Observed Signal · Sep 8, 2026 · Research Study · Source: https://martechseries.com/feed/ · Impact: 1/5 · Sentiment: Neutral

Workplace AI Market: Canva Study: 74% of Workers Anxious Presenting Despite AI

Executive Signal Summary

Canva's global study, 'The Presentation Paradox', reveals that while AI tools like Canva AI streamline presentation creation, 74% of professionals still experience anxiety when presenting. The study, based on a survey of over 20,000 workers, found that 91% use AI monthly to build slides, but 86% believe great presentations hinge on human connection. Gen Z workers are most affected, with 90% reporting anxiety. Despite AI's role in slide generation, 68% link strong presentation skills to career advancement, and 55% would allow an AI avatar to present on their behalf. The findings underscore a growing divide between AI-assisted creation and the enduring need for human presentation skills.

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High Confidence

The study provides insights into AI's impact on presentation skills but is not directly relevant to AdTech/MarTech operations or industry-shifting news.

Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding

  • 74% of professionals feel anxious about presenting, with 90% of Gen Z affected.
  • 91% of workers use AI to build or draft presentation slides each month.
  • 68% of respondents link strong presentation skills to a recent pay rise or promotion.
  • 53% currently use AI as a presentation coach.
  • 55% would let an AI avatar present for them.
Primary Source Grounding & Direct Attribution
Direct Origin Attribution
Primary Reporting: https://martechseries.com/feed/Published: Sep 8, 2026
Original Coverage Title: AI Can Design the Slides, But It Can’t Fix Stage Fright: 3 in 4 Workers Get Anxious Presenting, Canva Study Finds

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