“Nothing can dim the light that shines from within.” - Maya Angelou

When we talk about press coverage and being visible, we usually imagine outgoing people who love being in the spotlight. You know, the ones who can work a room effortlessly and always seem comfortable in front of a camera. But guess what? Publicity isn’t just for extroverts. In fact, introverts—those who prefer quiet moments and deep conversations—can excel at getting press coverage too. Don’t believe me?  Let’s explore why introverts are built for doing their own media outreach and how you can use your unique strengths to shine in the world of visibility and influence.

First, let’s look at the qualities of Introverts and why these can be useful in terms of getting visibility.  Introverts are individuals who feel more comfortable in quieter, less stimulating environments so one-to-one interactions work perfectly for them. In addition, because of their ability to think deeply about topics, and do thorough research, they often contribute valuable insights to discussions - and this is where the gold is when it comes to doing your own PR.

So how do your introverted personality traits help you land publicity?

Active Listening

As an introvert, you pay attention to details and tend to understand others’ viewpoints. By using your active listening skills and truly grasping what others are saying, you can ace interviews!  For example, when doing podcasts or speaking to a journalist, you’ll be able to answer their questions meaningfully and give them valuable answers which will create better interview results.  

Thoughtfulness

Introverts tend to think deeply before speaking or acting. Because you analyse situations and consider multiple perspectives, you’ll be able to craft well-researched pitches, press releases, and messages. You’re also primed to be a thought leader because of your ability to think deeply about your industry and offer insights on trends and issues for example.

Building Genuine Relationships

Introverts thrive in one-on-one or small group interactions. This strength allows you to build authentic relationships with journalists, podcast hosts and other industry influencers and contacts.  These relationships help you stand out in a journalist’s overcrowded inbox and contributes to being used time and time again when they need an expert in your industry.

Perfect PR Tactics for Introverts

Here are a few strategic moves you can use in the game of getting visible that will play to your strengths as an introvert:

1. Crafting Thoughtful pitches via email

Instead of firing off generic, mass emails, take the time to research and tailor your messages to journalists, podcast hosts and influencers. By delving into the recipient’s work, interests, and preferences, you can create personalised pitches that grab the journalists attention. This thoughtful approach significantly increases the chances of getting noticed because you quickly show you know who they are, what they cover and therefore what you’re proposing is going to be relevant to their audience. So, ditch the cookie-cutter emails and outline why your story matters to their audience—it’s a winning strategy!  I'd also recommend focusing on smaller podcasts to start with while you build your confidence and interview answers.

2. Writing Content

Introverts tend to have a natural affinity for writing and you can use this to your advantage by crafting compelling blog posts, guest contributions, press releases, and thought leadership pieces. Written content is a powerful tool in PR. It allows you to convey your message clearly, build credibility, and engage your audience. So, embrace your love for words—you’re wielding a potent weapon!

3. Networking at Industry Events: Quality over Quantity

When it comes to networking at industry events, introverts have a unique advantage: they can focus on quality interactions rather than trying to meet everyone in the room. Here are some tips for meaningful networking without feeling overwhelmed:

• Set Realistic Goals: Instead of aiming to meet dozens of people, set achievable goals. Maybe it’s having a meaningful conversation with three new contacts. Quality connections matter more than quantity.

• Prepare Ahead: Research the event and identify key individuals you’d like to connect with on the day. Ask the organisers if there is a group for the event for people to connect before hand (it might be on Facebook, Whatsapp or Telegram for example). If there is, get in it and introduce yourself and then comment on other people’s intro’s too. Having a game plan reduces anxiety and helps you approach relevant people confidently.

• One-on-One Conversations: Introverts thrive in one-on-one settings. Seek out quieter corners or approach someone after a talk. Meaningful conversations often happen away from the crowd.

• Listen Actively: Introverts excel at listening. Use this strength to your advantage. Ask open-ended questions, show genuine interest, and let the other person share their insights.

• Follow Up Thoughtfully: After the event, follow up with personalised messages. Reference your conversation and genuinely, and naturally, continue the conversation or move it to the next step which could be a zoom chat or working out how to collaborate or work together. Building on these connections over time is more valuable than collecting business cards.

4. Social Media Engagement

Social media engagement is great for introverts because it gives you a controlled environment where you can choose when and how to engage. It also allows you to connect with a wide audience while keeping a comfortable distance. It isn’t about being the loudest voice. It is about building meaningful connections—one thoughtful comment at a time.

There are a few ways you can show your stuff via social media especially when it comes to:

• Curating content: keep focused on quality and only share the most relevant and valuable posts with your audience.  Use it to position yourself as a knowledgeable source, providing value without needing to be the centre of attention.

• Responding to comments: Respond thoughtfully to comments, answer questions, and express gratitude. Unlike face-to-face conversations, online comments give you time to compose well-crafted responses. Just be natural and authentic!

Practical Tips for Overcoming Challenges

The best way to get better at being visible when you feel really uncomfortable, is to practice, including, and especially public speaking and networking. Like any skill, practice helps build confidence and familiarity.  Our brains adapt to what’s familiar so it is a fact that you will soon get more comfortable with doing it.

If you get nervous speaking to a journalist, or on a stage, start small and build up your confidence. Do a podcast or a Facebook live for a small group – yours or somebody else’s.  Do a few of these and you will build up confidence through normalising it and it will also give you evidence that you can probably do it quite well. This evidence can be used to calm yourself when you start feeling the nerves or fear.

I’d also recommend using techniques for managing anxiety, such as deep breathing exercises, visualization, or positive self-talk. Nervousness is normal, good even, and it can be managed.

When landing publicity and boosting your visibility, you have a wealth of natural strengths you can play to your full advantage to create meaningful and impactful connections and communications.  I always encourage my clients to do what works for them otherwise they won’t enjoy it, and that means they won’t put themselves out there as much as they should. And neither will you. So do what makes you feel comfortably stretched so you keep growing, but have fun with it!

Remember, introverts bring unique qualities to PR, and with the right strategies, you can shine in any crowded inbox.