Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about nervousness and how you handle stressful situations. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
- Do you often feel nervous?
Band 6-7 answer:
“Well, I wouldn’t say I feel nervous very often, but there are certainly situations that make me a bit anxious. For example, important exams or job interviews can definitely make me feel on edge. I try to manage it by taking deep breaths and reminding myself that I’m prepared.”
Band 8-9 answer:
“To be honest, I’m generally a pretty calm person, but there are definitely occasions when nervousness creeps in. Public speaking engagements and high-stakes presentations at work can trigger some anxiety. However, I’ve developed strategies over time to mitigate these feelings, such as thorough preparation and positive self-talk.”
- How do you usually deal with stressful situations?
Band 6-7 answer:
“When I’m faced with a stressful situation, I try to stay calm and think logically. I often make a list of what needs to be done and tackle each task one by one. Sometimes, I also talk to friends or family for support and advice.”
Band 8-9 answer:
“I’ve found that adopting a proactive approach is crucial when dealing with stress. I typically start by breaking down the situation into manageable components and prioritizing tasks. Additionally, I’m a firm believer in the power of mindfulness and regular exercise to maintain mental equilibrium. When faced with particularly challenging circumstances, I don’t hesitate to seek guidance from mentors or colleagues who might offer valuable insights.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a time when you felt very nervous but handled the situation well.
You should say:
- When and where it happened
- Why you felt nervous
- What you did to handle the situation
- How you felt afterwards
Sample Answer (Band 6-7)
“I remember feeling incredibly nervous before my first job interview after graduating from university. It was about two years ago, and the interview was for a marketing position at a well-known company in my city.
I felt nervous because it was my first real job interview, and I really wanted to make a good impression. The company had a great reputation, and I knew the competition for the position would be tough.
To handle the situation, I spent a lot of time preparing. I researched the company thoroughly, practiced common interview questions with my friends, and even did some breathing exercises on the morning of the interview to calm my nerves.
During the interview, I tried to speak slowly and clearly, and I made an effort to maintain eye contact with the interviewers. I also reminded myself that being a little nervous was normal and that it showed I cared about the opportunity.
After the interview, I felt a great sense of relief and accomplishment. Even though I wasn’t sure if I would get the job, I was proud of myself for facing my fears and doing my best despite feeling nervous.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I vividly recall an instance when I was overwhelmed with nervousness yet managed to navigate the situation adeptly. It was approximately 18 months ago when I was tasked with delivering a crucial presentation to our company’s board of directors, including several high-profile investors.
The source of my anxiety stemmed from the weighty implications of this presentation. Our team had been working on a groundbreaking project for months, and its future hinged largely on how well I could convey its potential to these key stakeholders. The pressure was palpable, knowing that my performance could significantly impact the project’s funding and, by extension, my colleagues’ hard work.
To tackle this challenge, I employed a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, I immersed myself in rigorous preparation, not only mastering the content but also anticipating potential questions and preparing comprehensive responses. I also enlisted the help of a public speaking coach who provided invaluable tips on body language and vocal techniques. In the days leading up to the presentation, I practiced mindfulness meditation to center myself and manage stress.
On the day of the presentation, I arrived early to familiarize myself with the room and test all technical equipment. As I began speaking, I focused on maintaining a steady pace and projecting confidence through my posture and eye contact. When faced with challenging questions, I took a moment to collect my thoughts before responding thoughtfully.
In the aftermath of the presentation, I experienced an exhilarating mix of relief and pride. The board members’ positive feedback and engaged questions indicated that I had successfully conveyed our project’s potential. This experience served as a powerful reminder of my ability to rise to the occasion even in high-pressure situations, significantly boosting my self-confidence and professional standing.”
Follow-up Questions
- How do you think people can overcome their fear of public speaking?
Band 6-7 answer:
“I think people can overcome their fear of public speaking by practicing a lot. They can start by speaking in front of friends or family, then gradually move to larger groups. Also, joining a public speaking club or taking a course can be really helpful. The more you do it, the less scary it becomes.”
Band 8-9 answer:
“Conquering the fear of public speaking is a journey that requires a multi-pronged approach. Firstly, systematic desensitization through gradual exposure to speaking situations can help build confidence. This could involve starting with small, supportive audiences and progressively moving to larger, more diverse groups. Additionally, mastering the art of thorough preparation is crucial – not just in terms of content, but also in visualizing success and anticipating potential challenges. I also believe in the power of reframing nervous energy as excitement, which can help transform fear into a performance-enhancing tool. Lastly, seeking professional guidance, such as joining Toastmasters or enrolling in specialized courses, can provide structured support and valuable feedback for improvement.”
- Do you think some people are naturally more confident than others?
Band 6-7 answer:
“Yes, I do think some people are naturally more confident than others. It seems like some individuals are just born with a higher level of self-assurance. However, I also believe that confidence is something that can be developed and improved over time with practice and experience.”
Band 8-9 answer:
“While there’s certainly evidence to suggest that some individuals may have a genetic predisposition towards confidence, I believe it’s overly simplistic to attribute confidence solely to nature. A person’s upbringing, environment, and life experiences play a significant role in shaping their self-assurance. That being said, what we often perceive as ‘natural’ confidence may actually be the result of early positive reinforcement and opportunities for skill development. It’s important to recognize that confidence is not a fixed trait but a dynamic quality that can be cultivated and enhanced through deliberate practice, self-reflection, and personal growth. Even those who appear naturally confident often work consciously to maintain and improve their self-assurance in various situations.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: Let’s talk more about managing nervousness in professional settings. How do you think companies can help their employees deal with work-related stress?
