Why You Don’t Need to Be an Extrovert to Succeed at Public Speaking in Liverpool

In a City That Values Real Talk, Quiet Confidence Goes Far in Public Speaking

Liverpool is known for its strong voices, quick wit, and straight-talking spirit. But that doesn’t mean you need to be loud or extroverted to succeed as a public speaker here. In fact, many of the most effective communicators in Liverpool—whether in business, education, healthcare, or the creative industries—speak with calm authority, not bravado.

There’s a common belief that great speakers are naturally outgoing. But that myth holds a lot of people back. If you’re more reflective than talkative, more thoughtful than showy, you may already have what it takes to be an excellent speaker—you just need to bring it forward.

A Relatable Case: The Reluctant Professional

Imagine Lisa, a senior NHS manager based in Liverpool. She’s diligent, perceptive, and knows her service inside out. Her reports are praised and her colleagues trust her judgement. But when asked to give a five-minute presentation to the leadership team, she hesitated.

"I’m not like those confident types," she told herself. "I just don’t have that spark."

What Lisa didn’t realise is that she didn’t need to be anyone else. She needed to communicate as herself—with clarity, confidence, and authenticity. And after a few focused coaching sessions, that’s exactly what she did.

What Really Matters in a City Like Liverpool

Liverpudlians value directness, sincerity, and warmth. It’s a city where audiences can spot fakery a mile off, and where authenticity is not just appreciated but expected. Introverts are often well-suited to this environment because they tend to bring:

• Preparation and depth: They think before they speak, and they choose their words carefully.

• Authenticity: They’re unlikely to perform or posture, which makes them trustworthy.

• Emotional intelligence: They often read the room well and speak with empathy.

  
  

What Holds Introverts Back—and What to Do About It

1. Fear of Being the Centre of Attention

Public speaking anxiety can be intense. But you don’t have to eliminate fear—you just need to manage it.

Try this:

• Controlled breathing: Use a simple breathing pattern to calm nerves (inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 6).

• Venue walk-through: Visit the space beforehand, if possible, or visualise yourself there.

• Start small: Practise with a trusted friend or record yourself on your phone.

2. Negative Self-Talk

Thoughts like "I’m too quiet" or "I’m not interesting" often get in the way of progress.

Shift the story:

• Confidence doesn’t mean being the loudest. It means being clear and credible.

• Focus on what your audience needs, not on your own nerves. Speak to help, not to impress.

3. Belief That ‘Engagement’ Means Being Entertaining

In a city with such a strong tradition of humour and storytelling, introverts can feel pressure to be something they’re not.

But consider this:

• Engagement doesn’t mean cracking jokes. It means being present, relatable, and well-prepared.

• People in Liverpool appreciate sincerity. A story told quietly but with conviction often lands better than one shouted with bravado.

Skills You Can Build Right Now

Voice and Vocal Delivery

Speaking softly isn’t a weakness, but your voice still needs shape and energy.

Exercises:

• Record yourself reading your talk and listen for monotone delivery.

• Practise stressing keywords, adding pauses, and changing pace.

Body Language

You don’t need dramatic gestures, but you do need presence.

Try this:

• Stand with your feet grounded and shoulders relaxed.

• Use open gestures that match your words.

• Make eye contact with different people in the room.

Structuring Your Talk

A well-organised talk gives you confidence and helps the audience stay with you.

Tips:

• Start with a clear purpose: Why should your audience care?

• Use the Rule of Three: Three key points are easier to deliver and easier to remember.

• End with a strong conclusion and a call to action, if relevant.

Why Introverts Can Thrive in Liverpool

You don’t have to be loud to be heard in Liverpool. In fact, being grounded and relatable will often win you more respect. Think of people like:

• Kim Johnson MP, who speaks with clarity and community focus.

• Nisha Katona, restaurateur and presenter, whose calm confidence has built a national brand.

• Jodie Comer, internationally acclaimed actor known for nuance and emotional range.

Each of these figures communicates with integrity and control. They’re proof that performance doesn’t always mean projection.

Why Personalised Coaching Makes the Difference

As a communication coach working with clients in Liverpool and across the UK, I understand how to help professionals who don’t see themselves as natural speakers.

What coaching gives you:

• A private space to build skills without pressure.

• Feedback tailored to your strengths and communication style.

• Real progress in a short time—ready for that pitch, panel, or presentation.

Whether you're delivering at a business school event, pitching for funding, or speaking up in team meetings, you can learn to do it with ease.

Ready to Start Speaking with Confidence?

You don’t have to change who you are to succeed at public speaking in Liverpool. You just need to develop a toolkit that works for you.

If you’re ready to build confidence, improve your presentation skills, and learn how to engage audiences in a way that feels genuine, get in touch today. My communication coaching is designed to help you become the speaker your message deserves.

Because in Liverpool, it’s not about putting on a show. It’s about being real. And that’s where introverts shine.