I hate corporate events and hate volunteering for events.

Anonymous

October 20,2022 at 4:25AM UTC

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I hate corporate events and hate volunteering for events. Introvert for social events and extroverted towards clients. I tend to get anxiety attacks during corporate social events (even remote ones when I have to speak) and seems like employer doesn’t care when I communicate this…. it’s actually considered against my performance. Is that legal? Is okay to not be part of these corporate gatherings? Does anyone else feel the same ?

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AnonymousOctober 20,2022 at 1:29PM UTC
You are not alone in these feelings! I, personally, am the same way. It's difficult to put yourself out there as an introvert at company social events.
This FGB article may help: https://fairygodboss.com/articles/how-i-manage-my-social-anxiety-at-work
Jennifer ShoffnerNovember 1,2022 at 3:15PM UTC
I think its fine to not be an "events" person. However it isn't fine to hold that against you. A lot of people would rather fade into the background than attend these events. Sometimes corporate events are more tolerable when you have a "buddy". See if you can buddy up with someone at the next event who understands your situation and can "intervene" on our behalf to keep you from being put on the spot.
Kelsey GardipeeNovember 1,2022 at 3:22PM UTC
Is it part of your job description that you need to attend these events? I can't speak to whether or not it's legal. But, if it's part of your job description and you've expressed that you no longer want to attend them, I can understand that playing into your performance. Or if you're the only one on the team not wanting to participate, I can also see that being a factor. But if it's not part of your job description and these events aren't required, I feel that you're being unfairly punished. Is there someone else in HR or management that you can have a discussion with this about? Also, it wouldn't hurt to start documenting the communication with HR on this topic.
AnonymousNovember 1,2022 at 5:32PM UTC
Agree! If this is something that is negotiable and you're comfortable doing so, you could consider approaching it from a disability standpoint. Anxiety is a legitimate health condition; you should be eligible for reasonable accommodations.
AnonymousNovember 12,2022 at 7:45PM UTC
Response ? above
Shanita Taylor BSIS, BSc (Psyc), M.A.E.LNovember 11,2022 at 10:29PM UTC
Briefly, I can't say if it is legal or illegal. Although, you should perform to the expectations of the criteria set for the job/employment opportunity.
AnonymousNovember 12,2022 at 7:45PM UTC
Well they are not mandatory. I just don’t understand if someone during an interview stated that they have high anxiety around large crowds or while giving speeches why force this? It’s so horrible.
in response to your question above: it’s not part of the job description. Not part of performance criteria. Just part of a micromanagers way to to scrutinize.