As an IELTS instructor with over two decades of experience, I often encounter students perplexed by the Speaking test. Many find themselves worrying about encountering unfamiliar topics. One such topic that often arises is “what managers really do.” While it may seem daunting, understanding this theme and mastering relevant vocabulary can significantly boost your IELTS Speaking score.

The Significance of Discussing “Management” in IELTS

The IELTS exam assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English across various situations. Topics like “management” are common because they reflect real-life scenarios and require you to:

• Demonstrate vocabulary range: Using specific terms like “delegation,” “motivation,” “conflict resolution,” and “strategic planning” showcases your vocabulary breadth.
• Express abstract ideas: Discussing management principles and their impact requires articulating complex concepts clearly.
• Provide relevant examples: Sharing personal experiences or drawing from general knowledge about effective or ineffective management demonstrates your ability to connect ideas.

Mastering the Language of “Management”

To excel in discussing this topic, familiarize yourself with key concepts and vocabulary:

1. Roles and Responsibilities

• Planning & Strategy: Setting goals, outlining steps, allocating resources – “Managers establish a clear vision and develop strategies to achieve organizational objectives.”
• Organizing: Structuring tasks, assigning roles, coordinating efforts – “Effective managers excel at organizing teams and resources to maximize efficiency.”
• Leading & Motivating: Inspiring teams, fostering collaboration, resolving conflicts – “A key managerial skill is motivating employees to perform at their best.”
• Controlling & Evaluating: Monitoring progress, measuring performance, implementing corrective actions – “Managers regularly evaluate outcomes and adjust strategies based on data and feedback.”

2. Essential Skills

• Communication: Clearly conveying information, active listening, providing feedback.
• Problem-solving: Identifying challenges, analyzing situations, finding solutions.
• Decision-making: Weighing options, assessing risks, making informed choices.
• Adaptability: Responding to change, embracing new ideas, adjusting strategies.

manager skills chart

Applying Your Knowledge: IELTS Speaking Test Examples

Let’s look at how these concepts might appear in the IELTS Speaking test:

Part 1:

• “Do you think good managers are born or made?”
• “What qualities do you think are important for a manager to have?”

Part 2:

• “Describe a time you witnessed effective (or ineffective) management.”
• “Discuss the challenges and rewards of being in a management position.”

Part 3:

• “How has the role of a manager changed in recent years?”
• “What skills do you think will be essential for managers in the future?”

Tips for Success

• Expand your vocabulary: Regularly read articles, books, or blogs about business and management to learn new terms and concepts.
• Practice speaking: Engage in discussions about management topics with friends, colleagues, or language partners.
• Record yourself: Listen back to your practice sessions to identify areas for improvement in fluency and vocabulary usage.
• Think critically: Develop your own opinions about effective management practices and be prepared to support your views with examples.

Remember, the IELTS Speaking test is not about memorizing answers but demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively. By building a strong foundation in management-related vocabulary and practicing your speaking skills, you can confidently tackle any questions that come your way and achieve your desired IELTS score.