When preparing for the IELTS Speaking test, candidates often encounter questions about cross-cultural experiences and collaborations. One common topic is describing a time when you worked with someone from a different background. This question allows examiners to assess your ability to communicate about diverse interactions and cultural awareness. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions related to cultural diversity and working with others. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Sample Question: Do you enjoy working with people from different cultures?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. It’s interesting to learn about different perspectives and ways of doing things. I’ve had some good experiences working with people from other countries in my studies.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I find it incredibly enriching to collaborate with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Not only does it broaden my perspective, but it also enhances my problem-solving skills as we often approach challenges from different angles. In my experience, such interactions have consistently led to more innovative outcomes and personal growth.

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

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

Describe A Time You Worked With Someone From A Different Background
You should say:

• Who this person was
• What you were working on together
• How their background was different from yours
• And explain how this experience affected your work or relationship

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

I’d like to talk about a memorable collaboration I had with a colleague named Akiko during an international marketing project at my previous job. Akiko was a Japanese exchange professional who joined our team in London for a six-month stint.

We were tasked with developing a marketing strategy for launching a new product line in both European and Asian markets. This project was particularly challenging and exciting because it required us to blend our diverse perspectives to create a truly global approach.

Akiko’s background differed significantly from mine in several aspects. Firstly, her cultural upbringing in Japan contrasted sharply with my Western European background. This was evident in our different communication styles – while I tended to be more direct, Akiko often used a more subtle, indirect approach. Additionally, her educational background in traditional Japanese marketing techniques provided a fascinating counterpoint to my more Western-centric digital marketing expertise.

This experience profoundly impacted both our work and our relationship. Initially, we faced some communication hurdles, particularly when it came to giving feedback or expressing disagreement. However, as we learned to appreciate and leverage our differences, we developed a highly effective synergy. Akiko’s attention to detail and focus on customer experience complemented my data-driven approach perfectly.

The project’s success was largely due to our ability to combine our unique strengths. We created a marketing strategy that resonated across cultures, incorporating elements that appealed to both European and Asian consumers. This experience taught me the immense value of diversity in the workplace and how it can lead to more comprehensive and innovative solutions.

Personally, this collaboration broadened my cultural horizons significantly. I gained insights into Japanese business etiquette and communication styles that have proved invaluable in my subsequent international dealings. Moreover, it fostered a deep friendship with Akiko that continues to this day, enriching both my personal and professional life.

In conclusion, this experience was a testament to the power of cross-cultural collaboration. It not only resulted in a successful project but also enhanced my cultural intelligence and appreciation for diverse perspectives in the workplace.

Follow-up Questions:

1. How did you overcome language barriers, if any?
2. What was the most surprising thing you learned about your colleague’s culture?
3. How has this experience changed your approach to working in diverse teams?

Cross-cultural team in brainstorming session

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Q: What are the main challenges of working in a culturally diverse team?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Working in a culturally diverse team can be challenging. Sometimes there are language barriers, which can make communication difficult. Different work styles and expectations can also lead to misunderstandings. It’s important to be patient and open-minded when working with people from different backgrounds.

Band 8-9 Answer:
The challenges of working in a culturally diverse team are multifaceted and complex. Foremost among these is the potential for miscommunication, which extends beyond mere language barriers to encompass differences in nonverbal cues, communication styles, and cultural contexts. For instance, what might be considered assertive in one culture could be perceived as aggressive in another.

Another significant challenge lies in reconciling divergent work ethics and business practices. Cultural variations in time management, decision-making processes, and hierarchy can lead to friction if not properly addressed. For example, some cultures prioritize consensus-building, while others value swift, top-down decision-making.

Moreover, there’s the challenge of overcoming unconscious biases and stereotypes that team members may harbor. These preconceptions can impede collaboration and hinder the full utilization of the team’s diverse talents and perspectives.

However, it’s crucial to note that these challenges, when effectively managed, can become powerful catalysts for innovation and growth. Successful diverse teams often develop enhanced problem-solving capabilities and demonstrate greater creativity by drawing upon a wider range of experiences and viewpoints.

Q: How can companies benefit from having a culturally diverse workforce?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Companies can benefit a lot from having a culturally diverse workforce. It brings different ideas and perspectives, which can lead to more creativity and innovation. It also helps companies understand and connect with customers from different backgrounds, which is important in today’s global market.

