The goal is to remain poised, while using reason to persuade, without casting blame. The ability to speak to others is largely a consequence of personality. However, with proper guidance, motivation and effort, it is possible to make significant improvement in that area. Keeping abreast of current events by reading the newspaper on a daily basis, is just one way to immediately impact your knowledge base and improve speaking skills. Learning techniques for initiating and sustaining conversation and practicing in controlled and uncontrolled settings are others.
Confidence increases with practice and ultimately anxiety diminishes.
In preparation for a press conference, the President of the United States responds to questions he is likely to receive. You should do the same before each interview. List the questions you are most likely to face and have someone drill you. As always, keep responses brief and use vivid personal examples. Instead of saying you like to work with numbers, talk about a specific project you worked on.