The IELTS Speaking test evaluates your ability to communicate effectively in English. This test has three parts: Introduction and Interview, Long Turn, and Two-Way Discussion. The examiner looks for fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, accuracy, and pronunciation. One common topic that may appear in the exam is “Describe a person who is good at networking.” Understanding the nuances of this topic and preparing thoroughly can significantly enhance your chances of achieving a high score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
The first part of the speaking test involves answering questions about yourself, your work/studies, and other general topics. Here, the examiner assesses your ability to answer straightforward questions without hesitation.
Common Questions
- Can you tell me about a person you know who is good at networking?
- How important do you think networking is for professionals?
- What skills do you think are necessary to be good at networking?
Sample Answer
Question: Can you tell me about a person you know who is good at networking?
Answer: Yes, I can. I know a colleague, Sarah, who is exceptionally proficient at networking. She has an incredible ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and build lasting professional relationships. Sarah often attends industry events and always makes a point to introduce herself to new people. Her friendly demeanor and excellent communication skills make her highly approachable, and she frequently follows up with contacts through LinkedIn, which helps maintain those connections.
Part 2: Long Turn
In the Long Turn section, you will have to speak about a particular topic for 1-2 minutes. You are given a cue card with the topic and some guiding points. This section tests your ability to organize your thoughts and speak at length on a given subject.
Cue Card
Describe a person who is good at networking. You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What kinds of people they network with
- Why they are good at networking
Sample Answer
Answer: I would like to talk about my former boss, John Smith, who is exceedingly good at networking. John is the CEO of a major marketing firm, and I had the privilege of working closely with him for several years.
John networks with a wide range of individuals, including industry leaders, potential clients, and even young professionals just starting their careers. His exceptional interpersonal skills and strategic thinking enable him to make connections that are beneficial for mutual growth.
What truly sets John apart is his genuine interest in people. He listens attentively and makes others feel valued, which helps in establishing trust. Moreover, he is adept at leveraging technology and attends numerous seminars and webinars, always staying updated with the latest industry trends. His charismatic personality and strategic follow-ups make him a master at networking, always drawing people towards him.
Part 3: Two-Way Discussion
In the final part of the speaking test, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic discussed in Part 2. This part examines your ability to analyze, express opinions, and discuss abstract ideas.
Sample Questions and Answers
Question: Do you think networking is an innate skill, or can it be learned?
Answer: I believe that while some people might have an innate talent for networking due to their outgoing nature or strong communication skills, it is definitely a skill that can be learned and honed over time. Various techniques, like practicing active listening, increasing one’s emotional intelligence, and attending networking workshops, can help individuals improve their networking abilities.
Question: How has social media changed the way people network?
Answer: Social media has revolutionized networking by making it more accessible and far-reaching. Platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter enable people to connect with professionals worldwide, breaking geographical barriers. They also provide tools for maintaining and nurturing these connections through regular updates, shared content, and virtual interactions like webinars and live chats.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To do well in the IELTS Speaking test, using a rich vocabulary and demonstrating a range of grammatical structures is crucial. Here are some words and phrases that can help:
Vocabulary
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Interpersonal skills /ˌɪntərˈpɜːrsənl skɪlz/ (n): Skills used by a person to interact effectively with others.
- Example: Sarah’s interpersonal skills make her excellent at networking.
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Charismatic /ˌkærɪzˈmætɪk/ (adj): Exhibiting a special magnetic charm or appeal.
- Example: John’s charismatic personality helps him in forging new professional relationships.
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Emotional intelligence /ɪˈmoʊʃənl ɪnˈtɛləʤəns/ (n): The ability to understand and manage your own emotions, and those of the people around you.
- Example: High emotional intelligence is essential for effective networking.
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Leverage /ˈlɛvərɪdʒ/ (v): To use (something) to maximum advantage.
- Example: He leverages social media to expand his professional network.
Phrases
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Friendly demeanor (n): A kind and approachable manner.
- Example: Her friendly demeanor makes people feel at ease.
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Exceptional interpersonal skills (n): Outstanding ability to interact with others effectively.
- Example: The project manager’s exceptional interpersonal skills facilitate smooth teamwork.
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Strategic follow-ups (n): Thoughtful and planned actions taken to maintain a relationship.
- Example: Strategic follow-ups after networking events can lead to fruitful business collaborations.
Examiner’s Tips for High Scores
- Practice Regularly: Frequent practice can help improve fluency and coherence. Try to speak in English daily, even to yourself.
- Use a Variety of Sentence Structures: Mix simple, compound, and complex sentences to exhibit a strong grasp of grammatical range.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Make it a habit to learn new words and phrases. Use them in context to become familiar with their usage.
- Stay Calm and Composed: Nervousness can hinder your performance. Practice relaxation techniques to keep calm during the test.
- Engage in Mock Tests: Simulate the exam environment with a friend or tutor to get accustomed to the format and time constraints.
By focusing on these strategies and understanding the nuances of the topic “Describe a person who is good at networking,” you can improve your performance and aim for a high band score in the IELTS Speaking test.