Category Archives: Work

Lesson 151: Drawing🎨

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This week’s lesson pushes you to train to speak about a common hobby: drawing. As you will hear in the sample, the candidate isn’t super enthusiastic about drawing, and they skillfully use language choices to express this.

Step 1: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode (audio and video version available below).

Part 1 Questions

Do you work or study?
Why did you choose this job?
Let’s talk about drawing. Do you like drawing?
What do you draw?
Are there benefits to drawing?
Is it important to teach children how to draw?
Is it important for adults to be able to draw?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

doodle
-a rough drawing made absentmindedly

“I might doodle an animal one day and a busy city street the next.”

Step 2: Listen to the sample a few times to get more familiar with the language.

Step 3: Engage this week’s full speech shadowing lesson. (If you do not yet have access, click here to sign up for full lessons.)

Step 4: Below is Monday’s speech exercise. Post yourself saying this excerpt to your Whatsapp group. Exercises for Tuesday to Friday will be posted in the group by your instructor.

Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

“I do draw on occasion, and I would say I like it for the most part. The act of sketching allows me to unwind and unleash my creativity, but I have to admit I’m not particularly talented at it.”
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Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝

Transcript

Do you work or study?

I work as a server at a popular dining establishment in the heart of the city. My role involves providing exceptional customer service, taking orders and ensuring a pleasant dining experience for patrons.

Why did you choose this job?

The decision to pursue a career in the restaurant industry was influenced by my passion for hospitality and interpersonal interaction. I thrive in environments where I can engage with people from diverse backgrounds and cater to their needs with warmth and professionalism. Let’s talk about drawing.

Do you like drawing?

I do draw on occasion, and I would say I like it for the most part. The act of sketching allows me to unwind and unleash my creativity, but I have to admit I’m not particularly talented at it.

What do you draw?

I don’t usually plan out my drawings ahead of time, so they tend to encompass a wide array of subjects. I might doodle an animal one day and a busy city street the next. I think the last time I drew something it was a cross section of a house, where you could see the rooms inside and what was going on.

Are there benefits to drawing?

Drawing offers a multitude of benefits beyond its artistic appeal. Engaging in drawing promotes mindfulness and relaxation, and I feel it serves as a therapeutic outlet for stress relief and self-expression. Moreover, it enhances cognitive skills such as observation, spatial reasoning and problem-solving, and this can encourage mental agility and creative thinking.

Is it important to teach children how to draw?

Yes, it certainly is. Nurturing children’s drawing skills is essential for their holistic development and self-discovery. For example, drawing encourages imagination, fine motor skills and visual literacy, and I believe these skills provide a foundation for creative expression and critical thinking.

Is it important for adults to be able to draw?

I wouldn’t say it is critically important, but it can be a useful skill to have in certain personal and professional contexts. Being capable of sketching concepts –such as business ideas or flooring layouts in an office– enhances communication, problem-solving and innovation. As I mentioned before, it could be a source of relaxation for certain people, too.

Thank you.

Lesson 141: Something you bought that you cannot live without💻

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We once again are examining a band 9 response to Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking exam. Below is the cue card that appears in this lesson:

Describe something that you bought that you now cannot live without. You should say:
-what it is
-why you bought it
-how often you use it
and explain why you cannot live without it.

Step 1: Listen to this week’s sample response. (There is a transcript below for you to refer to should you need it.)

Step 2: Below is this week’s IELTSCast episode. This episode includes a portion of the full ‘repeat after me’ exercise with which you can do some speech training.

Step 3: Now try the full speech shadowing lesson.

Step 4: Read through the below transcript again. Clearly note any new language you come across in your journal and actively try to include this language in your own day-to-day speaking.

Step 5: Post your speech samples to your Whatsapp group. Your instructor will provide you with feedback.

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Transcript

Describe something that you bought that you now cannot live without. You should say:
-what it is
-why you bought it
-how often you use it
and explain why you cannot live without it.

