Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe an Interesting Job You Wouldn’t Want to Do

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In the first part of the IELTS Speaking test, the examiner may ask you some general questions about jobs and careers. Here are a few possible questions:

1. What kind of work do you do?
2. Do you enjoy your job? Why/Why not?
3. What job would you like to do in the future?
4. Are there any jobs you wouldn’t want to do? Why not?

Let’s focus on the last question as it relates to our main topic. Here’s a sample answer:

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

“Well, there are certainly some jobs I wouldn’t be keen on doing. For instance, I find the work of deep-sea welders fascinating, but I wouldn’t want to pursue it as a career. While it’s undeniably crucial for maintaining underwater structures, the inherent risks and challenging work environment make it less appealing to me personally. I have immense respect for those who do this job, but I prefer work that doesn’t involve such extreme conditions.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a cue card related to our topic:

Describe a job you find interesting but wouldn't want to do

You should say:
- What the job is
- How you know about this job
- What skills or qualities are needed for this job
- And explain why you find it interesting but wouldn't want to do it

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

“I’d like to talk about the job of a wildlife photographer. I first learned about this profession through nature documentaries and magazines like National Geographic. Wildlife photographers need to have excellent photography skills, patience, and a deep understanding of animal behavior. They also need to be physically fit as the job often involves trekking through challenging terrains.

I find this job interesting because it allows you to witness and capture amazing moments in nature that most people never get to see. The thrill of spotting rare animals and the opportunity to raise awareness about wildlife conservation are also very appealing aspects of the job.

However, I wouldn’t want to do this job myself for several reasons. Firstly, it often requires long periods away from home, which wouldn’t suit my lifestyle. Secondly, there can be significant risks involved when working with wild animals. Lastly, the unpredictable nature of the work, where you might spend days waiting for the perfect shot, would be quite frustrating for me personally.

Despite these drawbacks, I have great admiration for wildlife photographers and the important work they do in documenting and preserving the natural world.”

Wildlife photographer in action

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to discuss the captivating yet demanding profession of a wildlife photographer. This career first piqued my interest through immersive nature documentaries and thought-provoking articles in esteemed publications like National Geographic.

To excel in this field, one must possess an extraordinary blend of skills and qualities. Paramount among these is an exceptional eye for composition and the technical prowess to operate sophisticated camera equipment in challenging conditions. Equally crucial is an in-depth understanding of animal behavior, which enables photographers to anticipate and capture pivotal moments. Physical endurance and mental resilience are also indispensable, as the job often entails arduous treks through inhospitable terrains and prolonged periods of waiting for the perfect shot.

The allure of this profession lies in its unique ability to bridge the gap between humanity and the natural world. Wildlife photographers have the unparalleled opportunity to witness and document some of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles, from the raw power of predator-prey interactions to the delicate intricacies of ecosystems. Moreover, their work plays a vital role in conservation efforts, raising public awareness about endangered species and threatened habitats.

Despite my profound admiration for this career, I personally wouldn’t pursue it due to several factors. The nomadic lifestyle it often necessitates, with extended periods away from home, would be at odds with my personal priorities. Additionally, the inherent dangers of working in close proximity to wild animals and in remote locations are risks I’m not comfortable assuming. Lastly, the unpredictable nature of the work, where success often hinges on serendipitous moments, would likely prove frustrating for someone like myself who prefers more structured and controllable work environments.

In conclusion, while I find the profession of wildlife photography deeply fascinating and immensely important, I believe I can better contribute to conservation efforts through other means that align more closely with my personal strengths and lifestyle preferences.”

Follow-up questions:

1. What kind of equipment do wildlife photographers typically use?
2. How has digital technology changed wildlife photography?

Sample answers (Band 8-9):

1. “Wildlife photographers typically employ a diverse array of specialized equipment to capture their subjects. High-end DSLRs or mirrorless cameras with exceptional low-light performance and rapid burst modes are essential for freezing fast-moving animals in action. Telephoto lenses, often with focal lengths ranging from 200mm to 600mm or even longer, allow photographers to capture detailed images from a safe distance. Sturdy tripods and gimbal heads provide stability for these heavy lens setups. Additionally, camouflage gear, including clothing and camera covers, helps photographers blend into their surroundings. In more extreme environments, weatherproof casings protect equipment from the elements, while remote triggers and camera traps enable the capture of shy or nocturnal species.”

