Those seeking guidance on describing a person who is very hardworking in their job will find this topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic comprehensively.
IELTS Speaking examiner conducting interview with test taker
Part 1: Introduction Questions
Common questions include:
- Do you consider yourself hardworking?
- What makes someone hardworking in your opinion?
- Is it important to be hardworking in today’s world?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d say I’m quite dedicated to my work. I believe being hardworking means showing consistent commitment and going the extra mile rather than just putting in long hours. In today’s competitive world, it’s absolutely essential to be hardworking because success rarely comes without genuine effort and dedication.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a person who is very hardworking
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What they do
- How you know them
- And explain why you think they are hardworking
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about my colleague Sarah Chen, who I admire for their work ethic. She’s a senior software developer at our company who consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication to her work.
Sarah goes above and beyond in everything she does. She not only excels in her primary responsibilities but also takes initiative in mentoring junior developers and contributing to open-source projects. What truly sets her apart is her unwavering commitment to continuous learning – she’s always the first to volunteer for new challenges and stays ahead of industry trends.
I’ve had the privilege of working directly with her on several projects over the past three years. Her meticulous attention to detail and proactive approach to problem-solving have significantly influenced our team’s success.
What makes her particularly hardworking isn’t just the long hours she puts in, but her strategic approach to work. She prioritizes effectively, maintains high standards, and has been a role model for the entire team.”
Professional working diligently in modern office setting
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: How has the concept of being hardworking changed with technology?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The digital revolution has fundamentally transformed the nature of hard work. Today, being hardworking involves mastering new technologies, adapting to rapid changes, and maintaining productivity in an increasingly connected world. It’s no longer about physical endurance but rather mental agility and the ability to continuously upgrade one’s skills.”
Q: Is there a difference between being hardworking and being successful?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“While there’s often a strong correlation, they’re not necessarily synonymous. Hard work is a crucial component of success, but other factors like strategic thinking, networking abilities, and market awareness play vital roles too. Some successful small businesses thrive not just through hard work but through smart work and innovation.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Dedication /ˌdedɪˈkeɪʃn/ (n): complete and wholehearted commitment
- Go above and beyond (idiom): to do more than is expected
- Take initiative (phrase): to take action without being asked
- Meticulous /məˈtɪkjʊləs/ (adj): showing great attention to detail
- Unwavering /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ/ (adj): steady and determined
- Proactive /prəʊˈæktɪv/ (adj): taking action before problems arise
Remember to practice these expressions in context and focus on natural delivery during your speaking test.
