The following follow-up questions were asked to a student who gave his IELTS speaking exam. You can first read the question, answer it without looking at the sample answers and later on, you can compare your answers with the given sample responses.

What are the Advantages of Working under Pressure?

One advantage if an employee is made to work under pressure is that he can complete his targets and all the work in a disciplined environment within the specified deadlines. Another advantage is that employee becomes more efficient and productive as he works comparatively fast being able to deliver his tasks well on time.

Does it have any disadvantages also?

Yes, it can be disadvantageous as well if an employee who is working under excessive work pressure can lose his temper and may outburst by expressing even no willingness to do the work. Every employee has his own way of dealing with pressure and the extent to which he can deal with it. For example, if a short tempered employee is pressurised a lot, he may lose his temperament easily as compared to other who keeps a lot of patience at work. Thus, it depends upon the individual but it is also true that there’s limit to pressurise an individual.

What is the Importance of Having Days Off?

It is extremely essential to have days off since an individual can perform better if he takes enough rest for which he needs weekend off. It would be a mind relaxing time for an employee who is spending time with family by watching TV, playing games or doing other recreational activities. From Monday to Friday, employees are already working for 8 to 12 hours. They do not get time for their family members and other activities at home. Hence, 1-2 days off on Saturday and Sunday rejuvenates them enough that they get ready to perform the daily tasks next week as well.

What is the Best Way through Which an Employee can be Compensated for Working Extra Hours or Days?

I think the best way an employer can compensate the employees for working some extra time is with money only. Such employees should be paid incentives or extra wages for spending extra hours. This would help them to stay motivated for working more. Other than this, these employees can be appreciated by their bosses in the office for doing extra work. If they are recognized for the kind of work they do, they would love to keep on doing so in the future also.

Do you Think that Technology Reduces Work Pressures Nowadays?

Yes, I agree that technology has drastically improved the way man used to work earlier. With advanced technological devices such as computer, printer etc., it was tedious to perform calculations and storing files manually. But now with the availability of the internet and electronic devices, all the work gets done so easily. These devices are more efficient than the humans and hence, this has reduced work load on manpower.