The IELTS Speaking test often includes topics about people and their characteristics. One such topic that frequently appears is describing someone who has the ability to make others feel comfortable. This skill is highly valued in both personal and professional settings, making it a relevant and engaging subject for IELTS candidates to discuss. In this article, we’ll explore how to effectively answer questions related to this topic and provide sample responses that can help you achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test, you may encounter questions related to making others feel comfortable. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Q: Do you think you’re good at making others feel comfortable?
A: I’d like to think I have a knack for putting people at ease. I try to be approachable and empathetic in my interactions, which I believe helps others feel more comfortable around me. For instance, when meeting new people, I make a conscious effort to smile, maintain eye contact, and show genuine interest in what they’re saying.
Q: What qualities do you think are important for making others feel comfortable?
A: In my opinion, several qualities are crucial. Being a good listener is paramount – it shows you value the other person’s thoughts and feelings. Empathy is also key, as it allows you to understand and relate to others’ experiences. Additionally, having a positive attitude and a sense of humor can help create a relaxed atmosphere. Lastly, being non-judgmental and open-minded encourages others to be themselves without fear of criticism.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Now, let’s look at a potential cue card for Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking test:
Describe a person who is very good at making others feel comfortable.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What this person does to make others feel comfortable
- And explain why you think this person is good at making others feel comfortable
Sample Answer:
I’d like to talk about my friend Sarah, who has an incredible talent for making people feel at ease. I met Sarah during our first year at university, where we were both studying psychology. From the moment I met her, I was struck by her warm and welcoming demeanor.
Sarah has a remarkable ability to put others at ease in various situations. One of the things she does is actively listen when someone is speaking. She maintains eye contact, nods encouragingly, and asks thoughtful follow-up questions. This makes people feel heard and valued. Additionally, Sarah has a great sense of humor and often uses light-hearted jokes to break the ice in tense or awkward situations.
Another thing that sets Sarah apart is her empathetic nature. She’s incredibly perceptive and can often pick up on subtle cues that someone might be feeling uncomfortable or anxious. In these situations, she’ll go out of her way to make them feel included, perhaps by asking for their opinion or finding common ground to discuss.
I believe Sarah is so effective at making others feel comfortable because she genuinely cares about people. Her actions aren’t forced or insincere; they come from a place of authentic interest in others’ well-being. Moreover, her background in psychology has given her insights into human behavior and communication, which she applies skillfully in her interactions.
In conclusion, Sarah’s combination of active listening, empathy, humor, and genuine care makes her exceptionally good at putting others at ease. Her ability to create a comfortable atmosphere is truly remarkable and something I greatly admire about her.
Follow-up Questions:
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Q: How has Sarah’s ability to make others comfortable benefited her in her career?
A: Sarah’s interpersonal skills have been invaluable in her career as a therapist. Her ability to create a safe and comfortable environment for her clients has helped them open up more easily, leading to more effective therapy sessions. Additionally, her colleagues often seek her out for advice on handling difficult situations with clients, recognizing her expertise in this area. -
Q: Do you think the ability to make others comfortable is an innate skill or can it be learned?
A: While some people may have a natural predisposition towards making others comfortable, I firmly believe this skill can be developed and honed over time. It requires self-awareness, empathy, and practice. By consciously working on active listening, showing genuine interest in others, and being mindful of our body language and tone, we can all improve our ability to put others at ease.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Q: Why do you think some people are better at making others feel comfortable than others?
A: There are several factors that contribute to this ability. Firstly, emotional intelligence plays a crucial role. People who are highly attuned to others’ emotions and can respond appropriately are often better at creating a comfortable atmosphere. Secondly, life experiences can shape this skill. Those who have been exposed to diverse social situations may have had more opportunities to develop and refine their interpersonal skills.
Additionally, cultural background can influence one’s ability to make others feel comfortable. Some cultures place a higher value on hospitality and social harmony, which may foster these skills from an early age. Lastly, personality traits such as extroversion and agreeableness can make it easier for some individuals to connect with others and create a welcoming environment.
Q: In what situations is the ability to make others feel comfortable particularly important?
A: This skill is invaluable in numerous contexts. In professional settings, such as job interviews or business negotiations, the ability to put others at ease can foster open communication and lead to more favorable outcomes. In healthcare, doctors and nurses who can make patients feel comfortable often facilitate better treatment as patients are more likely to share important information.
In education, teachers who create a comfortable classroom environment can enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. Moreover, in social work and counseling, the ability to make clients feel safe and understood is paramount to providing effective support.
Even in everyday social interactions, this skill can significantly enhance relationships and social experiences. Ultimately, the ability to make others feel comfortable is a universally beneficial trait that can positively impact various aspects of both personal and professional life.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking test, incorporate these sophisticated words and phrases into your responses:
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Empathetic /ɪmˈpæθətɪk/ (adj): Able to understand and share the feelings of others.
Example: “Her empathetic nature allows her to connect deeply with others.” -
Perceptive /pəˈseptɪv/ (adj): Having or showing sensitive insight.
Example: “John’s perceptive observations help him gauge others’ comfort levels accurately.” -
To put at ease (idiom): To make someone feel relaxed and comfortable.
Example: “Her warm smile immediately put the nervous students at ease.” -
Interpersonal skills (noun phrase): The ability to communicate or interact well with other people.
Example: “Developing strong interpersonal skills is crucial for success in customer service roles.” -
To break the ice (idiom): To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.
Example: “She used humor to break the ice at the networking event.” -
Approachable /əˈprəʊtʃəbl/ (adj): Friendly and easy to talk to.
Example: “His approachable demeanor encourages shy team members to share their ideas.” -
To foster /ˈfɒstə/ (verb): To encourage or promote the development of something.
Example: “Good leaders foster an environment where everyone feels comfortable expressing their opinions.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing topics like making others feel comfortable, focus on the following:
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Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate sophisticated words and phrases related to interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence.
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Provide specific examples: Support your points with personal anecdotes or observations to demonstrate your ability to apply abstract concepts to real-life situations.
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Show critical thinking: When answering Part 3 questions, demonstrate your ability to analyze the topic from multiple perspectives.
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Maintain fluency: Practice speaking on this topic to improve your ability to discuss it smoothly and confidently.
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Use appropriate body language: Remember that non-verbal communication is also important in making others feel comfortable. Practice maintaining eye contact and using open body language during your responses.
By following these tips and incorporating the sample answers and vocabulary provided, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss the topic of making others feel comfortable in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, practice is key to achieving a high band score!
For more tips on improving your IELTS Speaking skills, check out our article on how to give a presentation under pressure, which can help you feel more comfortable during your test.