The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential people in our lives. One common topic is describing someone who has had a significant impact on your career choices. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, providing sample responses and expert tips to help you achieve a high band score.

Understanding the Task

Before we dive into the specifics, it’s important to understand that this topic falls under the broader category of personal experiences and influences. Examiners are looking for your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly, use appropriate vocabulary, and provide relevant details about the person and their influence on your career path.

Career Influence

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, you may encounter questions that lead into the main topic. Here are some examples:

1. Do you have a job or are you a student?
2. What field are you studying/working in?
3. Who influenced your choice of career/study?

Let’s focus on the third question as it directly relates to our main topic.

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):

“I’m currently working as a software developer, and I’d say my high school computer science teacher had a significant impact on my career choice. Her passion for coding and the way she explained complex concepts really sparked my interest in this field.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’m employed as a software engineer, and I can confidently say that my high school computer science teacher played a pivotal role in shaping my career path. Her infectious enthusiasm for programming and her knack for demystifying intricate concepts not only ignited my passion for this field but also laid the foundation for my future in tech.”

Part 2: Long Turn

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some points to cover. Here’s a sample cue card related to our theme:

Describe A Person Who Has Influenced Your Career Path.

You should say:

• Who this person is
• How you know this person
• What this person’s job is
• And explain how this person influenced your career path

You’ll have one minute to prepare, and then you should speak for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample response:

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):

“I’d like to talk about my uncle, John, who has had a significant influence on my career path. I’ve known him since childhood, as he’s my father’s younger brother, and we’ve always been close.

John is a successful architect, running his own firm in the city. He’s been in the field for over 20 years and has worked on some impressive projects, including eco-friendly residential complexes and innovative office spaces.

His influence on my career path has been profound. From a young age, I was fascinated by his sketches and models. He often took me to construction sites, explaining the process of turning designs into reality. This early exposure to architecture sparked my interest in the field.

What impressed me most about John was his passion for creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and sustainable. He taught me that architecture is about problem-solving and improving people’s lives, not just about designing beautiful buildings.

John’s guidance and mentorship were invaluable when I was choosing my university course. He helped me understand the challenges and rewards of the profession, which cemented my decision to pursue architecture as a career.

Even now, as I’m studying architecture at university, John continues to be a source of inspiration and advice. His innovative approach to design and his commitment to sustainability have shaped my own philosophy towards architecture.

In conclusion, my uncle John has been a pivotal figure in influencing my career path. His passion, expertise, and guidance have not only led me to choose architecture as my profession but continue to shape my approach to the field.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to discuss my uncle, John, who has been an instrumental figure in shaping my career trajectory. Our relationship dates back to my earliest memories, as he’s my father’s younger sibling, and we’ve always shared a close bond.

John is a distinguished architect, helming his own successful firm in the heart of the city. With over two decades of experience under his belt, he’s left his mark on the urban landscape through a series of groundbreaking projects, including sustainable residential complexes and cutting-edge corporate spaces.

The impact John has had on my career path has been nothing short of transformative. From my formative years, I was captivated by his intricate sketches and meticulously crafted models. He frequently invited me to accompany him to construction sites, unraveling the complexities of translating abstract designs into tangible structures. This immersive exposure to the world of architecture ignited a passion within me that has only grown stronger over time.

What struck me most profoundly about John was his unwavering commitment to creating spaces that transcend mere aesthetic appeal, focusing instead on functionality and sustainability. Through his example, I learned that architecture is a powerful tool for problem-solving and enhancing quality of life, extending far beyond the realm of visual design.

John’s mentorship and guidance proved invaluable during the critical juncture of selecting my university course. He offered deep insights into both the challenges and rewards inherent in the profession, which ultimately solidified my resolve to pursue architecture as my vocation.

Even now, as I navigate my architectural studies at university, John remains a constant source of inspiration and sage advice. His innovative design philosophy and steadfast commitment to sustainability have profoundly influenced my own architectural ethos.

In essence, my uncle John has been a catalyst in my journey towards becoming an architect. His passion, expertise, and ongoing guidance have not only steered me towards this profession but continue to mold my perspective and approach to the field, instilling in me a deep appreciation for architecture’s power to shape our world.”

Follow-up Questions:

1. How important do you think role models are in choosing a career?
2. Do you think people should follow in their parents’ career footsteps?
3. How has technology changed career choices in recent years?