2. “Digital technology has revolutionized wildlife photography in numerous ways. Firstly, it has dramatically increased the number of shots a photographer can take, allowing for more opportunities to capture that perfect moment. High ISO capabilities of modern cameras have made it possible to shoot in low-light conditions that were previously impossible, opening up new avenues for documenting nocturnal wildlife. Advanced autofocus systems have improved the ability to track and capture fast-moving subjects with precision.

   Moreover, the instant feedback provided by digital cameras allows photographers to adjust their settings on the fly, ensuring they get the shot before leaving a location. Post-processing software has also given photographers greater control over the final image, allowing for subtle enhancements that can bring out the best in their work.

   Lastly, the ease of sharing digital images online has democratized wildlife photography, enabling photographers to reach a global audience and raise awareness about conservation issues more effectively than ever before. This has led to a surge in citizen science, where amateur photographers contribute valuable data to scientific research through their images.”

Modern wildlife photography equipment

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: Let’s talk more about interesting jobs. Do you think it’s important for people to find their jobs interesting?

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

“Yes, I think it’s very important for people to find their jobs interesting. When someone is interested in their work, they’re more likely to be motivated and do a good job. It can also make them happier overall because they spend a lot of time at work. However, I know that not everyone can have a job they find interesting all the time. Sometimes people need to work in jobs they don’t like very much to earn money or gain experience. But I think it’s good to try to find aspects of any job that are interesting, even if the whole job isn’t perfect.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I believe that finding one’s job interesting is absolutely crucial for several reasons. Firstly, when individuals are genuinely engaged in their work, it fosters intrinsic motivation, which often leads to enhanced productivity and innovation. This not only benefits the individual but also contributes to the overall success of their organization and, by extension, the broader economy.

Moreover, given that we spend a significant portion of our lives at work, finding our jobs interesting can have a profound impact on our overall well-being and life satisfaction. It can reduce stress, prevent burnout, and contribute to a more positive work-life balance.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that the concept of an ‘interesting job’ is highly subjective and can vary greatly from person to person. What one individual finds fascinating, another might find mundane. Additionally, in today’s rapidly evolving job market, the nature of work is constantly changing, which means that maintaining interest might require continuous learning and adaptability.

While it’s ideal to have a job that aligns perfectly with one’s interests, it’s not always feasible for everyone. Economic realities, personal circumstances, or a lack of opportunities in certain fields can sometimes necessitate working in less interesting roles. In such cases, I believe it’s valuable to cultivate a growth mindset and try to find meaning or create interest within one’s current role, perhaps by setting personal challenges or exploring new aspects of the job.

Ultimately, while having an interesting job is important, it’s also crucial to maintain a holistic perspective on life, finding fulfillment not just in work, but in relationships, hobbies, and personal growth as well.”

Examiner: How do you think technology will change the nature of work in the future?

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

“I think technology will change work a lot in the future. Many jobs might be done by robots or computers, especially jobs that involve repetitive tasks. This might mean some people will lose their jobs, which could be a problem. But technology might also create new jobs that we can’t even imagine now. People might need to learn new skills to keep up with these changes. I think work might become more flexible, with more people working from home or having different work hours because of technology. Overall, I think technology will make many jobs easier and more efficient, but it might also create some challenges for workers.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“The impact of technology on the future of work is likely to be profound and multifaceted. We’re already witnessing the early stages of this transformation, and I anticipate that these changes will accelerate in the coming years.

Firstly, automation and artificial intelligence are poised to revolutionize many industries. Routine and repetitive tasks, both physical and cognitive, are increasingly being handled by machines. This shift will likely lead to the obsolescence of certain job categories, particularly in manufacturing, data entry, and customer service. However, it’s crucial to note that while some jobs may disappear, new roles will emerge. We’re likely to see a growing demand for professionals who can develop, maintain, and optimize these technological systems.

