Free vs. Paid Webinars - Let’s Talk

At a recent networking event, someone asked, “What’s everyone’s take on free versus paid webinars?” It was a simple question, but it sparked a great conversation and honestly, it’s something I’ve been thinking about myself. And there doesn’t seem to be a blanket answer here. The right choice really depends on your goals, who you’re trying to reach, and where the webinar fits within the larger strategy of your business.

Some people shared that offering free webinars helped them build visibility and trust. Others said that charging even a small amount made people more engaged and committed to showing up. Everyone shared different experiences with different goals in mind.

So I’ve been thinking more about it and here are some ideas to work through it:

Free webinars can be a great way to:

• Get in front of new people

• Provide a sneak peek of how you work

• Build your email list

They’re a low-barrier to entry, accessible, and offer a chance to connect without pressure. However, they can also take a lot of time and energy, especially if you're constantly giving without a clear follow-up plan. So be mindful of that.

Paid webinars make sense when:

• You’re teaching something deeper or more results-driven

• You want to attract more engaged participants

• You’re positioning the session as a standalone workshop or low-ticket offer

Sometimes people just show up differently when they’ve invested in the experience. Again, there isn’t really a “right” choice here. It’s more about asking yourself:

• What’s the goal of this webinar?

• Is this a lead magnet to something else, or is this the thing?

• What’s going to feel most aligned with my energy and business right now?

So the next time you’re planning a webinar, don’t just default to what you’ve always done or what you’ve seen others do. Take a minute to check in: What’s the purpose? What’s the value? What’s the strategy behind it? When your choice is intentional, both free and paid options can work beautifully.