Public speaking is a nightmare for many.
For many of us, the thought of having to give a speech or stand up in front of people is one of our biggest fears. Many would do anything to avoid the scenario if they could. If you get creative, there can be some funny and interesting ways of not having to give that big presentation you have been asked to create.
Fake an Illness
One symptom of laryngitis is that it becomes incredibly difficult or impossible to speak. "Conveniently" come down with a case of laryngitis the night before you are supposed to address that big crowd. Call your boss, supervisor or teacher and attempt to explain your illness, but make sure you they cannot understand what you are trying to say. Coughing, wheezing and struggling to make a sound are traditional tactics. If you have to come in, provide a note saying how you are sick, and demand to rest your voice.
Demand Payment
You and your voice are a resource, so making an expected appearance at this meeting or function should be worth something. Demand that your boss or the event coordinator pay you extra for your time. If you can present a good enough case as to why you should be paid, they may decide that you have a valid point. It is likely that they will not be interested in writing you a check, so you may get out of the gig.
Glossophobic
Glossophobia is the technical term for having a fear of public speaking. If you have a friend that is a doctor or works in the counseling/psychiatric field, they can suggest that giving this presentation may be bad for your heath (physical or mental) because of your fear. Your teacher or boss will have no choice but to let you out of the task.
Get a Body Double
If everyone still expects you to stand in front of that crowd, find a body double who is willing to fill in for you. Find someone who looks like you, and dress him so that no one will notice it is not you up there. If he is not sure what to say, you can give him a written outline of what you would have said if you were not so scared of standing in front of a crowd.
