Table of Contents
Introduction
The IELTS Listening Test often includes recordings of everyday conversations, such as a new employee discussing their first day at work. This type of listening exercise helps test-takers understand workplace-related vocabulary, instructions, and general work environment descriptions.
In this IELTS listening practice test, you’ll hear a speaker talk about their first day at a new job, describing their experiences, tasks, and challenges.
Common Challenges in Workplace Listening Tasks
- Understanding workplace vocabulary – Words like “orientation,” “colleagues,” and “supervisor” are commonly used.
- Following sequences of events – The speaker often describes what happened in order.
- Listening for key details – The test may ask about names, times, places, or tasks.
IELTS Listening First Day at Work Practice Exercise
Listening Audio File
Listen to the following audio and complete the chart with information from the transcript.
Comprehension Task: Fill in the Missing Information
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. Name of the speaker | ________ |
| 2. Job position | ________ |
| 3. Time of arrival | ________ |
| 4. Name of manager | ________ |
| 5. Main morning task | ________ |
| 6 Lunch companions | ________ |
| 7. Afternoon tasks | ________ |
| 8. Speaker’s feelings at the end of the day | ________ |
IELTS Vocabulary for Workplace Listening
Here are some useful words and phrases you might hear in a workplace-related IELTS listening task:
- Common phrases – “Get the hang of it,” “settle in,” “handle customers,” “restock shelves”
- Job roles – “Supervisor,” “manager,” “colleague,” “trainee,” “assistant”
- Work activities – “Orientation,” “training session,” “team meeting,” “customer service”
- Workplace locations – “Office,” “break room,” “main entrance,” “checkout counter”
Tips to Ace the IELTS Listening Test on Workplace Topics
- ✅ Listen for names and job titles – These are common test questions.
- ✅ Follow the sequence of events – Pay attention to when things happen.
- ✅ Take quick notes – Jot down key details while listening.
- ✅ Familiarize yourself with workplace vocabulary – Review common workplace terms before the test.
IELTS Listening First Day at Work (Transcript)
Hi, my name is James, and today was my first day as a customer service assistant at a retail store. I arrived at 8:30 AM and met my manager, Sarah, who gave me a quick tour and introduced me to my colleagues.
First, I attended a short orientation where I learned about company policies and customer service guidelines. Then, Sarah showed me how to use the checkout system. It was tricky at first, but I got the hang of it.
During my lunch break, I sat with Mark and Lisa, who shared useful tips about handling customers. In the afternoon, I restocked shelves and answered customer inquiries.
By the end of the day, I felt more comfortable. It was overwhelming at first, but my manager and colleagues were very supportive. I’m looking forward to improving in the coming weeks.
Related Pages
- Introduction to the IELTS Exam: Everything You Need to Know
- IELTS Listening – IELTS Form Completion Practice
- IELTS Listening Practice Test with Answers — IELTS Travel Vocabulary
- IELTS Listening Test: Format, Tips, and Practice
- IELTS Listening Maps and Diagrams Practice – Master Directions & Spatial Awareness