VSTEP B1, B2, C1 Speaking Part 2: Solution Discussion

- Question:

A friend is dealing with communication issues at work. Would you recommend professional training, mediation, or seeking advice from a mentor?

- Answer:

While all three options can be helpful, I would recommend seeking advice from a mentor as a first step. This approach is personal, accessible, and can provide practical, situation-specific advice.

Professional training can be beneficial but may not be immediately attainable due to cost or availability. Moreover, it often covers a broad range of topics, which may not specifically address the individual's issue. Mediation, while effective in resolving disputes, may be seen as a more serious step and can feel confrontational or overly formal for some people.

In contrast, mentors, particularly those familiar with the workplace, can provide tailored advice and guidance based on their personal experiences and understanding of the situation. A mentor can give actionable tips, share their own experiences, and offer emotional support. This one-on-one interaction can help the friend gain new perspectives and strategies to handle communication issues effectively.

Therefore, while all options have their merits, I believe seeking advice from a mentor provides a personal, accessible, and effective approach to address communication issues at work.

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