Accountants work mainly in an office setting where they gather and prepare financial information for a business. Duties usually include writing reports, budgets, cost projections, and financial statements. They may be involved in meetings and seminars, but the job does not entail speaking in front of large groups of people. Many employees in these positions may even work from the privacy of their home for all or part of their work day.
Nursing involves the care of patients, requiring a patient-caregiver relationship but no public speaking. Nurses consult with doctors and other specialists, may be in a supervisory position, and confer with patient families, but speaking in front of any large group would be a rare occurrence. Their main function is to assist physicians and care for patients at all levels.
The main duties of a librarian are the organization and research of reading and media materials. Although librarians have contact with many people and may also work in a supervisory capacity, these interactions are usually one-on-one or with very small groups. Duties include cataloging of materials, retrieving information for individuals or businesses from on-site sources or databases, researching new books and periodicals, and arranging library events for adults and children.
Biologists spend most of their time in a lab setting or in natural environments, studying and researching a variety of specimens. They often work independently on projects and may keep flexible hours. Speaking engagements are rare unless a biologist is involved in a high-profile endeavor. A biology major who does not want to speak in front of large groups would not pursue a teaching career.
Artists work mainly alone or, if they work for a company, with small groups of co-workers. Their position is usually a solitary one, as art requires focus and quiet surroundings. A successful artist who shows his work in galleries or art shows and festivals may be required to speak informally to small groups of people or individuals but rarely large groups. Art majors who do not wish to speak in public should veer away from positions with museums, as they sometimes require speaking to tour groups and art students.