I’d like to talk about my indispensable MacBook Air. I bought it approximately two years ago when I was in dire need of a reliable and portable computer.

I guess I would say the primary motivator for this purchase was my transition into a more digital-centric lifestyle. I mentioned before that I’m a marketing specialist and, in the wake of COVID, it quickly became apparent to me that I would need a lightweight and powerful laptop to work from both my home and my office. Even though it was quite expensive, I decided on the MacBook Air due to its impressive performance and excellent battery life.

On average, I use my MacBook Air for at least six to eight hours every day. It has become an integral part of my daily routine, serving not only as a workstation but also as a hub for all of my professional communication.

The reason I cannot imagine my life without this device is the seamless integration it provides into various aspects of my daily activities. For the projects I work on, it allows me to bring my creative marketing visions to life. I also use it for personal endeavours. For example, I use it to stay in touch with friends and I often use it to order items from Amazon. It is for these reasons the device has become an irreplaceable tool in my life.

My MacBook Air is an investment that not only met but exceeded my expectations. Its role in my daily activities has become so significant that I honestly cannot imagine navigating through life without it.

Lesson 140: Quiet places and sunglasses🕶️

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This week we are examining an IELTS Speaking Part 1 response that switches from the topic of ‘quiet places’ to the topic of ‘sunglasses’.

Step 1: As always, the first step is to listen to the model. Do your best to note any new language you come across and any areas you are unsure about. (Remember there is always a full transcript at the bottom of these lessons!)

Step 2: Now that you are familiar with the sample, listen to this week’s IELTSCast episode. This will give you a small preview lesson with which to train your speaking about this week’s topics:

Step 3: As always, your task is to now make it through the longer FULL exercise. Remember that a key step here is to note all new language in your journal to ensure you are able to review it later and include it in your own day-to-day conversations. (If you do not yet have access to these full lessons, click here.)

Step 4: Review the below transcript again and post any questions you have about this week’s lesson as comment.

Step 5: In your Whatsapp group, practise saying some of the sentences from the response. Your instructor will give you feedback on how to improve your clarity and pronunciation.

Transcript

Are you currently working or are you a student?

I am currently employed as a marketing specialist for a technology company. I have been working in this role for the past three years.

Do you prefer working in a crowded place or a quiet one?

Personally, I thrive in a quieter work environment. I find that I can concentrate better and be more productive when there are fewer distractions.

Do you like spending your vacations or holidays in crowded or quiet places?

I tend to lean towards quieter destinations when it comes to vacations. The peacefulness of open landscapes and the chance to unwind away from the hustle and bustle of daily life are appealing to me. I can’t imagine experiencing the same level of relaxation in a crowded city.

Let’s talk about sunglasses. Do you often wear sunglasses?

I make it a habit to wear sunglasses, especially during the sunny seasons. Not only do they provide protection against harmful UV rays, but they also help reduce glare. Additionally, I see sunglasses as a fashion accessory, and I often choose a pair that complements my style.

Should people be encouraged to wear sunglasses?

Absolutely. I believe people should be encouraged to wear sunglasses, not just as a fashion statement but also for the health benefits. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays can lead to various eye conditions, and wearing sunglasses is a simple and effective way to get long-term protection of one’s eyes.

Have you ever bought sunglasses for someone else?

Yes, I have. On a couple of occasions, I have purchased sunglasses as gifts for friends and family. I believe it’s a thoughtful present, and I make sure to consider the recipient’s style and preferences when selecting a pair. It’s a practical yet stylish gift and it’s a great choice for people that are hard to buy gifts for.

Thank you.

Lesson 129: Concentration🤔

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This lesson examines questions that appeared in Part 1 of a recent exam.

Step 1: Listen to the full model here to familiarise yourself with the language.

Step 2: For those with access to the full lessons, watch the below video to complete this week’s full lesson training. Refer to the below transcript if you need any support.

