Can I refuse to do presentations?

Is Public Speaking Essential?

Ask yourself: Is this the main point of the job?

• Sales/Trainer: Yes. Refusing presentations probably means you can’t do the job.
• Accountant/Admin: No. It’s likely an occasional task.

Adjustments for Anxiety

Instead of “I won’t do it”, try:

1. Pre-recording: “Can I record my update as a video and play it in the meeting?”
2. Co-presenting: “Can I prepare the slides and a colleague presents them?”
3. Small Groups: “Can I brief the stakeholders 1-on-1 instead of a town hall?"

"Social Anxiety” as a Disability

Severe social anxiety can be a disability. Employers should look for ways to communicate your data without forcing you into a panic-inducing spotlight unless the spotlight IS the job.