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IELTS Speaking Part 2 · Work & study

Describe a job you would like to have in the future

Describe a job you would like to have in the future

You should say:

  • what kind of work or position it is
  • what daily responsibilities it would involve
  • what qualifications or experience are required

and explain why you are interested in doing this job.

How to plan your answer

Use your 1 minute to jot down key words for each point, not full sentences.

  1. 1

    what kind of work or position it is

    I want to work as an urban planner focusing on sustainable city development.

  2. 2

    what daily responsibilities it would involve

    Analyzing land use, meeting community leaders, and designing green spaces for residents.

  3. 3

    what qualifications or experience are required

    A master's degree in urban design, plus experience with geographic mapping software.

  4. 4

    and explain why you are interested in doing this job.

    It combines my passion for geography with making cities healthier and more liveable.

Sample answer

about 231 words · 2 minutes

If I could choose my ideal future career, I would love to work as an urban planner specializing in sustainable city development. It is a role that combines environmental science, architecture, and public policy, which has always fascinated me. In terms of daily responsibilities, a typical day would involve analyzing data on land use, population growth, and traffic patterns. I would spend a lot of time meeting with local community leaders and local council members to discuss urban growth. Another key part of the job would be designing eco-friendly spaces, such as public parks and pedestrian-friendly streets, to reduce pollution and improve people's quality of life. To land a position like this, a candidate usually needs a solid academic background, such as a degree in geography, architecture, or urban design, followed by a relevant master's degree. In addition, candidates are expected to have hands-on experience with specialized geographic mapping software and a good understanding of local zoning laws. Strong communication skills are also essential because you constantly have to present complex ideas to non-experts. The main reason I am so keen on pursuing this career is that I want to make a tangible difference in how people live. Growing up in a crowded city made me realize how crucial good infrastructure is for mental and physical well-being. Being able to shape a community for the better sounds incredibly rewarding to me.

A teaching example, not a script to memorise. Say it in your own words.

Useful phrases

  • sustainable city development

    The council is investing heavily in sustainable city development to cut carbon emissions.

  • in terms of

    In terms of workload, the new position is much more demanding.

  • land a position

    She worked hard for months to land a position at the research institute.

  • hands-on experience

    Graduates with hands-on experience often find jobs more quickly.

  • make a tangible difference

    Volunteering at the shelter allows me to make a tangible difference in my local community.

Common mistakes

I am want to be a doctor in future.

I would like to become a doctor in the future.

Use would like to for future wishes and include the article before future.

This job requires many experiences in management.

This job requires a lot of experience in management.

Experience meaning work knowledge is uncountable in English.

I am interesting in this job because it pays well.

I am interested in this job because it pays well.

Use interested to describe personal feelings and interesting for things causing interest.

Tips for a higher band

  • Use conditional structures like 'I would be responsible for' to reflect that you are talking about a hypothetical future job.
  • Group your points using natural signposting phrases like 'When it comes to qualifications' instead of reading bullets strictly.
  • Vary your vocabulary when discussing work, using synonyms for 'job' such as 'career path', 'profession', or 'role'.

Part 3 follow-up questions

After Part 2 the examiner may ask deeper questions on the same theme.

  • How have job preferences among young people changed compared to previous generations?
  • Do you think artificial intelligence will make certain traditional jobs obsolete in the near future?
  • What factors should governments consider when trying to reduce unemployment rates?

Now try this cue card

1 minute to prepare, up to 2 minutes to speak, then a band estimate and tips for each criterion.

Practise this cue card

Practice estimate, not an official IELTS score.

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Describe a job you would like to have in the future (IELTS Cue Card & Sample Answer)