Band 6-7 answer:
“I think companies can help their employees deal with work-related stress in several ways. They could offer workshops on stress management or provide access to counseling services. It’s also important for managers to create a supportive work environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their concerns. Additionally, promoting a good work-life balance by encouraging regular breaks and time off can help reduce stress levels.”
Band 8-9 answer:
“Companies can play a pivotal role in helping employees navigate work-related stress through a comprehensive approach. Firstly, implementing robust employee assistance programs that offer confidential counseling and mental health support can provide a crucial safety net. Additionally, fostering a culture of open communication where employees feel safe to voice concerns without fear of repercussions is essential.
Companies could also consider offering resilience training and mindfulness programs to equip staff with practical tools for stress management. Flexible working arrangements and clear boundaries between work and personal time can significantly contribute to reducing stress levels. Moreover, regular workload assessments and fair distribution of tasks can prevent burnout.
Lastly, leading by example is crucial – when senior management prioritizes their own well-being and encourages a healthy work-life balance, it sets a powerful precedent for the entire organization.”
Examiner: In your opinion, is it more important for leaders to appear confident or to show vulnerability?
Band 6-7 answer:
“I believe it’s important for leaders to show both confidence and vulnerability. Confidence is necessary to inspire and motivate team members, especially during challenging times. However, showing some vulnerability can make leaders more relatable and approachable. It’s about finding the right balance between the two, depending on the situation.”
Band 8-9 answer:
“The dichotomy between projecting confidence and displaying vulnerability in leadership is a nuanced issue that deserves careful consideration. While unwavering confidence can inspire trust and motivate teams, particularly in times of crisis, I believe that judicious displays of vulnerability can actually enhance a leader’s effectiveness and authenticity.
Confidence in a leader’s vision and abilities is undoubtedly crucial for galvanizing support and driving initiatives forward. It provides a sense of security and direction to team members, especially when facing uncertainties or challenges.
However, the modern understanding of effective leadership has evolved to recognize the power of vulnerability. When leaders acknowledge their own limitations, seek input from others, and demonstrate emotional intelligence, they create an environment of psychological safety that encourages innovation, honest feedback, and stronger team cohesion.
The key lies in striking a delicate balance. Leaders should aim to project confidence in their overall vision and decision-making capabilities while being open about specific challenges or areas where they need support. This approach not only humanizes leaders but also fosters a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the organization.
Ultimately, the most effective leaders are those who can seamlessly integrate both qualities, knowing when to project strength and when to show vulnerability, thereby creating a leadership style that is both inspiring and relatable.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
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Overwhelmed with nervousness (phrase) – /ˌəʊvəˈwelmd wɪð ˈnɜːvəsnəs/ – Feeling extremely anxious or worried
Example: “Before my presentation, I was overwhelmed with nervousness.” -
Navigate (verb) – /ˈnævɪɡeɪt/ – To find a way through a difficult situation
Example: “She skillfully navigated the challenging interview questions.” -
Adeptly (adverb) – /əˈdeptli/ – In a skillful or expert manner
Example: “He adeptly handled the unexpected technical issues during his speech.” -
Palpable (adjective) – /ˈpælpəbl/ – So intense as to seem almost tangible
Example: “The tension in the room was palpable as we waited for the results.” -
Immerse oneself (phrasal verb) – /ɪˈmɜːs wʌnˈself/ – To involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest
Example: “To prepare for the debate, I immersed myself in research on the topic.” -
Enlisted the help (phrase) – /ɪnˈlɪstɪd ðə help/ – Asked for assistance or support
Example: “I enlisted the help of a tutor to improve my writing skills.” -
Exhilarating (adjective) – /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ/ – Making one feel very happy, animated, or elated
Example: “The success of the project was an exhilarating experience for the whole team.” -
Rise to the occasion (idiom) – /raɪz tuː ði əˈkeɪʒn/ – To show that you can deal with a difficult situation successfully
Example: “Despite her initial nerves, she rose to the occasion and delivered a fantastic speech.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing nervous experiences:
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Vocabulary: Use a wide range of vocabulary related to emotions and experiences. Include idiomatic expressions and phrasal verbs where appropriate.
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Fluency: Practice speaking at length about your experiences. Aim to speak for the full 2 minutes in Part 2 without long pauses or repetitions.
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Coherence: Structure your answer logically, using discourse markers to connect your ideas smoothly.
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Pronunciation: Pay attention to word stress and intonation, particularly when expressing emotions or emphasizing key points.
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Grammar: Use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Incorporate conditional sentences when discussing hypothetical situations.
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Detail and Examples: Provide specific details and personal examples to illustrate your points, making your answer more engaging and authentic.
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Reflection: In Part 3, demonstrate your ability to analyze topics deeply by considering different perspectives and implications.
Remember, the key to success is regular practice. Record yourself speaking on various topics and listen back to identify areas for improvement. Seek feedback from English speakers or tutors to refine your skills further.