The topic of creating inclusive job markets has been increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams in recent years. This trend is likely to continue, given the growing global focus on workplace diversity and equal opportunities. In this article, we’ll explore a sample question on this subject and provide two model essays along with detailed analysis to help you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2.

Analyzing the Question

Let’s begin by examining a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:

Some people believe that creating inclusive job markets should be the responsibility of governments, while others argue that it’s primarily the duty of businesses. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question falls under the “discuss both views and give your opinion” category, which is a common format in IELTS Writing Task 2. It requires you to:

1. Explain why some people think governments should be responsible for creating inclusive job markets
2. Discuss why others believe businesses should take on this responsibility
3. Present your own perspective on the issue

Now, let’s look at two sample essays addressing this question, one targeting a Band 8-9 score and another for a Band 6-7 score.

Inclusive Job Markets

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

The debate over who should bear the primary responsibility for fostering inclusive job markets – governments or businesses – is a complex one with valid arguments on both sides. While I believe that a collaborative approach is ultimately necessary, I contend that governments should take the lead in this crucial endeavor.

Those who argue for governmental responsibility often point to the broader societal impact of inclusive job markets. Governments have the unique power to enact and enforce anti-discrimination laws, set quotas for underrepresented groups, and implement nationwide education and training programs to equip marginalized communities with the skills needed to compete in the job market. Moreover, governments can offer tax incentives to businesses that prioritize diversity and inclusion, thus creating a systemic motivation for change.

On the other hand, proponents of business-led initiatives argue that companies are better positioned to understand and address the specific needs of their industries. Businesses can implement targeted recruitment strategies, establish mentorship programs, and create inclusive workplace cultures that foster diversity from within. Additionally, companies can often move more quickly and flexibly than government bureaucracies, allowing for rapid adaptation to changing societal needs.

In my view, while both parties have crucial roles to play, governments should take the primary responsibility for creating inclusive job markets. This is because governments have the overarching authority to set the legal and policy framework within which businesses operate. By establishing clear guidelines and incentives, governments can create an environment where inclusive practices become the norm rather than the exception.

Furthermore, governments are uniquely positioned to address systemic inequalities that extend beyond the workplace. By investing in education, healthcare, and social services, governments can help level the playing field and ensure that all members of society have the opportunity to participate fully in the job market.

In conclusion, while businesses undoubtedly have an important role in fostering workplace inclusivity, the primary responsibility for creating truly inclusive job markets should rest with governments. Only through comprehensive, nationwide policies and programs can we hope to achieve lasting change and create a more equitable society for all.

(308 words)

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

The question of who should be responsible for creating inclusive job markets is an important one. Some people think it’s the government’s job, while others believe businesses should do it. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

Those who think governments should be responsible for inclusive job markets have some good reasons. Governments can make laws that stop discrimination in hiring. They can also create training programs to help people from different backgrounds get the skills they need for jobs. Additionally, governments can give money to companies that hire diverse workers.

On the other hand, some people argue that businesses should take the lead in creating inclusive job markets. Companies know what skills they need and can make sure they hire people from different backgrounds. They can also create a workplace culture that welcomes everyone. Businesses can act faster than governments to make changes.

In my opinion, both governments and businesses have important roles to play in creating inclusive job markets. Governments should set the rules and provide support, while businesses should implement inclusive practices in their daily operations. Working together, they can create more opportunities for everyone.

For example, the government could set targets for diversity in different industries. Then, businesses could work to meet these targets by changing their hiring practices and creating mentoring programs. This way, both sides contribute to making job markets more inclusive.

In conclusion, I believe that creating inclusive job markets is a shared responsibility between governments and businesses. While governments should provide the framework and support, businesses must actively implement inclusive practices. By working together, we can create a fairer job market for all people.

(263 words)

Key Considerations When Writing About This Topic

When addressing the topic of creating inclusive job markets in your IELTS Writing Task 2 essay, keep the following points in mind:

1. Vocabulary: Use a range of relevant vocabulary related to employment, diversity, and inclusion. For example:

   • Band 8-9: marginalized communities, systemic motivation, targeted recruitment strategies, overarching authority
   • Band 6-7: discrimination, diverse workers, workplace culture, mentoring programs

2. Grammar: Employ a variety of sentence structures and tenses to demonstrate your language proficiency. For instance:

   • Band 8-9: “By establishing clear guidelines and incentives, governments can create an environment where inclusive practices become the norm rather than the exception.”
   • Band 6-7: “Working together, they can create more opportunities for everyone.”

3. Structure: Ensure your essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, and a conclusion that summarizes your opinion.

4. Coherence and Cohesion: Use linking words and phrases to connect your ideas smoothly. Examples include “moreover,” “additionally,” “on the other hand,” and “in conclusion.”

5. Task Response: Address all parts of the question, including discussing both views and giving your own opinion.

Challenging Vocabulary to Remember

1. Inclusive (adjective) /ɪnˈkluːsɪv/: Not excluding any section of society or any party involved in something.

2. Marginalized (adjective) /ˈmɑːrdʒɪnəlaɪzd/: Treated as insignificant or peripheral.

3. Incentive (noun) /ɪnˈsentɪv/: A thing that motivates or encourages someone to do something.

4. Systemic (adjective) /sɪˈstemɪk/: Relating to a system, especially as opposed to a particular part.

5. Bureaucracy (noun) /bjʊəˈrɒkrəsi/: A system of government in which most of the important decisions are made by state officials rather than by elected representatives.

6. Equitable (adjective) /ˈekwɪtəbl/: Fair and impartial.

7. Mentorship (noun) /ˈmentɔːʃɪp/: The guidance provided by a mentor, especially an experienced person in a company or educational institution.

8. Quota (noun) /ˈkwəʊtə/: A fixed minimum or maximum number of a particular group of people allowed to do something.

Conclusion

Creating inclusive job markets is a crucial topic that is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. By understanding the key aspects of this issue and practicing your essay writing skills, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle similar questions in your test.

To further enhance your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic or related subjects such as the effects of automation on job markets or the impacts of AI on global labor markets. You can share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with other learners. Remember, consistent practice is key to improving your IELTS Writing skills!