IELTS Essay Topics on Work and Employment: 30+ Questions

Quick Answer: IELTS writing Task 2 often features questions about work, careers, and employment. You'll find topics like job satisfaction, remote work, automation, unemployment, gender equality, and work-life balance. This guide covers 30+ real exam questions, band 7-9 sample answers, and key mistakes to avoid so you can write a high-scoring essay.

Table of Contents

30+ IELTS Essay Topics on Work and Employment

How to Write a High-Scoring Essay on Work and Employment

Band Score Comparison Table

Sample Answers for a Common Question

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Top Tips to Boost Your Band Score

Resources

FAQ

Key Takeaways

30+ IELTS Essay Topics on Work and Employment

Here are 30+ real and likely IELTS essay questions on work and employment, grouped by sub-theme. Use these to practice your essay structure and argumentation.

1. Job Satisfaction & Career Choice

Many people spend a large portion of their life at work. What factors contribute to job satisfaction? How can people achieve a fulfilling career?

Some young people choose to work in low-skilled, low-paid jobs while others aim for high-paying professions. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches.

Is it better to have a job that you enjoy but pays little, or a job that you dislike but pays well? Give reasons for your answer.

2. Technology & Automation

The use of robots and artificial intelligence in the workplace is increasing. What are the positive and negative effects on employment?

Many jobs are being replaced by automated processes. What jobs are most at risk? What can workers do to remain employable?

Some people believe that technology will create more jobs than it destroys. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

3. Unemployment & Government Role

Unemployment is a major problem in many countries. What are the causes of unemployment? What measures can governments take to reduce it?

Some people believe that the government should guarantee jobs for all citizens. Others think it is not the government’s responsibility. Discuss both views.

High levels of unemployment lead to social problems. How can governments and individuals address this issue?

4. Women in the Workplace

In many countries, women are still underrepresented in senior management positions. What are the reasons for this? What can be done to achieve gender equality at work?

Some people think that women should be given equal opportunities in the workplace, while others believe that traditional roles should be maintained. Discuss both sides.

The number of women working full-time has increased. How has this affected family life? Is it a positive or negative development?

5. Work-Life Balance

In many countries, employees work long hours. What are the reasons for this? What can employers do to promote a better work-life balance?

The rise of remote work has changed the way people balance their professional and personal lives. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

Some people believe that a shorter working week would benefit both employees and employers. Discuss the pros and cons.

6. Globalisation & Outsourcing

Many companies now outsource their manufacturing and services to other countries. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?

Globalisation has led to increased competition for jobs. Is this a positive or negative development for workers?

Some people argue that international companies should be required to hire local workers rather than bring in foreign labour. Do you agree or disagree?

7. Gig Economy & Self-Employment

More people are choosing to work as freelancers or in the gig economy rather than as permanent employees. What are the benefits and drawbacks?

Some people believe that companies should offer the same benefits and protections to gig workers as they do to full-time employees. To what extent do you agree?

The number of people working from home has increased rapidly. What are the effects on productivity and social interaction?

8. Youth & the Future of Work

Many young people find it difficult to get their first job. What are the causes? What can be done to improve youth employment?

The education system often fails to prepare students for the modern workplace. How can schools and universities better equip young people for future careers?

Some people believe that young adults should gain work experience before going to university. Do you agree or disagree?

9. Ageing Workforce & Retirement

The retirement age in many countries is rising. What are the advantages and disadvantages of people working longer?

Some older workers struggle to find employment because of age discrimination. How can companies and governments address this problem?

Should people be forced to retire at a certain age, or should they be allowed to work as long as they want?

10. Miscellaneous

Companies should provide employees with regular training and development opportunities. Do you agree or disagree?

Some people think that salaries should be based on the qualifications and experience of the employee, while others believe that performance should be the main factor. Discuss.

The gap between rich and poor is widening. What are the causes of income inequality in the workplace? How can it be reduced?

Use these questions to practice brainstorming, outlining, and writing timed essays. Aim for 40 minutes per essay.

How to Write a High-Scoring Essay on Work and Employment

To score well, you need to address all parts of the question, use a clear structure, and include relevant examples. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

Analyse the question: Identify the key words (e.g., “causes,” “solutions,” “advantages vs disadvantages”). Underline the instruction.

Plan your ideas: Spend 5 minutes listing 2-3 main points for each side. For opinion questions, you must state your view clearly.

Structure your essay: Use a 4-paragraph or 5-paragraph structure:

- Introduction: paraphrase the question, give your thesis statement (your opinion or roadmap). - Body paragraph 1: main point + explanation + example. - Body paragraph 2: main point + explanation + example (for discuss both views, one paragraph per view). - Conclusion: summarise your position, restate key points.

Use topic-specific vocabulary: Words like “remuneration,” “workforce,” “job security,” “flexible working,” “automation,” “upskilling,” “career progression,” “work-life balance” will boost your Lexical Resource score.

Provide concrete examples: Mention real-world countries, industries, or studies. For instance, “In Japan, the concept of ‘karoshi’ (death from overwork) highlights the dangers of extreme working hours.”

Check grammar and coherence: Use linking words (however, furthermore, as a result) and avoid errors in tenses and subject-verb agreement.