Step 3: Read through the below transcript and ensure you understand all parts of the response.

Step 4: Post this week’s speech samples to your Whatsapp group.

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Transcript

What is your full name?
My full name is Richard Thompson.

Where are you from?
I am originally from Boston, a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse population.

Do you work or are you a student?
I am currently employed in the field of marketing.

Where do you work?
I work at XYZ Marketing Agency, a reputable firm specialising in digital marketing solutions.

How many hours do you work per week?
I typically work around 40 hours per week. It varies based on project requirements and deadlines.

Are you able to concentrate at work?
Yes, I consider myself to be quite focused at work. I believe concentration is essential for productivity, and I make a conscious effort to minimise distractions and stay engaged in my tasks.

What helps you concentrate at work?
Several factors contribute to my ability to concentrate. Firstly, I ensure I have a well-organised workspace. Secondly, I prioritise tasks and break them into manageable chunks, which helps me stay on track. Additionally, I find that taking short breaks and practising mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing, enhance my focus and overall job performance.

When you were in school, did you find it easy to concentrate?
Yes, during my school years, I generally found it easy to concentrate. I believe this was partly due to my interest in the subjects I was studying. Moreover, I developed effective study habits and time management skills, which played a significant role in maintaining my concentration levels.

Lesson 128: Talking about projects at work🗂️

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This lesson examines questions that were asked in Part 3 of a recent IELTS Speaking exam. It includes a very good exercise that will help you learn to speak about one of the most common topics in IELTS Speaking: work.

Step 1: Listen to this week’s full sample. If any of the vocabulary is new to you, consult the transcript below.

Step 2: Listen to this week’s podcast episode, which includes a helpful few ‘repeat after me’ sentences that you can train with.

Step 3: Complete the full exercise. This video includes prompts to help you repeat the language accurately.

Step 4: Critical to your progress as a speaker of English is your ability to include new vocabulary items in your day-to-day speaking. To support your efforts, reread the below transcript and write the new language items in your study journal.

Step 5: Submit your speech samples to your Whatsapp instructor.

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Transcript

How important is it for employees to take on challenging projects at work?

Taking on challenging projects at work is of paramount importance. It not only helps employees grow and develop professionally but also contributes significantly to the overall success of the organisation. Challenging projects provide employees with the opportunity to expand their skill set, learn new things and think creatively. In fact, the ability to handle challenging projects is often a key differentiator in one’s career progression, as it showcases a person’s problem solving skills, leadership potential and adaptability.

What skills are necessary to successfully handle challenging projects?

Handling challenging projects successfully demands a diverse set of skills. Firstly, problem solving skills are crucial. Employees should be able to analyse complex issues, identify potential solutions and make informed decisions. Additionally, effective communication and teamwork are essential for collaboration and sharing ideas within the team. I would also say that time management and organisational skills are necessary to ensure that tasks are completed on schedule. Those are the main skills that come to mind.

How do you think technology has changed the way people approach and complete work-related projects?

Technology has revolutionised the way people approach and complete work-related projects. It has streamlined processes, increased efficiency and expanded the possibilities of what can be achieved. For example, as we saw during COVID, digital tools made it possible for employees to collaborate seamlessly from different locations. Technology has thus accelerated the pace of work and made remote work more viable.

How should a person or team respond when a project doesn’t go as planned?

When a project doesn’t go as planned, it is essential to respond with a constructive approach. The first step should be to conduct a thorough post-mortem analysis to understand what went wrong and why. Identifying the root causes of the issues is crucial for preventing similar problems in the future. Communication within the team and with stakeholders is also key because this keeps everyone informed of the situation and the steps being taken to address it. One final but critical step is to maintain a positive and solution oriented mindset. Setbacks are inherent in most projects, and a resilient team that can learn from its mistakes is more likely to rebound quickly.

