IELTS Writing Task 2 – Top Level Authorities Should Take Suggestions From Employees

In this IELTS Writing Task 2 Discussion Essay

We will discuss the notion that “Top level authorities should take suggestions from employees.” We will look into the multifaceted perspectives of taking suggestions from employees, real-world examples, and why top-level authorities should take such suggestions into consideration.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Overview

IELTS Writing Task 2 requires test-takers to compose a coherent essay in response to a given prompt. In Discussion essays, candidates express both views before coming to a conclusion with relevant arguments. Graded on a scale of 1 to 9, achieving a Band 7, 8, or 9 indicates varying levels of proficiency.

Question

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Some people think that top-level authorities of a company should always take suggestions or ideas from employees to make any decision while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

You should write at least 250 words for each of the answers.

Structural Breakdown

Type: Discussion Essay

• Introduction: Introduce the topic and provide a brief overview of the two contrasting views on whether top-level authorities should consider employee suggestions in decision-making. Mention your opinion in one sentence.
• Body Paragraph 1: Present the first perspective supporting employee involvement. Provide reasons and examples to bolster the argument.
• Body Paragraph 2: Present the opposing perspective emphasizing the expertise of top-level authorities. Offer reasons and examples to strengthen this viewpoint.
• Conclusion: Summarize the main points from both perspectives. Reiterate your stance or propose a balanced resolution. End with a thought-provoking statement or future implication.

Band 7 Sample Answer

There is a divided opinion regarding whether top-level authorities in a company should always consider suggestions and ideas from employees when making decisions. On the one hand, employee involvement can foster innovation and inclusivity. On the other hand, some believe that decision-making should remain the prerogative of top management to maintain efficiency and authority. In my opinion, a balanced approach would benefit both the organization and its workforce.

Firstly, engaging employees in decision-making processes can significantly boost morale and productivity. Employees often have valuable insights from their hands-on experience. For instance, a team member working directly with clients may provide crucial feedback on improving customer satisfaction. Such contributions can lead to innovative solutions and a sense of ownership among employees, fostering a collaborative work environment.

However, relying excessively on employee suggestions may not always be feasible. Decision-making at the top level requires a holistic understanding of the organization’s goals, market conditions, and financial constraints. For example, while employees might suggest salary hikes, management must consider the company’s budgetary limitations. In such cases, decision-makers need to exercise their expertise and authority.

In conclusion, while employee suggestions can bring fresh perspectives and inclusivity, the final decision should rest with top-level authorities. Striking a balance between these approaches can ensure efficient decision-making and a motivated workforce.

Vocabulary for Band 7

• Collective intelligence: The shared knowledge and problem-solving ability of a group. Example: The success of the project was attributed to the collective intelligence of the diverse team.
• Innovation: The introduction of new ideas, methods, or products. Example: The company’s success was driven by continuous innovation in its product line.
• Inclusivity: The practice of including people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized. Example: A culture of inclusivity can foster stronger team cohesion.

Band 8 Sample Answer

The debate surrounding the extent to which top-level authorities should embrace employee suggestions and ideas in decision-making processes is a nuanced one. While employee input can inject innovation and improve organizational dynamics, overreliance on such suggestions might hinder strategic efficiency. I believe that top-level authorities should selectively incorporate employee feedback to maintain a balance.

On the one hand, seeking suggestions from employees can unlock a reservoir of untapped potential and foster a culture of trust. Employees often possess unique insights derived from their specific roles, enabling them to identify operational inefficiencies or propose enhancements. For instance, tech companies like Google have successfully implemented ideas generated by employees, resulting in groundbreaking innovations.

Conversely, decision-making at the executive level requires a broader perspective that transcends individual contributions. Leaders must consider long-term strategies, competitive landscapes, and financial constraints. For example, while employees may propose initiatives that improve short-term efficiency, executives must weigh these ideas against the company’s long-term goals and sustainability.

Ultimately, incorporating employee suggestions can enhance innovation and morale, but the responsibility for final decisions should remain with top-level authorities. Striking this balance ensures that the organization benefits from diverse perspectives without compromising strategic integrity.

Vocabulary for Band 8

• Nuanced: Having subtle differences or distinctions. Example: The manager offered a nuanced perspective on the proposed changes.
• Strategic integrity: Maintaining alignment with overarching goals and values. Example: The company’s strategic integrity was evident in its decision to prioritize sustainability.

Band 9 Sample Answer

The question of whether top-level authorities should solicit suggestions from employees in decision-making processes as a part of their hierarchical status is a fundamental aspect of corporate governance. While some argue that leaders should retain autonomous decision-making powers, others advocate for a more inclusive approach. In my view, integrating employee suggestions within a structured framework is essential for achieving optimal outcomes.

From one perspective, employee engagement in decision-making can lead to improved problem-solving and enhanced organizational resilience. Employees, by virtue of their diverse roles, can offer actionable insights that may elude top management. For example, Toyota’s adoption of the “Kaizen” philosophy, which encourages employee suggestions, has played a pivotal role in its operational excellence.

However, unregulated reliance on employee suggestions may dilute the decision-making process. Executives are tasked with overseeing the broader vision of the organization, which requires prioritizing efficiency, market adaptability, and financial prudence. For instance, while employees might advocate for increased benefits, leaders must balance these requests with profit margins and shareholder interests.

In conclusion, while the inclusion of employee suggestions fosters innovation and inclusivity, it must be harmonized with the overarching organizational vision. Leaders should establish mechanisms to evaluate and implement valuable ideas while retaining control over strategic decisions. Such a balanced approach ensures that all voices are heard without compromising the integrity of the organization’s goals.

Vocabulary for Band 9

• Corporate governance: The system of rules, practices, and processes by which a company is directed and controlled. Example: Effective corporate governance is essential for long-term success.
• Operational excellence: The ability to deliver high-quality products and services while optimizing resources. Example: The company achieved operational excellence through continuous process improvement.

Effective Connectors for Writing Task 2

Connectors

• However
• On the other hand
• Conversely
• In contrast
• Furthermore
• Moreover
• Additionally
• In addition to
• Firstly
• Secondly
• Meanwhile
• Subsequently
• Therefore
• Consequently
• In conclusion
• To sum it up
• Finally
• Ultimately
• Indeed
• In fact
• Certainly
• Undoubtedly
• For example
• For instance
• Such as
• To illustrate
• That is to say
• In other words