Band Score Comparison Table

Band	What Examiner Wants
6	Addresses the question but may be inconsistent. Simple vocabulary and sentence structures. Some errors in grammar that do not impede understanding. Limited use of examples.
7	Clearly addresses all parts of the question. Uses a range of vocabulary and some complex sentences. Logical paragraph organisation. Examples are relevant but may lack depth.
8	Fully addresses the question with a sophisticated argument. Wide range of vocabulary and sentence structures. Cohesive devices used effectively. Strong, specific examples.
9	Complete, accurate, and nuanced. Natural and precise language. All ideas are fully extended and supported. No noticeable errors. Impressive use of stylistic devices.

Sample Answers for a Common Question

Question: Some people believe that a shorter working week would benefit both employees and employers. Do you agree or disagree?

Band 7 Answer

I strongly agree that a shorter working week can bring advantages to both workers and companies. Firstly, employees would experience less stress and have more time for family and hobbies, which can improve their overall well-being. For example, a study in New Zealand found that a four-day week led to higher job satisfaction. Secondly, employers could benefit from increased productivity because workers are more focused when they have fewer hours. However, some industries may find it difficult to implement, especially those requiring constant customer service. Overall, I believe the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

Band 8 Answer

I concur that a reduction in the standard working week offers significant benefits for both employees and employers. On the one hand, employees gain a better work-life balance, which reduces burnout and mental health issues. A pilot programme in Iceland, for instance, demonstrated that shorter hours did not compromise productivity. On the other hand, employers can enjoy a more motivated and efficient workforce. Nevertheless, careful implementation is necessary to avoid logistical challenges, particularly in sectors like healthcare where 24/7 coverage is essential. In conclusion, I firmly believe that, with proper planning, a shorter working week is a win-win solution.

Band 9 Answer

I wholeheartedly endorse the proposition that a shorter working week yields mutual benefits for employees and employers alike. The primary advantage for employees is the enhancement of mental and physical well-being. By reducing working hours, individuals can allocate more time to rest, family, and personal development, thereby mitigating the risk of chronic stress – a pervasive issue in modern economies. For instance, the landmark trial in Iceland, involving over 2,500 workers, revealed that a 35-hour week actually increased productivity while improving job satisfaction. From the employer’s perspective, a condensed schedule often translates into higher efficiency, lower absenteeism, and reduced turnover costs. However, it would be remiss to ignore potential drawbacks, such as the need for adequate staffing in client-facing roles. Yet, with flexible scheduling and technological integration, these obstacles can be overcome. To conclude, I am convinced that a shorter working week, if implemented thoughtfully, is a progressive step towards a healthier, more productive society.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌Writing off-topic: Mistaking “shorter working week” for “working from home.” Always read the question carefully.

❌Ignoring the second part of the question: Many questions have two parts (e.g., “causes and solutions”). If you only discuss causes, you lose task response marks.

❌Using memorised phrases without relevance: Phrases like “with the advent of technology” are overused. Use them only when genuinely needed.

❌Lack of specific examples: Saying “many studies show” without naming one is weak. Use real examples (e.g., from Japan, Nordic countries, or your own country).

❌Poor paragraph structure: One paragraph should contain one idea. Don’t mix arguments for and against in the same paragraph.

❌Overusing “I think”: Vary with “I believe,” “It is my view that,” “I am convinced that,” etc.

Top Tips

Tip 1: Practise brainstorming 3-4 ideas for each topic within 2 minutes. Use a mind map to organise your thoughts.

Tip 2: Build a vocabulary bank for work topics. Learn 5-10 synonyms (e.g., “job” → “occupation,” “profession,” “career,” “role”).

Tip 3: Always write a conclusion that answers the question directly. Do not introduce new ideas.

Tip 4: For “discuss both views” questions, you can present your own opinion in the conclusion or in a separate paragraph. However, you must show balanced discussion.

Tip 5: Time yourself. Write one essay per day under exam conditions (40 minutes). Then review and rewrite weak parts.

Resources

Check out IELTS Active for practice tests, topic-specific vocabulary lists, and model essays. Use the free study guides to track your progress.

FAQ

Q: How many work-related essay topics should I practice? A: At least 10-15 different questions covering all sub-themes (job satisfaction, automation, unemployment, etc.). The more you practice, the more flexible you become. Q: Can I use the same examples for multiple essays? A: Yes, but adapt them. For example, you can use the Iceland four-day week trial for questions about work-life balance, productivity, or government policy. Q: What if I don’t know the exact statistics? A: It’s acceptable to say “a study in New Zealand” or “many companies in Europe” without exact numbers. The examiner cares about relevance, not memorised data. Q: How can I improve my grammar for work-related essays? A: Focus on conditionals (if workers had more time, they would be happier), passive voice (employees are expected to work overtime), and relative clauses (workers who are overworked often suffer from burnout). Q: Is it okay to use personal experience? A: Yes, but only if it supports your argument. Avoid overly personal stories. Use third-person examples instead.

Key Takeaways

✅30+ real IELTS essay topics on work and employment are provided for practice.

✅Structure your essay with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

✅Use specific vocabulary and real-world examples to boost your Lexical Resource and Task Response scores.

✅Avoid common mistakes like off-topic answers and ignoring parts of the question.

✅Practice regularly with timed essays and review your work against the band descriptor.

Related Posts:

IELTS Essay Topics on Education: 30+ Questions

How to Write a Band 9 IELTS Task 2 Essay

Top 50 Vocabulary Words for IELTS Writing Task 2