Lesson 119: Cybersecurity🛡️

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This week’s lesson looks at Part 3 questions on the theme of cybersecurity. The candidate is asked to share their opinions on the topic, and the conversation with the examiner evolves organically.

Step 1: Listen to the full model. The vocabulary used in this Part 3 demonstration is less common than usual, so remember to re-listen to this sample several times to get a true feeling for how much of the language you can understand.

Step 2: Listen to this week’s podcast episode and try the included sample exercise.

Step 3: Work your way through the full exercise. As mentioned, this week uses less common language, so be sure to repeat portions of the exercise and consult the transcript if you need support. All questions can be posted as a comment to this lesson, too.

Step 4: Read through the transcript again and make special note of all new language you have learned in this lesson. Remember that it is important to review your journal regularly to ensure you are retaining and including what you learn in your own day-to-day speaking.

Step 5: Post your speech samples to your Whatsapp group. Your instructor will provide you with feedback within 24 hours of your submission.

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Transcript

How do you think the use of electronic devices has changed the way people work compared to the past?

The use of electronic devices has undeniably revolutionized the way people work compared to the past. Previously, work was primarily centred around physical locations, such as offices and factories, where employees were essentially tethered to specific workstations. However, with the advent of electronic devices work has become increasingly flexible and decentralised. Individuals can now work remotely and access vast amounts of information within seconds. This level of convenience and efficiency was unimaginable in the past.

Are there any disadvantages to relying heavily on electronic devices for work-related tasks?

Yes, there are. One of the primary concerns is the potential for digital distractions. With constant notifications, emails and social media, employees may find it challenging to maintain focus and productivity. Furthermore, the overuse of electronic devices can lead to health issues, such as eye strain and sedentary behaviour, which may contribute to long-term health problems.

How has the advancement of technology influenced the types of jobs available in today’s workforce?

The advancement of technology has had a profound impact on the types of jobs available in today’s workforce. Robotics and artificial intelligence have led to the automation of routine tasks, which has resulted in the need for completely new jobs in fields like data analysis and cybersecurity.

Technology, for better or for worse, has also created the ‘gig’ economy, making freelance work and short-term contracts possible. This diversifying of the job market has required individuals continuously adapt and acquire new skills to remain competitive in the rapidly changing work environment.

In what ways can people ensure the security and privacy of their data when using electronic devices for important work?

There are several measures individuals can take to protect their data. Regularly updating software and applications is also critical, as updates often contain security patches that address vulnerabilities. Further, encrypting sensitive data and using secure connections can safeguard information from unauthorised access.

Are there any ethical concerns related to the use of electronic devices for work?

Indeed. For example, employers may use monitoring software to track employees’ activities. This of course raises questions about the extent to which such surveillance is ethical and respects employees’ privacy and personal space.

Additionally, issues related to data privacy and confidentiality arise when handling sensitive customer or client information.

A final ethical concern I can think of is the ‘digital divide,’ where some individuals have access to advanced electronic devices and the internet while others do not. As we were discussing earlier, so much of the workforce is now dependent on technology. Not having access to technology may mean some individuals do not have equitable access to job opportunities.

Thank you. This is the end of the speaking exam.

Lesson 118: An electronic device you used for important work🤳

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This week, we’re looking at a Part 2 cue card that requires you speak about a device you used for important work. Here is the cue card:

Describe a time when you used an electronic device for some important work. You should say
– what you did
– when you did it
– why you had to use your electronic device
– and explain how you felt about this experience.

Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

Step 2: Listen to this week’s podcast episode and work through the free sample exercise.

Step 3: Below is this week’s full exercise. Work through the exercise and remember to redo sections if the language is completely new or challenging.

Step 4: Included below is the full transcript for this lesson. Read through it and note language items that you found challenging. Remember to attempt to include these noted items in your own day-to-day speaking.

Step 5: You will be given five short speech exercises in your Whatsapp group. Submit your speech samples promptly and wait for feedback from your instructor.

