If you're trying to use your phone's microphone, chances are it's through an app. Usually, when you first open an app that requires access to the microphone, you're asked if you want to grant access to your microphone. If you have problems with being heard through an app, you can always go into the iPhone microphone settings and allow access.
You enable microphone access in the iPhone Settings app. On your phone, go to Settings, then Privacy, and choose Microphone. Find the app you want to grant access and toggle the switch to the right. The switch turns green when the mic is enabled for an app. When it's turned off, it is gray.