Describe a Successful Businessman You Know- IELTS Cue Card Sample Answers

In the IELTS speaking section, cue cards challenge test-takers to speak at length on a particular subject. One stimulating prompt might be to describe a successful businessman you know. Such a topic allows candidates to demonstrate their ability to convey admiration, articulate the nuances of success, and engage in storytelling. 

Sample Answer:

There are many yardsticks for success in the business world, but few individuals exemplify it as holistically as Mr. Arjun Mehta, the founder, and CEO of Innovatech, a pioneer in sustainable technologies. I had the privilege of interning at Innovatech, and Mr. Mehta's business acumen, coupled with his humanitarian vision, left an indelible impression on me.

Mr. Mehta started his journey from a small garage, armed with nothing but a brilliant mind and an unyielding spirit. Today, his company stands at the forefront of innovation, championing renewable energy solutions. He is a businessman who has not only built a corporate empire but has also contributed significantly to environmental conservation.

What sets Mr. Mehta apart is his unique approach to leadership. He leads not from a towering office, but from the ground, working alongside his employees, sharing their triumphs and challenges. His demeanor is a blend of humility and confidence, inspiring a work culture that thrives on creativity and mutual respect.

To describe Mr. Mehta for the IELTS speaking test, I would highlight his transformative leadership, the ethical core of his business practices, and his influence on budding entrepreneurs. He is a testament to the fact that a successful businessman does not merely generate profits but also generates goodwill and drives positive change.

Follow-Up Questions & Answers:

Q1: What qualities do you believe contribute to Mr. Mehta's success?

A1: Mr. Mehta’s success can be attributed to a multitude of qualities, but foremost among them are his innovative mindset, ethical business practices, and inclusive leadership style. He has an uncanny ability to foresee market trends, which has been instrumental in Innovatech's growth.

Q2: How has Mr. Mehta impacted his industry and community?

A2: Within his industry, Mr. Mehta has raised the bar for sustainability, influencing competitors to adopt greener practices. In the community, he has implemented numerous initiatives, from setting up educational scholarships to investing in local infrastructure, fostering a deep sense of corporate social responsibility.

Q3: Can you describe a challenge that Mr. Mehta faced and how he overcame it?

A3: A significant challenge Mr. Mehta faced was the initial skepticism about the viability of renewable energy. He overcame this by relentlessly pursuing innovation, securing patents for groundbreaking technologies, and effectively showcasing their practicality and profitability.

Tips for Cracking the IELTS Speaking Test:

Tip 1: Understand the cue card topic thoroughly before beginning to speak.

Tip 2: Organize your thoughts quickly; an effective strategy is to mentally outline your response using the 'who, what, when, where, why, and how' approach.

Tip 3: Use a varied vocabulary and try to incorporate some less common and idiomatic language.

Tip 4: Speak confidently and at a natural pace, being mindful of your pronunciation and intonation.

Tip 5: Remember to be coherent; your answer should have a clear beginning, middle, and end.

Tip 6: Practice speaking in front of a mirror or record yourself to analyze your body language and improve upon it.

Tip 7: Stay calm, even if you make a mistake. It’s your overall ability to communicate that’s being tested, not perfection.

Tip 8: Engage with the topic personally. Personal anecdotes or opinions (when appropriate) can make your response stand out.

Tip 9: Listen to English podcasts, TED talks, or interviews to get a sense of fluent, natural English speaking.

Tip 10: Get feedback on your speaking from a teacher or a language exchange partner to identify and work on your weaknesses.

Describing a successful businessman like Mr. Mehta in the IELTS speaking test can be a rewarding opportunity to demonstrate your language skills while discussing the attributes of effective leadership and entrepreneurial success. By following the tips provided and understanding how to structure your response, you can approach your IELTS speaking cue card with confidence, ready to articulate your thoughts with clarity and conviction.