Let’s focus on the first question:

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):

“I believe role models play a crucial role in career choices. They provide real-life examples of success in a particular field, which can be very inspiring. Role models can also offer valuable insights into the realities of a profession, helping people make more informed decisions about their careers.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“In my opinion, role models are instrumental in shaping career choices. They serve as living testaments to success in specific fields, offering tangible inspiration to those contemplating similar paths. Moreover, role models provide an unvarnished glimpse into the day-to-day realities of a profession, enabling individuals to make well-informed decisions about their career trajectories. Their experiences can illuminate both the challenges and rewards inherent in a particular vocation, thereby helping aspirants to align their expectations with the realities of their chosen field.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this part, the examiner will ask you more abstract questions related to the topic. Here’s an example:

Examiner: “How do you think the influence of role models on career choices has changed over the years?”

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):

“I think the influence of role models on career choices has evolved significantly over the years. In the past, people were often limited to role models in their immediate environment, like family members or local professionals. Now, with the internet and social media, we have access to a much wider range of role models from all over the world.

This broader exposure has both positive and negative aspects. On the positive side, it allows people to discover careers they might not have known about otherwise. It also provides more diverse examples of success in various fields. However, there’s also a risk of developing unrealistic expectations based on carefully curated online personas.

Another change is the increasing emphasis on entrepreneurship and non-traditional career paths. This has led to a rise in unconventional role models, inspiring people to create their own career paths rather than following established ones.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“The dynamics of role model influence on career choices have undergone a profound transformation over the years. Historically, individuals were largely confined to role models within their immediate sphere – family members, local professionals, or perhaps national figures. However, the advent of the internet and the proliferation of social media have dramatically expanded the pool of potential role models, offering a global perspective on career possibilities.

This paradigm shift has ushered in both unprecedented opportunities and unique challenges. On the positive side, it has democratized access to inspiration, allowing individuals to discover and explore careers that may have previously been unknown or seemed unattainable. It has also fostered greater diversity in role models, showcasing success stories from a wide array of backgrounds and experiences.

However, this expanded exposure is not without its pitfalls. There’s an inherent risk of developing unrealistic expectations or misguided perceptions based on the often carefully curated and polished online personas of these role models. This can lead to a disconnect between aspirations and reality, potentially setting individuals up for disappointment or disillusionment.

Another significant shift has been the growing emphasis on entrepreneurship and non-traditional career trajectories. This trend has given rise to a new breed of role models who embody the spirit of innovation and self-made success. Consequently, we’re witnessing a surge in individuals inspired to forge their own unique paths rather than adhering to conventional career routes.

In essence, while the fundamental concept of role models influencing career choices remains intact, the scope, diversity, and impact of these influences have expanded exponentially. This evolution presents both exciting opportunities for career exploration and the need for a more discerning approach to processing the wealth of information and inspiration now at our fingertips.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To elevate your speaking performance, incorporate these sophisticated words and phrases:

1. Pivotal /ˈpɪv.ə.təl/ (adjective): of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else
   Example: “My mentor played a pivotal role in shaping my career.”

2. Instrumental /ˌɪn.strə.ˈmen.təl/ (adjective): important in making something happen
   Example: “Her guidance was instrumental in my decision to pursue medicine.”

3. To spark interest (phrase): to cause sudden interest or excitement
   Example: “His lectures sparked my interest in quantum physics.”

4. To cement a decision (phrase): to make a decision firm or definite
   Example: “My internship cemented my decision to become a journalist.”

5. Transformative /trænsˈfɔː.mə.tɪv/ (adjective): causing a major change to something or someone
   Example: “The experience was transformative, completely altering my career goals.”

Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner

1. Prepare personal anecdotes: Having real-life examples ready will make your answers more authentic and engaging.

2. Practice fluency: Aim for smooth delivery without long pauses. Regular practice with a timer can help.

3. Expand your vocabulary: Learn synonyms for common words related to careers and influence. Use them naturally in your responses.

4. Develop your ideas: Don’t just list facts. Explain your thoughts and provide reasons for your opinions.

5. Listen carefully: Make sure you understand the question fully before answering, especially in Part 3 where questions can be more abstract.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about perfect grammar or vocabulary, but about communicating your ideas clearly and confidently. Good luck with your preparation!

For more tips on IELTS Speaking, you might find these articles helpful:

• Describe a person who has a passion for education
• Describe a person who has influenced your understanding of the world
• Describe a time when you had to face a difficult decision