The gig economy and remote work, facilitated by digital platforms and communication technologies, are reshaping traditional employment models. This trend towards more flexible work arrangements is likely to continue, offering both opportunities and challenges. While it provides greater autonomy and work-life balance for some, it may also lead to job insecurity and a lack of traditional employment benefits for others.

Moreover, the rapid pace of technological change means that continuous learning and skill adaptation will become increasingly important. The concept of a single career for life is becoming obsolete, replaced by the need for lifelong learning and multiple career transitions. This shift will require a fundamental rethinking of education and training systems to better prepare individuals for this new reality.

Technology is also likely to blur the lines between different industries and job roles. We may see the emergence of entirely new fields at the intersection of traditional disciplines, requiring professionals with interdisciplinary skills and the ability to synthesize knowledge from various domains.

Lastly, as technology automates more routine tasks, there may be an increased emphasis on uniquely human skills such as creativity, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and complex problem-solving. Jobs that require these skills are likely to be more resilient to automation.

In conclusion, while technology will undoubtedly bring significant changes to the nature of work, I believe the key to navigating this future lies in our ability to adapt, embrace lifelong learning, and leverage technology to enhance rather than replace human capabilities.”

Futuristic workplace with advanced technology

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

1. Captivating (adjective) /ˈkæptɪveɪtɪŋ/: Very attractive and interesting.
   Example: The wildlife photographer’s work was captivating, showcasing the beauty of nature.

2. Pique one’s interest (phrase) /piːk wʌnz ˈɪntrəst/: To arouse curiosity or interest.
   Example: The documentary about wildlife photography really piqued my interest in the profession.

3. Inhospitable (adjective) /ˌɪnhɒˈspɪtəbl/: Not friendly or pleasant; harsh and difficult to live in.
   Example: Wildlife photographers often work in inhospitable environments like deserts or arctic regions.

4. Serendipitous (adjective) /ˌserənˈdɪpɪtəs/: Occurring or discovered by chance in a happy or beneficial way.
   Example: Many great wildlife photographs are the result of serendipitous encounters with animals.

5. Democratize (verb) /dɪˈmɒkrətaɪz/: To make something accessible to everyone.
   Example: Digital technology has democratized wildlife photography, allowing more people to participate in the field.

6. Intrinsic motivation (noun phrase) /ɪnˈtrɪnsɪk ˌməʊtɪˈveɪʃn/: The drive to engage in an activity because it is inherently interesting or enjoyable.
   Example: Having an interesting job often leads to intrinsic motivation, resulting in better performance.

7. Cultivate a growth mindset (phrase) /ˈkʌltɪveɪt ə ɡrəʊθ ˈmaɪndset/: To develop an attitude of continuous learning and improvement.
   Example: In rapidly changing job markets, it’s important to cultivate a growth mindset to stay relevant.

8. Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/: Having many different aspects or features.
   Example: The impact of technology on the future of work is likely to be multifaceted, affecting various industries in different ways.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing an interesting job you wouldn’t want to do, consider the following tips:

1. Vocabulary: Use a wide range of vocabulary, including less common words and phrases. Don’t just describe the job as “interesting” – use synonyms like “captivating”, “fascinating”, or “intriguing”.

2. Fluency: Speak at a natural pace without long pauses. Practice talking about various jobs beforehand to improve your fluency on this topic.

3. Coherence: Organize your ideas logically. In Part 2, follow the cue card prompts to structure your answer. In Parts 1 and 3, use linking words to connect your ideas smoothly.

4. Grammar: Demonstrate your ability to use a variety of grammatical structures accurately. Use conditional sentences to talk about hypothetical situations (e.g., “If I were a wildlife photographer, I would…”).

5. Pronunciation: Pay attention to individual sounds, word stress, and sentence stress. Practice pronouncing job-related vocabulary correctly.

6. Elaboration: Don’t just give short answers. Explain your points and provide examples or personal experiences to support your ideas.

7. Critical thinking: In Part 3, show your ability to analyze issues from different perspectives. Discuss both advantages and disadvantages of interesting but challenging jobs.

8. Authenticity: While it’s good to prepare, avoid memorized answers. Examiners are looking for natural, spontaneous speech.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is to communicate effectively and confidently while showcasing your English language skills. Regular practice with a variety of topics will help you achieve this goal.