diagram to show the touchpoint sequence.

Example Output:

Mini Review: Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Keeps students on a clear learning path.

• Boosts lifetime value without extra marketing spend.

• Builds trust when framed as progress, not a pitch.

Cons:

• Bad timing can feel pushy.

• Requires careful alignment between courses.

Verdict: Done right, cross-selling doesn’t feel like selling at all—it feels like guidance.

Top 5 Industry News Bites

• Kajabi adds “post-course upsell pages” – seamless next steps built in.

• Thinkific tests automated bundles – pair courses without manual setup.

• Teachable launches in-course product mentions – subtle but effective.

• Circle adds community-based upsell reminders – selling through discussion.

• ConvertKit debuts smart sequences – tailor follow-ups to student behavior.

Takeaways and Best Uses

• Tip 1: Use supportive, non-pushy completion emails.

• Tip 2: Sprinkle cross-sell mentions inside Course A as natural “next steps.”

• Tip 3: Time offers around key milestones: mid-course, completion, +1 week.

Until next time, keep guiding your students forward,

— Valentine.
Morphoices | The solopreneur’s favorite AI course creation companion.

P. S. — One of my favorite parts of this work is hearing how readers like you use these ideas. What’s one change you’ve made because of a Deep Dive?