Representatives of civil society organisations regularly participate in press conferences, panel discussions, educational and informational events, and also work with video formats or join online sessions as speakers. Clear and confident communication helps them explain their work clearly and consistently maintain their positioning.

If you want to feel confident during a speech or interview, it is important to be aware of several simple tools. During a training session for participants of the Institutional Development Programme held as part of the “Phoenix: The Power of Communities” project, Ulyana Kolodii — a communications expert with over ten years of professional experience and seven years of journalistic practice—outlined these tools.

Prepare your appearance in advance

A public speech begins long before a person steps on stage or picks up a microphone. This pertains not only to content preparation but also to physical condition and a confident mindset.
It is important to:

• avoid alcohol and excessive water intake the day before the event, as this may cause swelling and affect your on-camera appearance;
• reduce intensive physical workouts to prevent looking tired or worn out;
• be cautious with cosmetic procedures: avoid trying new products you are unsure of, as they may cause allergic reactions or irritation;
• plan your outfit in advance: opt for dense fabrics without shine, logos, or large prints—these look better under studio lighting;
• check how the fabric behaves under different lighting conditions: stand, sit, move your arms to ensure the clothing is not see-through and does not create unflattering creases;
• choose restrained accessories—one or two accent pieces are enough to avoid distracting from the content of your speech.

Prepare your speech
Content preparation is essential. Gather key figures in advance, prepare the examples you intend to use, and clearly define your main messages. This will help you stay focused even if you feel nervous.

Before the event, it is useful to create a brief message box—concise statements that will keep you centred on the essence of the conversation.
A few short anchor phrases on a single page help maintain the structure of your speech.

Present information clearly and accessibly
When it comes to delivery style, remember that public speaking is not about showcasing complex constructions. Simple, specific, and comprehensible formulations are the most effective. Real-life examples, short stories, and comparisons help the audience follow your narrative with ease.

Use figures effectively
Numbers matter, but they should be used wisely. Up-to-date amounts, percentages, or performance results make your message more persuasive and transparent, yet the audience should not be overloaded with data. One or two key indicators are perceived best, especially when presented through simple and illustrative comparisons.

Always rehearse your speech
The importance of rehearsal should not be underestimated. Even if you know the material well, have clear talking points, and have selected an appropriate outfit, it is useful to dedicate 30–60 minutes to practising in front of a mirror or recording yourself on a phone. This helps identify areas for improvement and boosts confidence before speaking to a live audience or camera.

Public speaking is a skill that can be developed. Preparation, attention to detail, and regular practice not only help overcome anxiety but also make your messages clearer and more compelling for those who hear them.

The training for participants of the Institutional Development Programme was conducted within the “Phoenix: The Power of Communities” project, implemented by East Europe Foundation with support from the European Union.