The topic of whether companies should invest more in employee training is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends and historical data from past exams, this subject has a high probability of appearing in future tests. Let’s examine a specific question related to this topic and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Some people think that companies should provide workers with job-related training. Others believe that individuals should be responsible for their own job training. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires us to:
- Discuss the view that companies should provide job-related training
- Discuss the view that individuals should be responsible for their own training
- Give our own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all three points in your essay to achieve a high score.
Band 8 Sample Essay
Here’s a sample essay that would likely score a Band 8:
In today’s rapidly evolving job market, the question of who should bear the responsibility for employee training is a subject of much debate. While some argue that companies should provide job-related training, others believe that individuals should take charge of their own professional development. In my opinion, a balanced approach involving both parties is the most effective solution.
Those who advocate for company-provided training argue that it benefits both the organization and its employees. Businesses that invest in their workforce often see increased productivity, improved employee retention, and enhanced competitiveness in the market. For instance, when a company introduces new technology or processes, it is in their best interest to ensure that all employees are proficient in using them. This not only streamlines operations but also reduces the likelihood of errors and inefficiencies. Moreover, company-sponsored training programs can foster a sense of loyalty among employees, as they feel valued and supported in their professional growth.
Company Providing Training to Employees
On the other hand, proponents of individual responsibility for training argue that it promotes self-reliance and adaptability. In an era where job security is no longer guaranteed, employees who take initiative in upgrading their skills are better positioned to navigate career changes and seize new opportunities. This approach encourages a mindset of lifelong learning and personal accountability. Additionally, individuals who invest in their own training often have a broader skill set that extends beyond their current job requirements, making them more versatile and employable in the long run.
Individual Taking Online Course for Self-Improvement
In my view, the most effective approach is a collaborative effort between companies and individuals. While companies should provide job-specific training and create a culture that supports continuous learning, employees should also take proactive steps to enhance their skills and stay relevant in their field. This synergy ensures that both immediate job requirements and long-term career aspirations are addressed. For example, a company might offer workshops on industry-specific software, while employees could pursue additional certifications or attend conferences in their spare time.
In conclusion, the responsibility for job training should be shared between companies and individuals. This balanced approach not only meets the immediate needs of the organization but also empowers employees to take charge of their professional development, resulting in a more skilled, adaptable, and motivated workforce.
(Word count: 373)
Explanation of Band 8 Score
This essay would likely receive a Band 8 score for the following reasons:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position throughout.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with flexibility and precision. Less common lexical items are used with skill.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used accurately. There are no noticeable errors, and the writing demonstrates control and flexibility.
Band 6 Sample Essay
Here’s a sample essay that would likely score a Band 6:
In the modern workplace, there is a debate about who should be responsible for providing job training. Some people think companies should give workers training related to their jobs, while others believe individuals should take care of their own training. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
There are good reasons why companies should provide job training. Firstly, when companies train their workers, it helps the business run better. For example, if a company buys new machines, they need to teach workers how to use them properly. This can make the work faster and reduce mistakes. Also, when companies offer training, it can make workers feel more valued and want to stay with the company longer.
Workers Attending a Training Session
On the other hand, some people think workers should be responsible for their own training. This is because the job market is always changing, and people might need to learn new skills to find different jobs. If workers learn on their own, they can choose what skills they want to improve. This can help them in their current job and also prepare them for future jobs they might want.
In my opinion, I think both companies and workers should be involved in job training. Companies should provide training for specific job skills that are needed right now. But workers should also try to learn new things on their own to improve their skills and be ready for future opportunities. This way, both the company and the worker can benefit.
In conclusion, while companies and individuals both have good reasons to be responsible for job training, I believe a mix of both approaches is best. This can help create a workforce that is both skilled for current jobs and prepared for future changes.
(Word count: 295)
Explanation of Band 6 Score
This essay would likely receive a Band 6 score for the following reasons:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but some aspects are dealt with more fully than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some paragraphs are not fully developed. Basic cohesive devices are used, but they may be repetitive.
- Lexical Resource: An adequate range of vocabulary is used for the task. There are attempts to use less common vocabulary, but with some inaccuracy.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Job-related training (noun phrase) – /dʒɒb rɪˈleɪtɪd ˈtreɪnɪŋ/ – Training specific to a particular job or profession
- Professional development (noun phrase) – /prəˈfeʃənl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – The process of improving and increasing capabilities through access to education and training opportunities
- Employee retention (noun phrase) – /ɪmˈplɔɪiː rɪˈtenʃn/ – The ability of an organization to keep its employees
- Competitiveness (noun) – /kəmˈpetɪtɪvnəs/ – The quality of being as good as or better than others of a comparable nature
- Self-reliance (noun) – /ˌselfˈrɪlaɪəns/ – Reliance on one’s own powers and resources rather than those of others
- Adaptability (noun) – /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/ – The quality of being able to adjust to new conditions
- Lifelong learning (noun phrase) – /ˌlaɪflɒŋ ˈlɜːrnɪŋ/ – The ongoing, voluntary, and self-motivated pursuit of knowledge
- Synergy (noun) – /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – The interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects
- Proactive (adjective) – /prəʊˈæktɪv/ – Creating or controlling a situation by causing something to happen rather than responding to it after it has happened
- Versatile (adjective) – /ˈvɜːrsətaɪl/ – Able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities
In conclusion, the topic of employee training investment is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as the role of technology in workplace training, the impact of remote work on professional development, or the balance between technical skills and soft skills in employee training programs. We encourage you to write your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and further discussion. This active practice will significantly enhance your writing skills for the IELTS exam.
To further explore related topics, you might find these articles interesting:
- The importance of functional training in the modern workplace
- How automation is reshaping the service industry
- The importance of AI ethics in protecting jobs
These resources can provide additional context and vocabulary to enrich your understanding of workplace dynamics and technological influences on employment, which are often related to the topic of employee training.