'Mic fright' | Is WFH making young workers afraid of public speaking?

Public speaking is back on the workplace agenda, and younger generations are among some of the most anxious groups.

New research from tombola shows one in nine (11%) 18–24‑year‑olds now rank public speaking as their biggest fear – ahead of a trip to the dentist and needles (both 8%).

With work-from-home and hybrid routines now the new norm, many early-career professionals say they’re “rusty” in the board room just as 2026 kick-off meetings, appraisals, and planning sessions return.

Workplace nerves intensify as careers progress

Confidence does tend to build with experience, with the figure dropping to 6% for 25–34s but then the pressure ramps up again. It rises to 12% for 35–44s and 15% for 45–54s, before peaking at 19% for 55–64s – an age when people are more likely to lead teams, present to clients and boards, and carry bigger targets.