Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe a Conversation that Influenced Your Decision

Describing a conversation that influenced your decision is a common topic in IELTS Speaking exams. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to articulate personal experiences, reflect on important interactions, and demonstrate your English language skills in narrating events. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively and aim for a high band score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about conversations and decision-making. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Question: Do you often have important conversations with others?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do have important conversations from time to time. Usually, these are with my family or close friends about personal matters or future plans.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. I frequently engage in meaningful dialogues, particularly with my mentors and colleagues. These conversations often revolve around career decisions, personal growth, and long-term goals. I find that such discussions are invaluable for gaining new perspectives and making informed choices.

Part 2: Long Turn

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

Describe a conversation that influenced your decision

You should say:
- Who you had the conversation with
- What the conversation was about
- When and where the conversation took place
- And explain how this conversation influenced your decision

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

I’d like to talk about a pivotal conversation I had with my university professor, Dr. Johnson, which significantly influenced my decision to pursue a career in environmental science.

This conversation took place during my final year of undergraduate studies, approximately two years ago. It happened in Dr. Johnson’s office after one of her engaging lectures on climate change and its global impact.

The discussion initially centered around my final year project, but it quickly evolved into a more profound dialogue about the pressing environmental challenges our planet faces. Dr. Johnson shared her experiences working on various conservation projects and emphasized the critical need for dedicated professionals in this field.

What struck me most was her passion and unwavering commitment to making a tangible difference. She painted a vivid picture of the potential impact one could have in this domain, from developing sustainable technologies to shaping environmental policies.

This conversation was instrumental in shaping my career path. Dr. Johnson’s insights opened my eyes to the vast opportunities within environmental science and the profound impact one could have on global sustainability. Her words resonated deeply with my personal values and aspirations.

The conversation served as a catalyst, prompting me to critically evaluate my career options. It made me realize that I could channel my passion for nature into a meaningful profession that contributes to the well-being of our planet.

Ultimately, this discussion played a pivotal role in my decision to pursue a master’s degree in Environmental Conservation. It not only influenced my immediate academic choices but also set the course for my long-term career goals in environmental advocacy and research.

Follow-up Questions:

1. How do you usually make important decisions?
2. Do you think it’s better to make decisions alone or after discussing with others?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I usually think about the pros and cons before making important decisions. I think it’s better to discuss with others because they can give different perspectives.

Band 8-9 Answer:
When faced with crucial decisions, I typically employ a systematic approach. I start by gathering relevant information, then carefully weigh the potential outcomes of each option. I find it incredibly valuable to seek input from trusted individuals who can offer diverse perspectives. While I believe in the importance of personal reflection, I’m convinced that collaborative decision-making often leads to more well-rounded and informed choices. The insights gained from discussions can unveil blind spots and introduce considerations I might have overlooked.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Question: How do you think technology has changed the way people communicate and make decisions?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Technology has made communication faster and easier. People can now talk to others from anywhere in the world. For decision-making, there’s more information available online, which can help people make better choices.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Technology has revolutionized communication and decision-making processes in profound ways. On the communication front, it has dramatically increased the speed and reach of our interactions. We now have the ability to instantaneously connect with individuals across the globe, facilitating real-time collaboration and idea exchange. This global connectivity has broadened our perspectives and allowed for more diverse input in decision-making.

Moreover, technology has democratized access to information, which has significantly impacted how we make decisions. We now have vast amounts of data at our fingertips, enabling more informed and data-driven choices. However, this abundance of information also presents challenges, such as information overload and the need for critical evaluation of sources.

Another interesting aspect is how technology has altered the dynamics of group decision-making. Virtual meeting platforms and collaborative tools have made it possible for teams to make decisions without being physically present, enhancing flexibility but potentially reducing the nuances of face-to-face interactions.

While these technological advancements offer numerous benefits, they also raise important considerations about digital literacy, privacy, and the potential for echo chambers in our decision-making processes. Balancing the advantages of technology with mindful, human-centered approaches remains a key challenge in our increasingly digital world.

Technology's impact on communication and decision-making

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To achieve a high band score, incorporate advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions. Here are some examples used in the sample answers:

1. Pivotal conversation /ˈpɪvətl ˌkɒnvəˈseɪʃn/ (adj. + noun): A very important or significant discussion that changes the course of events.
   Example: “The pivotal conversation with my mentor shaped my entire career path.”

2. To resonate deeply /ˈrezəneɪt ˈdiːpli/ (verb phrase): To have a strong, lasting impact on someone.
   Example: “Her words about environmental conservation resonated deeply with me.”

3. To channel one’s passion /tə ˈtʃænl wʌnz ˈpæʃn/ (verb phrase): To direct one’s strong feelings or enthusiasm towards a particular activity or cause.
   Example: “I decided to channel my passion for technology into developing eco-friendly innovations.”

4. To play a pivotal role /tə pleɪ ə ˈpɪvətl rəʊl/ (verb phrase): To be very important in the development of something.
   Example: “That conversation played a pivotal role in my decision to change careers.”

5. To employ a systematic approach /tə ɪmˈplɔɪ ə ˌsɪstəˈmætɪk əˈprəʊtʃ/ (verb phrase): To use a methodical and organized way of doing something.
   Example: “When making important decisions, I always employ a systematic approach to evaluate all options.”

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing influential conversations:

1. Practice narrating personal experiences fluently and coherently. Focus on organizing your thoughts logically and providing relevant details.

2. Expand your vocabulary, especially words and phrases related to communication, decision-making, and influence. Use these naturally in your responses.

3. Work on your pronunciation and intonation to ensure clarity in your speech. This is particularly important when recounting conversations.

4. Develop your ability to reflect on past events and articulate their impact on your life. This skill is crucial for answering follow-up questions effectively.

5. Familiarize yourself with a range of topics related to communication and decision-making in various contexts (personal, professional, academic) to prepare for different question types.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and natural use of advanced language structures.

By following these guidelines and consistently practicing, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss influential conversations and other topics in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!

Describe a subject in school that you found very engaging can be another interesting topic to explore for your IELTS Speaking practice. It allows you to showcase your ability to discuss academic experiences and personal interests, which are valuable skills for the exam.