What Do Managers Really Do? Navigating IELTS Speaking Topics on Work and Responsibility

As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve encountered countless students grappling with the Speaking section, particularly when the topic veers towards work and responsibility. One common theme that often surfaces is the role of managers. “What do managers really do?” is a question I hear frequently, often laced with a hint of apprehension. This isn’t surprising, as discussing professional roles effectively in a foreign language can be challenging. This article aims to demystify the topic of managers in the IELTS Speaking test, providing you with the vocabulary and strategies to confidently tackle any related questions.

Understanding the Significance: Why “Managers” Matter in IELTS Speaking

The IELTS Speaking test assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English across a range of everyday situations. Topics like work, careers, and leadership are frequently explored as they offer insights into your:

• Lexical Resource (Vocabulary): Demonstrating a broad range of vocabulary related to management roles, responsibilities, and skills.
• Fluency and Coherence: Discussing a topic in a structured and logical manner, connecting your ideas smoothly.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Using a variety of grammatical structures accurately while discussing the complexities of management.
• Pronunciation: Speaking clearly and understandably, ensuring your ideas about managers and their work are communicated effectively.

Breaking Down the Role: What Do Managers Do?

A manager’s role can vary greatly depending on the industry, company size, and specific responsibilities. However, some core functions remain consistent. When approaching this topic in your IELTS Speaking test, consider these key areas:

1. Planning and Strategy:

• Setting goals and objectives for their team or department.
• Developing strategies to achieve these goals.
• Allocating resources effectively (budget, time, personnel).
• Example: “A key part of a manager’s role is to set clear and achievable goals. They need to analyze the market, identify opportunities, and translate those into actionable steps for their team.”

2. Organizing and Coordinating:

• Structuring tasks and assigning them to team members based on skills.
• Delegating responsibilities effectively.
• Facilitating communication and collaboration within the team.
• Example: “Effective delegation is crucial for a manager. They can’t do everything themselves, so they need to identify the strengths of their team members and assign tasks accordingly.”

3. Leading and Motivating:

• Providing direction and guidance to the team.
• Inspiring and motivating team members to perform at their best.
• Providing constructive feedback and support for development.
• Example: “A good manager isn’t just about giving orders. They need to be able to motivate their team, build morale, and create a positive work environment.”

4. Controlling and Monitoring Performance:

• Setting performance standards and tracking progress towards goals.
• Identifying and addressing performance issues promptly.
• Analyzing data to make informed decisions.
• Example: “Regular performance reviews are an important part of a manager’s job. It’s a chance to provide feedback, address any concerns, and ensure everyone is on track to meet their targets.”

manager leading team

Demonstrating Your Knowledge in the IELTS Speaking Test

Let’s consider how these concepts might appear in your IELTS Speaking test:

• Part 1: You might be asked about your own work experience, particularly if you’ve had managerial roles or worked closely with managers.

  • Example Question: “Do you have any experience working with a manager? What qualities do you think make a good manager?”

• Part 2: You might be asked to describe a successful manager you know, explaining their qualities and impact.

  • Example Cue Card: Describe a manager you admire. You should say:
    • Who this person is
    • How you know them
    • What their responsibilities are
    • And explain why you admire them.

• Part 3: The discussion might broaden to explore more abstract themes related to leadership, teamwork, and the challenges faced by managers in today’s workplace.

  • Example Question: “Some people believe that managers are born, not made. What’s your opinion?”

Tips for Success:

• Expand your vocabulary: Familiarize yourself with a range of verbs, adjectives, and idioms related to management (e.g., delegate, supervise, motivate, inspire, strategic thinker, problem-solver, effective communicator).
• Structure your responses: Use clear topic sentences, provide supporting details, and connect your ideas logically using transition words and phrases.
• Practice speaking: Record yourself responding to sample IELTS Speaking questions about work and management. This will help you identify areas for improvement and boost your confidence.

Remember, the key is to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively on a range of topics. By understanding the nuances of “what managers really do” and equipping yourself with relevant vocabulary and examples, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in your IELTS Speaking test.