IELTS Problem and Solution Essay: Employment Topics with Sample Answers

Model Answer

In contemporary society, it has become increasingly common for older adults to compete with younger individuals for employment opportunities. This essay will explore the underlying reasons for this trend and propose several strategies to alleviate the associated challenges.

The main issue stems from the fact that younger individuals are eager to secure positions in the workforce as early as possible, which in turn creates obstacles for older job seekers. For instance, in South Korea, there has been a notable rise in youth entering the job market without pursuing higher education. This group is driven by the desire for financial independence and a stable life, aiming to avoid reliance on parental support. Furthermore, many companies are increasingly inclined to hire younger employees because they can be paid significantly less—often as little as 25% of what experienced older workers would earn—leading employers to let go of senior staff to reduce operational costs.

To address these challenges, governments need to implement targeted support for older workers. One effective approach would be to introduce free training programs specifically designed for older individuals, enabling them to acquire the latest skills more commonly held by younger candidates. For example, local colleges could offer courses in information technology, foreign languages, and internship opportunities tailored to mature learners. The government should also encourage employers to revise their hiring practices by emphasizing the unique value and wealth of experience that older workers bring to the workplace.

In conclusion, the competition for employment between older and younger individuals presents significant challenges, particularly for older job seekers who may find it increasingly difficult to secure positions. Nevertheless, with appropriate training initiatives and a shift in recruitment practices, older adults can effectively compete on an equal footing with the younger generation in the job market.

Model AnswerIn contemporary society, a growing number of job seekers are compelled to leave their hometowns in pursuit of employment opportunities. Although this trend may temporarily ease unemployment, it often results in the isolation of workers and various psychosocial challenges. To address these outcomes, several practical solutions can be considered.

I believe this is a worrying trend because individuals who relocate for work frequently find themselves uprooted from their familiar environments. The support of family and friends plays a crucial role in helping people manage work-related stress. As a result, those who move far from home are deprived of this essential buffer. For instance, employees stationed at remote refineries experience psychological issues such as depression and homesickness, a trend supported by empirical studies. Moreover, since people are typically attuned to the environments they were raised in, adapting to a new cultural or climatic setting can be profoundly difficult. For instance, someone raised in a temperate region may struggle to acclimatize to colder climates. Adapting to unfamiliar social customs also compounds this difficulty.

While addressing unemployment remains a priority, the negative side effects of forced relocation should not be overlooked. One potential solution is to construct dedicated housing near workplaces, allowing employees to live in proximity to their families. Additionally, employers should provide adequate vacation time each month, enabling workers to reconnect with their relatives. Finally, in roles that require relocation, employers might prioritize candidates who are more independent or less emotionally tied to their hometowns, thereby reducing the psychological toll.

In conclusion, relocating for employment should not come at the cost of emotional well-being. By creating family-friendly housing, encouraging work-life balance through leave policies, and matching roles to candidates’ circumstances, we can ensure economic opportunity does not lead to social disconnection.