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Transcript

Describe a time when you used an electronic device for some important work. You should say
– what you did
– when you did it
– why you had to use your electronic device
– and explain how you felt about this experience.

I’d like to talk about a time when I used my laptop for an important task. About six months ago, I had to prepare a crucial presentation for my workplace. I work as a marketing manager in a multinational company, and this presentation was a key component of a pitch we were making to a potential client.

I performed this task a day before the scheduled presentation. I remember it was a Sunday, and the presentation was to be held on Monday morning. I had known about the presentation for about a week in advance, but the busy nature of my job made it difficult to find time to work on the task.

The reason I had to use my laptop was primarily for gathering data and creating visual aids. I relied heavily on my laptop to research the client’s industry trends and their competitors’ strategies, and to glean statistical data that could support our proposal. Additionally, I used presentation software on the device to design slides that would be both informative and visually appealing.

Reflecting on this experience, I can say I felt a mixture of pressure, determination and gratitude. On one hand, I was aware of the significance of the presentation: it could potentially secure a lucrative deal for our company. On the other hand, the time constraint added an extra layer of stress that was honestly rather unpleasant. However, I embraced the challenge and saw it as an opportunity to showcase my skills and dedication. By the time I completed the presentation late into the night, I was not only proud of the outcome but also amazed at how much my device had helped to accelerate the task. I can’t imagine how long a task like this would take without the support of a laptop!

Thank you.

Lesson 115: Your work, zoos and animals🦁

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Over the last two years, the topic of ‘animals’ has come up a few times in IELTS Speaking. In the below sample, this topic is narrowed to the subjects of ‘zoos’ and ‘wild animals’.

Step 1: Listen to this week’s sample.

Step 2: Watch the video version of this week’s podcast episode. Work through the sample speech shadowing exercise.

Step 3: Work through the full version of the exercise using the below video. (Click here if you do not yet have access to these full exercises.)

Step 4: Read through the below transcript and make note of any language items that were new or challenging for you this week.

Step 5: Post your weekly speaking samples to your Whatsapp group and wait for your instructor’s feedback.

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Transcript

Do you work or study?

I currently work as a retail sales associate for a well-known store in my city.

Where do you work?

I work at a hardware store that is located in the bustling commercial district of my city.

What do you like about your work?

Firstly, I love interacting with different customers daily and assisting them in finding products that suit their needs. It gives me great satisfaction to see customers leave the store happy with their purchases. Additionally, the retail industry allows me to stay updated with the latest trends and products, which aligns perfectly with my interest in home repairs and hobbyist activities. Moreover, the camaraderie among my colleagues creates a pleasant and supportive work environment, making each day enjoyable.

What would make your work more interesting?

While I find my work already fascinating, I believe it would become even more interesting with the implementation of regular training sessions. Learning about new sales techniques, customer service approaches and product knowledge would help me excel in my role and better serve our customers. Furthermore, having opportunities to attend industry events or participate in merchandising decisions would add a creative and dynamic aspect to my work, making it more engaging and fulfilling. Let’s talk about zoos.

Have you ever been to a zoo?

Yes, I have. There isn’t a zoo in my city but I have driven to The Moscow Zoo several times, which is about 90 minutes away. I find zoos to be an enriching experience, offering a wonderful chance to observe and learn about various animal species from around the world.

What wild animals are commonly found in your country?

In Russia, we are fortunate to have diverse wildlife. Commonly found species include brown bears, wolves, reindeer, elk, and various bird species such as swans, hawks, and falcons. Our vast landscapes also host rare and endangered animals like Siberian tigers and snow leopards. I believe I saw all of these animals at the zoo I was mentioning before.

What wild animal from another country would you like to see in the future?

One wild animal from another country that I would love to see in the future is the graceful and elusive cheetah from Africa. Witnessing the fastest land animal in its natural habitat would be an extraordinary experience, and it would offer me a profound appreciation for wildlife preservation efforts across the globe.

