Cultural diversity in global businesses is a topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and past exam questions, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to be a popular choice for future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has been featured in recent IELTS exams and analyze how to approach it effectively.
**Some people think that it is important for companies to hire employees from different countries, while others believe that companies should only employ workers from their own country. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.**
Analyzing the Question
This question directly addresses the importance of cultural diversity in promoting innovation within companies. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss the advantages of hiring employees from different countries
- Explain the benefits of employing workers only from the company’s home country
- Present their own opinion on the matter
Let’s examine three sample essays that tackle this question, each targeting a different band score.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In today’s globalized economy, the debate over whether companies should prioritize hiring international employees or focus solely on domestic talent has gained significant traction. While both approaches have their merits, I firmly believe that embracing a diverse, multinational workforce offers far greater benefits to businesses in the long run.
Proponents of hiring employees from different countries argue that this practice brings a wealth of diverse perspectives and experiences to the organization. This diversity can foster creativity and innovation, as individuals from various cultural backgrounds approach problems and challenges in unique ways. Moreover, international employees often possess valuable language skills and cultural knowledge that can help companies expand into new markets and better serve a global customer base. For instance, a Chinese employee working for a US-based company can provide invaluable insights into Chinese consumer behavior and business practices, potentially giving the company a competitive edge in the Chinese market.
On the other hand, those who advocate for employing workers exclusively from the company’s home country often cite concerns about cultural compatibility and communication barriers. They argue that a homogeneous workforce can lead to smoother operations, as employees share a common cultural background and language. Additionally, hiring locally can be seen as a way to support the domestic job market and contribute to the national economy. This approach may also reduce costs associated with relocation and visa sponsorship for international employees.
However, I contend that the benefits of a diverse, multinational workforce far outweigh these potential drawbacks. In an increasingly interconnected world, companies that embrace cultural diversity are better equipped to navigate the complexities of global markets and adapt to changing consumer needs. The importance of multilingualism in a globalized world cannot be overstated, as it enables effective communication with clients and partners across borders. Furthermore, exposure to different cultures within the workplace can enhance employees’ intercultural competence and global mindset, fostering a more inclusive and adaptable organizational culture.
In conclusion, while there are valid arguments for both approaches, I strongly believe that hiring employees from different countries is crucial for companies aiming to thrive in today’s global business landscape. The diverse perspectives, skills, and cultural knowledge that international employees bring to the table can drive innovation, facilitate global expansion, and create a more dynamic and resilient organization. As businesses continue to operate on an increasingly global scale, embracing cultural diversity in the workplace will become not just an advantage, but a necessity for long-term success.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of whether companies should hire employees from different countries or just from their own country is a complex issue. There are advantages and disadvantages to both approaches, and in this essay, I will discuss both views before giving my own opinion.
On one hand, hiring employees from different countries can bring many benefits to a company. Firstly, it can introduce new ideas and perspectives, which can lead to more creativity and innovation in the workplace. Secondly, international employees often have language skills and cultural knowledge that can help the company expand into new markets. For example, a Japanese employee working for a British company can help the company understand Japanese business culture and consumer preferences.
On the other hand, some people argue that companies should only hire workers from their own country. One reason for this is that it can be easier to manage a team of people who share the same cultural background and language. Additionally, hiring locally can help support the domestic job market and economy. Some also believe that local employees may be more loyal to the company and stay in their jobs longer.
In my opinion, while there are valid points on both sides, I believe that hiring employees from different countries is generally more beneficial for companies in today’s globalized world. The role of globalization in promoting economic development cannot be ignored, and companies that embrace diversity are often better positioned to succeed in the global marketplace. However, I think it’s important for companies to strike a balance and also continue to support local talent.
In conclusion, both approaches have their merits, but I believe that the advantages of hiring international employees outweigh the disadvantages in most cases. Companies should strive to create a diverse workforce that includes both local and international talent to maximize their potential for success in the global economy.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
In today’s world, companies have to decide if they should hire workers from different countries or just from their own country. This is an important question because it can affect how well the company does. In this essay, I will talk about both sides of this issue and give my opinion.
Some people think it’s good for companies to hire employees from different countries. This is because these workers can bring new ideas to the company. They also know about different cultures and can speak different languages. This can help the company do business in other countries. For example, if a company wants to sell things in China, having Chinese workers can help them understand how to do business there.
But other people think companies should only hire workers from their own country. They say this is better because all the workers will speak the same language and understand each other’s culture. This can make it easier to work together. Also, hiring people from the same country can help give jobs to local people, which is good for the country’s economy.
In my opinion, I think it’s better for companies to hire people from different countries. This is because the world is becoming more connected, and companies need to understand different cultures to be successful. Having workers from different countries can help a company be more creative and solve problems in new ways.
To conclude, while there are good reasons for both sides, I believe that hiring employees from different countries is better for most companies. It can help them grow and be more successful in the global market.
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic. It:
- Presents a clear and well-developed argument
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and effectively
- Employs a variety of complex sentence structures
- Organizes ideas coherently with clear progression throughout
- Addresses all parts of the task fully and presents a well-balanced discussion
Band 6-7 Essay:
This essay shows good writing skills but lacks some of the sophistication of the higher band essay. It:
- Presents a clear overall position and addresses all parts of the task
- Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with generally accurate usage
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Organizes information coherently but may lack some fluency in places
- Presents relevant main ideas but some may be inadequately developed
Band 5-6 Essay:
This essay demonstrates basic writing skills but has notable limitations. It:
- Addresses the task but may be repetitive or lack focus in places
- Uses limited vocabulary which may be repetitive or inappropriate at times
- Uses simple sentence forms with occasional attempts at complex structures
- Organizes ideas with some coherence but may lack overall progression
- Presents some main ideas but these are limited and may be unclear or repetitive
Key Vocabulary to Remember
-
Cultural diversity (noun) – the existence of a variety of cultural or ethnic groups within a society
/ˈkʌltʃərəl daɪˈvɜːrsɪti/ -
Globalized economy (noun phrase) – an economy characterized by worldwide integration and interdependence
/ˈɡləʊbəlaɪzd ɪˈkɒnəmi/ -
Multinational workforce (noun phrase) – employees from various countries working together in an organization
/mʌltiˈnæʃənl ˈwɜːrkfɔːrs/ -
Intercultural competence (noun phrase) – the ability to communicate effectively and appropriately with people from other cultures
/ˌɪntərˈkʌltʃərəl ˈkɒmpɪtəns/ -
Global mindset (noun phrase) – a way of thinking that allows one to operate effectively across cultural and national boundaries
/ˈɡləʊbl ˈmaɪndset/ -
Cultural compatibility (noun phrase) – the degree to which individuals from different cultures can work together harmoniously
/ˈkʌltʃərəl kəmˌpætəˈbɪlɪti/ -
Homogeneous workforce (noun phrase) – a group of employees who share similar backgrounds and characteristics
/həˈmɒdʒɪnɪəs ˈwɜːrkfɔːrs/ -
Innovation (noun) – the introduction of new ideas, methods, or products
/ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ -
Adaptable (adjective) – able to adjust to new conditions or circumstances
/əˈdæptəbl/ -
Resilient (adjective) – able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions
/rɪˈzɪliənt/
In conclusion, the topic of cultural diversity in global businesses is a crucial one for IELTS Writing Task 2. As we’ve seen from the sample essays, there are various approaches to answering this question, depending on your level of English proficiency and analytical skills. To further improve your writing skills, consider practicing with similar topics such as:
- The impact of globalization on local cultures
- The role of international experience in career development
- The challenges and benefits of managing a multicultural team
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you refine your skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam. Good luck with your preparation!