A Creative Introvert’s Guide to Marketing (Without Burning Out) - Part 1

19 Dec

What is an introvert? Introverts tend to be deeply thoughtful, observant, thorough processors of information, and careful with words. Interaction with others can be profoundly draining and may lead to needing a few days with the door firmly shut to input. This describes me perfectly. I’m also drawn to, and tend to befriend, people with similar attributes. (This post describes how a creative introvert can still be a successful promoter and marketer. Part 2 will explore Recovering After In-Person Selling: A Gentle Reset for Introverted Creatives.)

Designer, illustrator, and founder of Make Nice, Ngaio Parr, explains it beautifully: “For introverts, interaction is physically and mentally exhausting rather than energising. That doesn’t mean introverts aren’t good at speaking to others or that they don’t enjoy it; just that it depletes their energy instead of boosting it.”

As a secure and creative introvert, the idea of promoting my work in person, with real people, makes me want to retreat into my shell (a little like WALL·E). In-person marketing feels loud, performative, and draining to me, while my husband, interestingly, is the complete opposite. I’ve read that introverts are uniquely positioned to be exceptionally good at marketing, which has been nice to learn. Below are a few key reflections for those of us who prefer working quietly and deeply, rather than running a stall for hours on end.

Introverts are natural thinkers I certainly am. When faced with a new challenge or social interaction, I think deeply and prepare carefully. I like to gather my thoughts, reflect, and then choose my words deliberately. This skill became essential when we lived in France and I spoke very little French. For the first two to three years, I would carefully plan what I wanted to say, run it through Google Translate, memorise a few key phrases, and give it a go. And sometimes it worked! (Other times I just smiled a lot and said I was from Nouvelle-Zélande. Then they would smile and then speak in English, inevitably talking about les All Blacks at some stage, and doing a few haka moves. A great icebreaker!)

The dark side: overthinking Of course, deep thinking can tip into chronic anticipatory anxiety. Paired with depression, this was my companion for far too long. These days, I try to focus only on what is within my control, a practice that doesn’t always come easily, but helps, along with deep breathing, spending time outside, and writing things down rather than worrying about them.

Introvert-friendly marketing As much as it doesn’t come naturally, social media, blogging, and email marketing are reasonable options for me. They allow time and space to prepare a message carefully and use a tone that feels authentic. I have a friend who loves marketing and promoting herself and her work, and she does it brilliantly. I’ve learned that my way simply looks different.

I don’t have to do/be everything Being a creative online is still new territory for me, and I’ve felt pressure to try every marketing option available. I’ve since realised I’m far better off doing a few things well. For example: I love watercolour painting = Watercolour Works; I love designing, hand-sewing, and working with felt, beads, thread, and colour = Fantastic Felt; and I love writing = Sara’s Stories. My daughter (and business partner) handles much of the online marketing and promotion, which is a gift and a practical solution for us both. In fact, I really have to know my limits. You’re unlikely to see me in videos or on podcasts, though I am preparing to run a few Fantastic Felt workshops in 2026. I have to focus on what aligns with my strengths and energy levels, otherwise I will crash with fatigue for several days afterwards. (Part 2 of this series will explore this in more detail.)

Does scheduling work for introverts? This may be controversial, but intentional scheduling doesn’t work for me. I need to assess my health and energy levels daily and work within those limits. For example, from early November I intended to visit local shops to promote my products. In reality, I didn’t manage this until just a few days ago, missing the Christmas sales flurry entirely. I knew this might happen, but my energy was simply too low to push through.

Great news: you don’t have to do it alone! In 2026, I’ll be releasing an exciting and beautiful new line of designs aimed at a key sector of our community. I want to show up to at least three fairs or markets in Auckland, and I’ve finally found a way that might make this possible. My plan is to bring a friend (or two!) along who enjoys talking to people and is comfortable with sales, make sure they understand my energy limits, including the need for breaks, fresh air, or even leaving early, and compensate them properly, whether with payment, trades, or thoughtful gifts. Amazingly, the very day I realised this was the key, a long-time close and darling friend offered – completely out of the blue – to do exactly this, with pleasure. Serendipity at its finest!

Effective marketing is possible for introverts. For me, the key is not forcing myself into loud strategies or rigid schedules that drain me but allowing myself to work in ways that respect my energy, temperament and health. If you’re looking for approaches that suit you, try searching “tips for introverts selling online” as there’s a wealth of thoughtful, practical guidance available.

How about you? Are you a creative introvert running a business? How do you manage those introversion tendencies? What are your super powers as an introvert? Share your stories in my comments or email me; I’d love to hear from you.

Best wishes, Sara x

If you’ve still got a few people to gift to for Christmas, visit my shop. You’ll find discounted bundles and popular favourites. My 2026 calendars have almost sold out though, so be quick! If you live in Auckland, message me, and you can collect from me.

P.S. Part 2 of this series will explore Recovering After In-Person Selling: A Gentle Reset for Introverted Creatives