Band 8-9 Answer:
The benefits of a culturally diverse workforce for companies are numerous and profound. Primarily, diversity fosters innovation and creativity by bringing together a wide array of perspectives, experiences, and problem-solving approaches. This melting pot of ideas often leads to more robust solutions and innovative products that can give companies a competitive edge in the global marketplace.

Culturally diverse teams also enhance a company’s ability to navigate global markets. Employees from various backgrounds bring invaluable insights into different cultural nuances, consumer behaviors, and market trends across different regions. This knowledge is crucial for tailoring products and marketing strategies to diverse international audiences, thereby facilitating successful global expansion.

Moreover, diversity can significantly improve decision-making processes within an organization. Research has shown that diverse teams are more likely to remain objective, re-examine facts, and challenge assumptions, leading to more thorough and well-rounded decisions.

From a talent acquisition and retention perspective, embracing diversity makes a company more attractive to a broader pool of skilled professionals. It signals an inclusive culture that values different perspectives, which can be a key factor in attracting top talent from around the world.

Lastly, a diverse workforce can enhance a company’s reputation and brand image. In an era where corporate social responsibility is increasingly important to consumers and investors alike, demonstrating a commitment to diversity and inclusion can strengthen stakeholder relationships and brand loyalty.

Multicultural business meeting in global corporation

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking when discussing working with someone from a different background, consider using the following vocabulary and phrases:

1. Cultural diversity /ˈkʌltʃərəl daɪˈvɜːsəti/ (noun): The existence of different cultures or ethnic groups within a society.
   Example: “The cultural diversity in our team brought a wealth of perspectives to the project.”

2. Cross-cultural collaboration /krɒs-ˈkʌltʃərəl kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃn/ (noun): The process of working together with people from different cultural backgrounds.
   Example: “Our cross-cultural collaboration led to innovative solutions that appealed to a global audience.”

3. Intercultural communication /ˌɪntəˈkʌltʃərəl kəˌmjuːnɪˈkeɪʃn/ (noun): The exchange of information between individuals from different cultural backgrounds.
   Example: “Effective intercultural communication was key to the success of our international project.”

4. Cultural intelligence /ˈkʌltʃərəl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/ (noun): The ability to relate and work effectively across cultures.
   Example: “Working with Akiko helped me develop my cultural intelligence, which has been invaluable in my career.”

5. Synergy /ˈsɪnədʒi/ (noun): The interaction of two or more agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects.
   Example: “The synergy between our diverse skill sets resulted in an exceptional final product.”

6. To bridge the gap (idiom): To connect two different things or groups of people.
   Example: “We had to find ways to bridge the gap between our different working styles.”

7. Cultural sensitivity /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˌsensəˈtɪvəti/ (noun): Awareness and respect for cultural differences.
   Example: “Developing cultural sensitivity was crucial for building trust within our diverse team.”

8. To broaden one’s horizons (idiom): To expand one’s range of knowledge, experiences, or interests.
   Example: “Collaborating with someone from a different background truly broadened my horizons.”

Examiner’s Advice

To score highly on this topic in the IELTS Speaking test, focus on the following:

1. Provide specific examples: Don’t just give general statements about working with people from different backgrounds. Offer concrete examples from your personal experience.

2. Demonstrate cultural awareness: Show that you understand and appreciate cultural differences. Discuss how these differences impacted your work and what you learned from the experience.

3. Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced vocabulary related to cultural diversity and collaboration. This shows linguistic proficiency and a deeper understanding of the topic.

4. Discuss challenges and solutions: Be honest about any difficulties you faced and explain how you overcomed them. This demonstrates problem-solving skills and maturity.

5. Reflect on personal growth: Explain how the experience changed your perspective or enhanced your skills. This shows self-awareness and the ability to learn from experiences.

6. Maintain fluency: Practice speaking on this topic to improve your ability to discuss it smoothly and confidently during the test.

7. Engage with the examiner: In Part 3, try to elaborate on your answers and engage in a genuine discussion. This shows your ability to communicate effectively on abstract topics.

By following these tips and incorporating the suggested vocabulary, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss working with someone from a different background in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to demonstrate not just your English language skills, but also your ability to reflect on and articulate complex interpersonal experiences.

For more practice on similar topics, you might want to describe a member of a team you admire or describe a time when you experienced cultural differences. These exercises will further enhance your ability to discuss diverse workplace experiences and cultural interactions.