Some managers think it’s good to spend time outside work with their staff, while some managers think it’s a bad thing. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. | Real exam ielts writing task 2 |

Question

Some managers think it’s good to spend time outside work with their staff, while some managers think it’s a bad thing.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

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Sample Answer

In modern workplaces, opinions vary regarding whether managers should engage with employees socially outside of work hours. Some believe this fosters stronger workplace relationships, while others argue that it can blur professional boundaries. In my opinion, occasional social interaction can be beneficial, but it must be managed carefully to maintain professionalism.

On one hand, spending time with staff beyond the office can cultivate camaraderie (meaning: build friendly and trusting relationships) and enhance team cohesion. When managers and employees interact in a more relaxed environment, hierarchical barriers (meaning: differences in authority levels) may be reduced, leading to more open communication. For example, team dinners, sports activities, or informal coffee meet-ups can make staff feel valued and boost morale (meaning: increase confidence and enthusiasm). This stronger sense of belonging often results in higher job satisfaction and productivity.

On the other hand, critics argue that excessive socialising between managers and staff can lead to favouritism (meaning: unfair preference towards certain employees) or perceived bias. If managers become too close to some team members, it might cause resentment among others and harm the work environment. Moreover, personal interactions can sometimes lead to breaches of confidentiality (meaning: revealing sensitive work-related information) or uncomfortable situations that undermine respect for authority. In certain corporate cultures, maintaining a clear demarcation (meaning: distinct separation) between personal and professional life is crucial for sustaining discipline and mutual respect.

In my view, a balanced approach works best. Managers should engage in occasional social events to strengthen relationships and understand employees better, but these interactions should remain inclusive, transparent, and limited in frequency. This ensures that the benefits of stronger teamwork are achieved without compromising professionalism.

To conclude, while socialising with staff outside work can improve communication and team spirit, overdoing it risks damaging workplace harmony. Therefore, managers should adopt a measured approach (meaning: carefully controlled and moderate) that blends approachability with professional distance.

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Lexical Resource & Meanings

1. Cultivate camaraderie – Build friendly, trusting relationships.

2. Hierarchical barriers – The authority gap between managers and staff.

3. Boost morale – Improve confidence, enthusiasm, and job satisfaction.

4. Favouritism – Unfair preference shown to certain people.

5. Breaches of confidentiality – Revealing private or sensitive information without permission.

6. Clear demarcation – A well-defined separation between two things.

7. Measured approach – A carefully balanced and moderate strategy.

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