The topic of job security versus salary is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on an analysis of past exam questions and trends, this topic has appeared frequently and is likely to continue being a popular subject in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has been seen in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that job security is more important than a high salary. Others believe that a high salary is more important than job security. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the importance of job security
- Discuss the importance of a high salary
- Present and justify their own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores to understand how to approach this topic effectively.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In today’s competitive job market, the debate between prioritizing job security or a high salary is increasingly relevant. While both aspects are undeniably important, I believe that job security should take precedence over a high salary in most cases.
Those who advocate for job security argue that it provides stability and peace of mind, which are crucial for long-term personal and professional development. A secure job allows individuals to plan for the future, invest in their skills, and maintain a balanced lifestyle without the constant fear of unemployment. Moreover, job security often correlates with better mental health and overall life satisfaction, as it reduces stress and anxiety associated with financial uncertainty.
On the other hand, proponents of high salaries contend that earning more money offers greater freedom and opportunities. A higher income can lead to improved living standards, better access to healthcare and education, and the ability to save for retirement or unexpected expenses. Additionally, some argue that a high salary is a reflection of one’s skills and value in the job market, potentially leading to increased job satisfaction and motivation.
While both arguments have merit, I believe that job security is more crucial in the long run. A stable job, even with a moderate salary, provides a foundation for consistent career growth and skill development. It allows individuals to build professional networks, gain experience, and potentially advance to higher-paying positions within the same organization. Furthermore, in times of economic uncertainty, those with secure jobs are better positioned to weather financial storms and maintain their quality of life.
That being said, the ideal scenario would be to find a balance between job security and a competitive salary. As the job market evolves, individuals should focus on developing in-demand skills and adaptability, which can enhance both their job security and earning potential. Employers, too, should recognize the value of offering both job security and fair compensation to attract and retain talented employees.
In conclusion, while a high salary is undoubtedly attractive, the benefits of job security – including stability, peace of mind, and long-term career development opportunities – make it a more valuable asset in today’s unpredictable job market. Ultimately, individuals should strive to find roles that offer a reasonable balance between security and compensation to ensure both immediate financial needs and long-term career goals are met.
Job security vs high salary comparison chart
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In today’s world, people have different opinions about what is more important in a job: security or a high salary. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, and I will discuss them in this essay.
Some people think job security is more important than a high salary. They believe that having a stable job gives them peace of mind and helps them plan for the future. When you have job security, you don’t have to worry about losing your job suddenly, which can be very stressful. Also, a secure job often comes with benefits like health insurance and retirement plans, which are important for long-term well-being.
On the other hand, others argue that a high salary is more important. They say that earning more money gives you more freedom to do what you want in life. With a high salary, you can afford a better lifestyle, save more money for the future, and have more opportunities to travel or pursue hobbies. Some people also feel that a high salary shows that their skills are valued, which can make them feel more satisfied with their work.
In my opinion, both job security and a high salary are important, but I think job security is slightly more important. While a high salary can provide immediate benefits, job security offers more long-term advantages. With a secure job, you can gain experience, build your skills, and potentially earn more money over time. Also, in times of economic uncertainty, having a stable job can be very valuable.
However, I believe the best situation is to have both job security and a good salary. People should try to find jobs that offer a balance between these two things. They should also focus on improving their skills to increase both their job security and their chances of earning a higher salary.
In conclusion, while both job security and a high salary are important factors to consider in a job, I believe that job security is slightly more crucial for long-term success and well-being. Ideally, people should aim for a balance between the two in their careers.
Balancing job security and salary on a scale
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
In today’s world, people have different ideas about what is more important in a job. Some think job security is better, while others prefer a high salary. I will talk about both views and give my opinion.
People who like job security say it’s good because it makes you feel safe. When you have a secure job, you don’t worry about losing it. This is good for your mind and helps you plan your life better. Also, secure jobs often give you things like health insurance, which is important.
But other people think a high salary is more important. They say that when you earn more money, you can buy more things and have a better life. You can also save money for the future or spend it on things you like, like traveling. Some people feel happy when they get a high salary because it shows their work is valued.
I think both job security and high salary are important, but job security is a bit more important. This is because when you have a secure job, you can learn more and get better at your work. Over time, this can help you earn more money. Also, when the economy is bad, having a secure job is very helpful.
But I also think it’s best to have both job security and a good salary. People should try to find jobs that give them both these things. They should also try to learn new skills to make their jobs more secure and to earn more money.
In conclusion, while both job security and high salary are important in a job, I believe job security is slightly more important for a good future. The best thing is to try to have both in your job.
Career growth and development illustration
Explaining the Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Presents a clear position throughout the essay
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
- Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Ideas are coherent and there is clear progression throughout
- Uses cohesion in such a way that it attracts no attention
- Demonstrates awareness of style and tone
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a relevant position, although conclusions may become unclear or repetitive
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task with some evidence of style and collocation
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Arranges information and ideas coherently and there is a clear overall progression
- Uses cohesive devices effectively, but cohesion within and/or between sentences may be faulty or mechanical
- May have occasional errors in word choice, spelling, and/or word formation
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but the development is not always clear
- Uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task
- May make noticeable errors in spelling and/or word formation that may cause some difficulty for the reader
- Uses only a limited range of structures with only rare use of subordinate clauses
- Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression
- Makes inadequate, inaccurate or over-use of cohesive devices
- May be repetitive due to lack of referencing and substitution
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Job security (noun) – /dʒɒb sɪˈkjʊərəti/ – the assurance that you will be able to keep your job
- Prioritize (verb) – /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/ – to decide which of a group of things are the most important
- Competitive (adjective) – /kəmˈpetətɪv/ – involving competition or striving to be better than others
- Advocate (verb) – /ˈædvəkeɪt/ – to publicly support or recommend a particular cause or policy
- Proponent (noun) – /prəˈpəʊnənt/ – a person who advocates for or supports something
- Contend (verb) – /kənˈtend/ – to assert something as a position in an argument
- Merit (noun) – /ˈmerɪt/ – the quality of being particularly good or worthy
- Adaptability (noun) – /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being able to adjust to new conditions
- Unpredictable (adjective) – /ˌʌnprɪˈdɪktəbl/ – not able to be foreseen or known beforehand
- Crucial (adjective) – /ˈkruːʃl/ – of great importance; decisive or critical
In conclusion, the debate between job security and high salary is a complex one that requires careful consideration of various factors. While both aspects are important, job security often provides a more stable foundation for long-term career growth and personal well-being. As you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2, consider practicing with similar topics that explore work-life balance, career choices, and employment trends. Remember to always address all parts of the question, provide clear examples, and express your opinion thoughtfully. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further discussion.
