How to Handle Curveballs in a Live Launch (Without Panicking)

You’ve mapped your strategy. You’ve got the emails scheduled. You’re ready to go for your live launch!

But then… something doesn’t go as planned.

Welcome to live launching.

Whether it’s your very first launch or your fifteenth, curveballs will happen – and they don’t mean you failed. In fact, they’re one of the most common parts of the launch experience (especially if you’re running a webinar or live event)!

We’re breaking down the most common curveballs that pop up during live launches—and what to do when they hit…

Common Launch Curveballs (And Why They Happen More Than You Think)

After supporting over 70+ live launches, we’ve seen a few patterns—and curveballs are practically guaranteed. Here are the most common:

• Low webinar signups or attendance
  Even with a great offer and email sequence, sometimes people don’t register or show up. It happens.

• Tech glitches
  Checkouts crashing, Zaps not firing, webinar software acting up… launch tech is a beast. But the good news? Most issues can be solved quickly!

• Lower-than-normal email open rates
  This is often more of a feeling than a real issue. Launch emails typically see drops mid-week—it doesn’t mean your list isn’t interested.

• Feeling ghosted by your audience
  Crickets? It’s the worst. But sometimes, your people are watching quietly—and ready to buy later.

• Personal disruptions
  From sick kids to last-minute travel, life doesn’t pause for a launch. Planning margin into your schedule is key.
  

What to Do When a Launch Curveball Hits

First of all? Breathe! ‍

Then try these steps:

✅ Assess what’s actually broken
Is it a tech issue you can fix? Or just an emotional low point? Separate facts from feelings so you know where to focus.

✅ Communicate with your team
Let your integrator, OBM, or VA know what’s happening so you can divide and conquer.

✅ Make small pivots, not full U-turns
Resend to unopens. Add a bonus. Extend the cart. Tweak your emails. Small shifts can still drive big results.

✅ Decide if you want to pause
Sometimes, walking away and relaunching later is the bravest, smartest move. (Yes, you’re allowed.)

✅ Give yourself permission
You’re the CEO. That means you can change the plan. Don’t forget that.

How to Avoid Launch Curveballs (As Much As Possible)

You can’t prevent every mishap—but here’s what helps:

✨ Build in margin. Don’t plan a webinar the same day as a big family event. Add buffer days wherever you can!
✨ Prep content in advance. Write those emails early—don’t try to draft while your cart is open.
✨ Triple-check your tech. Run through the full buyer journey like you’re a customer!
✨ Assign backup roles. If you’ve got a team, make sure everyone knows their part (and their Plan B).

Curveballs don’t mean your launch is broken. They just mean you’re in it!

And sometimes, the most unexpected moments lead to the biggest breakthroughs—new clarity, new offers, or better systems!

So here’s your reminder:
You’re allowed to pivot.
You’re equipped to handle this.
You’re not alone.

Planning a live launch and want a team that’s ready for curveballs?
Click here to apply to work with the KSA team!