Telemarketing regulations have become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms across test centers globally. Based on analysis of past papers, this topic has appeared 3-4 times annually since 2019, particularly in Asian test centers. Let’s examine a recent question that has appeared in actual tests:
Some people think that there should be stricter regulations on telemarketing calls and messages. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Question Analysis
This is an agree/disagree essay that requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on telemarketing regulations
- Provide specific reasons and examples
- Maintain a formal academic tone
- Present a balanced argument with proper reasoning
Band 8.5 Model Answer
Telemarketing has become increasingly intrusive in people’s daily lives, and I strongly agree that stricter regulations should be implemented to control these unsolicited communications.
Firstly, unrestricted telemarketing poses significant privacy concerns. Many individuals receive multiple unsolicited calls daily, often during inconvenient hours, disrupting their work and personal time. For instance, in India, despite existing regulations, citizens report receiving an average of 5-7 marketing calls daily, causing considerable annoyance and stress. Stricter rules regarding calling hours and frequency would help protect people’s right to privacy and peaceful living.
Moreover, telemarketing can be a vehicle for fraud and scams. Without robust regulations, vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly, become easy targets for deceptive marketing practices. In Australia, telecommunications fraud through marketing calls resulted in approximately $48 million in losses in 2022 alone. Enhanced regulations requiring proper company identification and call recording would significantly reduce such fraudulent activities.
However, while implementing stricter regulations, it’s crucial to maintain a balance that doesn’t completely stifle legitimate business communications. Companies should still be allowed to reach potential customers, but within well-defined parameters. This could include maintaining “do not call” registries, requiring explicit consent before making calls, and limiting contact frequency.
In conclusion, while recognizing the commercial importance of telemarketing, I firmly believe that stricter regulations are necessary to protect consumer rights and privacy in our increasingly connected world.
Band 7.5 Model Answer
I agree that there should be stricter regulations on telemarketing calls and messages, as they often cause inconvenience and pose potential risks to consumers.
One main reason for supporting stricter regulations is that telemarketing calls frequently interrupt people during important activities. Many people receive these calls during work hours or family time, which can be very disturbing. For example, in many Asian countries, telemarketers call multiple times per day, even during lunch breaks or late evenings, causing significant disruption to daily routines.
Additionally, telemarketing calls can be dangerous because some are actually scams. Without proper regulations, criminals can easily pretend to be legitimate businesses and trick people into giving away personal information or money. Statistics show that phone scams have increased by 30% in the past five years in many countries.
On the other hand, we must consider that telemarketing is a legitimate business practice that helps companies reach potential customers. However, this can still be achieved with better regulations. Companies could be required to only call during specific hours and maintain clear records of customer consent.
In conclusion, while telemarketing serves a business purpose, stricter regulations are necessary to protect consumers from harassment and fraud while allowing legitimate business communications to continue in a more controlled manner.
Band 6 Model Answer
I agree that telemarketing calls and messages should have more strict rules because they create many problems for people.
First, telemarketing calls are very annoying. People get many calls every day when they are busy or resting. For example, I get about 3-4 calls every day from different companies trying to sell things. These calls make me feel angry because they waste my time.
Second, some telemarketing calls are dangerous. Bad people use these calls to cheat others and steal their money. Old people often become victims because they trust these callers. This is very bad and we need better rules to stop it.
Also, these calls and messages use up our phone battery and storage space. Many people have to delete lots of marketing messages every day. This is not good for busy people who need their phones for important things.
In conclusion, I think the government should make stronger rules about telemarketing because it causes problems for many people. Companies should not be allowed to disturb people whenever they want.
Key Vocabulary
- Intrusive (adj) /ɪnˈtruːsɪv/ – causing disruption or annoyance through being unwelcome or uninvited
- Unsolicited (adj) /ˌʌnsəˈlɪsɪtɪd/ – not asked for; given or done voluntarily
- Fraudulent (adj) /ˈfrɔːdjʊlənt/ – obtained, done by, or involving deception
- Stifle (v) /ˈstaɪfəl/ – prevent or constrain
- Parameters (n) /pəˈræmɪtəz/ – limits or boundaries
- Legitimate (adj) /lɪˈdʒɪtɪmət/ – conforming to the law or rules
- Explicit (adj) /ɪkˈsplɪsɪt/ – clearly expressed or defined
To practice this topic, try writing your own essay about other aspects of telemarketing regulation, such as:
- Should there be complete bans on telemarketing during certain hours?
- Should companies face higher penalties for violating telemarketing rules?
- Should all telemarketing calls require prior written consent?
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.