Discussing future career aspirations is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. The question “Describe An Interesting Job That You Would Like To Try In The Future” frequently appears in Part 2, allowing candidates to showcase their language skills while sharing personal ambitions. This topic’s popularity stems from its relevance to candidates’ lives and its potential to elicit diverse responses. Let’s explore how to excel in answering this question across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about your current job or career plans. Here are some possible questions with sample answers:
- What do you do for a living?
- Are you happy with your current job?
- What kind of job would you like to have in the future?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Currently, I’m working as a software developer at a tech startup. While I enjoy the challenges of my role, I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of becoming a marine biologist in the future. The prospect of studying ocean ecosystems and contributing to marine conservation efforts really appeals to me.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe an interesting job that you would like to try in the future
You should say:
- What the job is
- How you learned about this job
- What qualities are required for this job
- And explain why you would like to try this job
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“The interesting job I’d like to try in the future is that of a space tourism coordinator. I first learned about this emerging career opportunity through a documentary on the future of space travel and its potential impact on the tourism industry.
This job requires a unique blend of skills and qualities. Firstly, a strong background in aerospace engineering or astronomy would be essential to understand the technical aspects of space travel. Secondly, excellent communication and interpersonal skills are crucial, as the role involves interacting with diverse groups of people, from scientists to wealthy tourists. Additionally, one must possess exceptional problem-solving abilities and remain calm under pressure, given the high-stakes nature of space travel.
The reason I’m drawn to this job is its perfect fusion of my passion for space exploration and my interest in creating unforgettable experiences for others. The idea of helping people fulfill their lifelong dreams of visiting space is incredibly exciting. Moreover, being at the forefront of this groundbreaking industry would allow me to contribute to the advancement of human knowledge and push the boundaries of what’s possible in travel and tourism.
Ultimately, what makes this job so appealing is the opportunity to be part of something truly revolutionary. It’s not just about organizing trips; it’s about opening up a whole new frontier for human exploration and adventure. The chance to play a role in shaping the future of travel and potentially inspiring the next generation of scientists and explorers is what really captivates me about this unique career path.”
Space Tourism Coordinator as a Future Job
Follow-up questions:
- What challenges do you think you might face in this job?
- How do you think this job might evolve in the next 10 years?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The primary challenges in this role would likely revolve around ensuring passenger safety and managing the immense logistical complexities of space travel. Additionally, navigating the regulatory landscape of this new industry could be quite demanding.
Looking ahead, I believe this job will evolve significantly as space tourism becomes more accessible. We might see specializations emerge, such as low-orbit experience designers or lunar expedition planners. The role could also expand to include advocacy for sustainable space tourism practices, ensuring we explore space responsibly.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How do you think the job market will change in the next 20 years?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe the job market will undergo substantial transformations in the coming two decades. With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and automation, many traditional roles may become obsolete. However, this will likely give rise to entirely new career paths that we can’t even imagine today.
For instance, we might see an increase in jobs related to human-AI collaboration, where professionals work alongside advanced AI systems to solve complex problems. Additionally, as environmental concerns grow, there could be a surge in ‘green jobs’ focused on sustainable technologies and practices.
Another significant shift might be in the way we work, with remote and flexible arrangements becoming the norm rather than the exception. This could lead to more globalized job markets, where geographical boundaries become less relevant in hiring decisions.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The job market of the future is likely to be characterized by unprecedented dynamism and fluidity. As technology continues to evolve at an exponential rate, we’re bound to witness a paradigm shift in the nature of work itself.
One of the most significant changes I foresee is the blurring of lines between disciplines. Future jobs may require a more interdisciplinary approach, combining skills from various fields. For example, we might see roles like ‘Ethical AI Consultants’ emerging, which would require expertise in both computer science and philosophy.
Moreover, the concept of a ‘job for life’ may become increasingly rare. Instead, we might transition to a model of continuous learning and adaptation, where individuals regularly upskill and pivot their careers to remain relevant in a rapidly changing market.
The gig economy is also likely to expand, potentially giving rise to new forms of employment structures and social safety nets to support a more flexible workforce. This could lead to a reimagining of traditional concepts like retirement and career progression.
Ultimately, while these changes may seem daunting, they also present exciting opportunities for innovation and personal growth. The key to thriving in this future job market will likely be cultivating adaptability, creativity, and a passion for lifelong learning.”
Future Job Market with AI Collaboration
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
-
Paradigm shift [ˈpærədaɪm ʃɪft] (noun): A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions.
Example: “The rise of remote work represents a paradigm shift in how we view the workplace.” -
Interdisciplinary [ˌɪntərˈdɪsəpləneri] (adjective): Involving two or more academic disciplines.
Example: “Future careers will likely require an interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving.” -
To be at the forefront [ˈfɔːrfrʌnt] (phrase): To be in a leading or important position in an area of activity.
Example: “As a space tourism coordinator, I’d be at the forefront of an exciting new industry.” -
To appeal to [əˈpiːl] (verb): To be attractive or interesting to someone.
Example: “The idea of helping shape the future of travel really appeals to me.” -
Fusion [ˈfjuːʒn] (noun): The process of combining different things to create something new.
Example: “This job represents a perfect fusion of my interests in technology and exploration.”
Describe a piece of good news you heard about someone you know well can also be an interesting topic to practice for your IELTS Speaking test, as it allows you to demonstrate your ability to narrate events and express emotions.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing future job aspirations:
- Use a wide range of vocabulary, including less common words and phrases related to work and careers.
- Demonstrate your ability to speak at length by elaborating on your ideas and providing specific examples.
- Use a variety of grammatical structures, including complex sentences, to showcase your language proficiency.
- Maintain fluency by speaking confidently and naturally, without long pauses or hesitations.
- Show your ability to discuss abstract concepts, especially in Part 3, by considering broader implications and future trends.
Remember, practice is key to improving your speaking skills. Try to incorporate these strategies into your daily English conversations and describe a sport you have learned to play or other topics to enhance your overall fluency and confidence.
By following these guidelines and continuously expanding your vocabulary and knowledge base, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any job-related questions in your IELTS Speaking test and achieve the score you desire.
