Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe Collaborating with Someone from a Different Background

Working with people from diverse backgrounds is increasingly common in today’s globalized world. This topic often appears in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2 and Part 3. Being able to articulate your experiences and thoughts on this subject can significantly boost your score. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

While this specific topic is unlikely to appear in Part 1, you may encounter related questions about work, colleagues, or cultural experiences. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:

Examiner: Do you enjoy working with people from different backgrounds?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely! I find it incredibly enriching to collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds. It not only broadens my perspective but also enhances my problem-solving skills. I’ve had the opportunity to work with colleagues from various countries, and each experience has taught me something new about different cultures and ways of thinking.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe a time when you had to work with someone from a different background
You should say:

• Who this person was
• What you were working on together
• How your backgrounds differed
• And explain how this experience affected your work

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about a memorable experience I had while working on a cross-cultural marketing project for a multinational company. The person I collaborated with was Akira, a Japanese colleague who had recently joined our team in London.

Our task was to develop a marketing strategy for launching a new product line in both European and Asian markets. This was where our differing backgrounds came into play significantly. I’m British, raised in a Western culture, while Akira brought with him a wealth of knowledge about Eastern markets and consumer behavior.

The contrast in our backgrounds was evident in various aspects. Firstly, our communication styles differed dramatically. I was more direct and forthright in expressing ideas, while Akira tended to be more subtle and implicit. Additionally, our approaches to decision-making varied; I favored quick, decisive actions, whereas Akira preferred a more consensus-based approach, involving multiple stakeholders.

Diverse Team Collaboration

This experience had a profound impact on our work. Initially, these differences led to some misunderstandings and minor conflicts. However, as we learned to appreciate and leverage our diverse perspectives, the quality of our work improved substantially. We were able to create a truly global marketing strategy that resonated with both Western and Eastern audiences.

The experience taught me the immense value of diversity in teamwork. It broadened my understanding of global markets and made me more adaptable in my communication style. Most importantly, it highlighted how combining different viewpoints can lead to more innovative and comprehensive solutions.

In retrospect, working with Akira was not just about completing a project; it was a journey of personal and professional growth. It reinforced my belief in the power of diversity in the workplace and has since influenced my approach to international collaborations.”

Examiner: How did you overcome the initial challenges in working together?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“To overcome our initial challenges, we adopted a proactive approach. We scheduled regular feedback sessions to discuss our working styles and any misunderstandings. I made a conscious effort to be more patient and attentive to non-verbal cues, while Akira worked on being more explicit in his communication. We also implemented a system of written summaries after each meeting to ensure we were on the same page. This process of mutual adaptation not only improved our working relationship but also enhanced the overall quality of our project outcomes.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: In what ways can cultural differences impact workplace communication?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Cultural differences can significantly impact workplace communication in several ways. Firstly, non-verbal communication varies greatly across cultures. For instance, maintaining eye contact might be seen as respectful in some cultures but confrontational in others. Secondly, the level of directness in communication can differ. Some cultures value straightforward communication, while others prefer a more indirect approach to avoid conflict. Lastly, the concept of time and deadlines can vary, affecting project management and workflow. Understanding and adapting to these differences is crucial for effective cross-cultural communication in the workplace.”

Examiner: How can companies benefit from having a diverse workforce?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Companies can reap numerous benefits from fostering a diverse workforce. Primarily, diversity brings a wealth of perspectives and ideas, which is crucial for innovation and problem-solving. Different cultural backgrounds often mean different approaches to challenges, leading to more creative and comprehensive solutions. Additionally, a diverse team can help companies better understand and penetrate global markets. Employees from various backgrounds can provide invaluable insights into different consumer behaviors and preferences. Moreover, diversity promotes a more inclusive work environment, which can boost employee morale and productivity. It also enhances the company’s reputation, making it more attractive to top talent and potentially to a broader customer base. In essence, diversity is not just a moral imperative but a significant competitive advantage in today’s globalized business landscape.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To elevate your IELTS Speaking score, incorporate these sophisticated words and phrases:

1. Cross-cultural /krɒs ˈkʌltʃərəl/ (adjective): Relating to different cultures or comparing them.
   Example: “The project required cross-cultural understanding to succeed.”
2. Diverse perspectives /daɪˈvɜːs pəˈspektɪvz/ (noun phrase): Different viewpoints or ways of thinking.
   Example: “Our team’s diverse perspectives led to innovative solutions.”
3. Leverage /ˈliːvərɪdʒ/ (verb): Use something to maximum advantage.
   Example: “We leveraged our cultural differences to create a unique marketing strategy.”
4. Adaptability /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/ (noun): The quality of being able to adjust to new conditions.
   Example: “Working in a multicultural team improved my adaptability.”
5. Implicit /ɪmˈplɪsɪt/ (adjective): Implied though not plainly expressed.
   Example: “In some cultures, communication tends to be more implicit.”
6. Consensus-based /kənˈsensəs beɪst/ (adjective): Based on general agreement.
   Example: “Japanese business culture often favors a consensus-based approach to decision-making.”

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in describing experiences with people from different backgrounds in your IELTS Speaking test:

1. Provide specific examples: Instead of general statements, offer concrete instances that illustrate your points.
2. Use sophisticated vocabulary: Incorporate advanced terms related to culture, communication, and diversity.
3. Demonstrate cultural awareness: Show understanding of different cultural norms and how they impact interactions.
4. Highlight personal growth: Explain how these experiences have broadened your perspective or improved your skills.
5. Practice balanced responses: When discussing challenges, also mention positive outcomes and learning experiences.
6. Develop your ideas: Don’t just state facts; explain your thoughts and feelings about the experience in depth.
7. Use appropriate tenses: Ensure you use past tenses correctly when describing past experiences.

Remember, the key to a high score is not just in what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.

Celebrating Success Together

“Describe a time when you worked with a team” can provide additional insights into collaborative experiences, which often involve diverse backgrounds. Similarly, “describe a time when you helped someone with an important task” might involve cross-cultural interactions, further enhancing your ability to discuss diverse collaborations effectively.