GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 223
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some employers believe that job applicants’ social skills are more important than their academic qualifications.
Do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1: [Agreement]
While academic qualifications provide individuals with the necessary knowledge and technical skills for a job, social skills play a crucial role in fostering effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability in the workplace. Therefore, I strongly agree with the opinion that job applicants’ social skills are more important than their academic qualifications. This essay will explain why I possess this opinion.
Firstly, possessing strong social skills enables individuals to effectively communicate and collaborate with colleagues and clients. In many professions, such as sales, customer service, and management, the ability to build rapport, listen actively, and convey ideas clearly is vital for success. For instance, a salesperson with excellent social skills can establish a connection with potential customers, understand their needs, and effectively persuade them to make a purchase.
Secondly, social skills contribute to a positive and harmonious work environment. Employees who possess strong interpersonal skills are more likely to work well in teams, resolve conflicts, and foster a supportive atmosphere. This enhances productivity and employee satisfaction. For example, in a project-based setting, a team leader who possesses exceptional social skills can effectively delegate tasks, motivate team members, and facilitate effective collaboration to achieve project goals.
Lastly, social skills are instrumental in navigating workplace dynamics and adapting to changing circumstances. In today’s dynamic and fast-paced work environment, the ability to adapt, learn, and thrive in new situations is crucial. Individuals with strong social skills are better equipped to handle change, build professional networks, and seize opportunities for growth and advancement.
In conclusion, while academic qualifications provide a foundation of knowledge, social skills are paramount in the workplace. They enable effective communication, foster teamwork, and facilitate adaptability. Ultimately, possessing strong social skills can positively impact an individual’s career prospects and contribute to their overall professional success.
Sample Answer 2: [Disagreement]
No doubt, social skills are valuable in the workplace, but it has little value without academic qualifications. Educational qualifications provide a solid foundation of knowledge and expertise that is essential for job performance and long-term success. This is why I disagree with the view that the social skills of an applicant are more essential than their academic qualifications.
Firstly, academic qualifications demonstrate a candidate’s level of expertise and competence in their field. In professions that require specialised knowledge and technical skills, such as medicine, engineering, and law, academic qualifications are indispensable. For example, a surgeon needs to possess a strong educational background, including practical training, to perform complex procedures safely and effectively. Without the necessary academic qualifications, individuals may lack the depth of understanding and expertise required for demanding roles.
Secondly, academic qualifications are often a prerequisite for certain career paths and professional certifications. Many industries have specific educational requirements that must be met for individuals to be eligible for job opportunities and career advancement. For instance, in the field of finance, candidates need to possess relevant academic qualifications, such as a degree in finance or accounting, to pursue roles as financial analysts or certified public accountants.
Furthermore, academic qualifications demonstrate a candidate’s commitment, discipline, and ability to learn and apply knowledge as well as important soft and social skills. The rigours of academic study require individuals to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, which are transferable to the workplace. While social skills are important for collaboration and effective communication, they can be developed and improved over time through training and experience. On the other hand, academic qualifications are more difficult to acquire and provide a solid foundation of knowledge that cannot be easily replicated.
In conclusion, while social skills are valuable, academic qualifications hold significant importance in the job market. They serve as indicators of expertise, provide access to specific career paths, and demonstrate a candidate’s commitment and ability to learn.
Model Answer 3: [Agreement]
There has been much discussion revolving around the issue of whether job applicants’ social skills are more important than their academic qualifications. In this essay, I will explain why social skills are more vital, compared with the academic qualifications of job seekers.
The merits of outstanding social skills are apparent. Firstly, communication is the key to career success in modern workplaces. This is mainly because the 21st century is best characterised by constant interaction with different people, no matter whether the communication happens in person or online. Secondly, the ability to sell products or services is of paramount significance in any business – this requires strong social skills. For example, an employee with excellent social skills is able to have an impact in front of customers or clients; as a result, products or services can be perceived as high-value.
Furthermore, employees with better social skills are generally more easygoing, which is very important to the workplace, including the employer. After all, as the saying goes, “Who you work with is as important as what you do.” – An enjoyable work environment needs socially skilful employees.
In contrast, some others may claim that academic qualifications are the prerequisite for employment. Apparently, many positions require certain qualifications. However, in modern-day society, more and more employers have realised that whether employees can get the results that the business wants is the key to business success. It can be seen that qualifications do not play a key role in this regard.
To conclude, having considered both views, I think employees’ social skills are of overriding importance for an organisation. Also, I would suggest employers consider job applicants’ social skills first, which I believe is soundly based on practical reasoning and logic.
[Written and submitted by – Punom]