Lesson 109: Your job satisfaction😇

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This week, we look at a very common IELTS Speaking topic: your job!

Step 1: Listen to the sample. You can listen more than once if needed.

Step 2: Work through this week’s sample lesson below.

Step 3: Work through the below lesson. This is the full lesson that is made available to paid subscribers.

Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note any of the new or challenging language you came across this week. Review these areas in the coming weeks.

Step 5: Your instructor will post a speaking exercise each day this week. Submit your speaking sample to your Whatsapp group and wait for further feedback.

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Transcript

Where are you from?

I am from a vibrant city called Abuja, which is the capital of Nigeria. It’s a culturally rich place that attracts people and business from all around the world.

Do you work or study?

I currently work as a software engineer. After completing my degree in computer science, I joined a respected technology company where I have been working for the past three years.

Where do you work?

I work at XY Tech, a leading software development firm based in the heart of the city. It’s a dynamic and innovative workplace with a strong emphasis on cutting-edge technologies. The company has a reputation for delivering high-quality software solutions to clients across various industries.

Do you like your job?

Absolutely. I truly enjoy my job as a software engineer. It provides me with the opportunity to work on fascinating projects and collaborate with talented individuals. I find the process of designing and developing software immensely satisfying, and the feeling of creating something that can make a real impact is truly rewarding.

What are some of the benefits of doing this job?

One of the major benefits of working as a software engineer is the continuous learning and growth opportunities. This job allows me to enhance my technical skills and expand my knowledge base, which is invaluable in today’s rapidly changing world. Additionally, because software engineers are in high demand, the job offers a competitive salary and benefits package. I also have a very flexible work environment and the option to work remotely, which are perks I find appealing.

Are there any areas where you would like your company to change?

While I am quite satisfied with my current company, there are a few areas where I believe some improvements could be made. Firstly, I think it would be beneficial if the company invested more in professional development programmes and licensing opportunities. As I mentioned earlier, continuous learning is crucial in the technology field, and by providing employees with access to the latest courses and workshops, the company can ensure that its workforce remains highly skilled and up to date with emerging technologies.

I would also appreciate a more structured approach to our meetings. I usually have several meetings a day and because there is no standard company structure for these meetings, we often go overtime or talk about the same topic multiple times. A standard structure would keep meetings more streamlined and productive.

Aside from those items, I can’t think of anything else I would change.

Thank you.

Lesson 107: Friendship👬

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This week, we’re talking about friendship – a very common topic in IELTS Speaking.

Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

Step 2: Work through the sample exercise.

Step 3: Complete the full speech shadowing exercise.

Step 4: Read through the below transcript.

Step 5: Complete this week’s daily speech shadowing exercises with your Whatsapp instructor.

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Transcript

Where are you from?

I am originally from New York City.

Do you work or study?

Currently, I am pursuing my undergraduate degree in economics at the prestigious New York University. Although my main focus is on my studies, I also engage in part-time work to gain practical experience and support myself financially.

When do you feel happy at work?

I find happiness at work when I am fully engaged in meaningful tasks that align with my skills and interests. I also like working in a positive and supportive environment with friendly colleagues and I find this enhances my overall job satisfaction. Collaboration, mutual respect, and a sense of camaraderie foster a pleasant work atmosphere and contribute to my happiness in the workplace.

Let’s talk about friends. Do you have many friends?

Although I value quality over quantity when it comes to friendships, I am fortunate to have a close-knit circle of friends who are dependable, understanding and supportive. While the size of my social circle may not be extensive, the depth of the connections I have with my friends is truly meaningful. We share common interests and values, and we actively support each other through life’s ups and downs.

Is making friends easy for you?

I consider myself to be a sociable and outgoing individual, which generally makes it easier for me to make new friends. However, I believe that building deep and lasting friendships requires time, effort, and shared experiences. Thus, while I may find it relatively easy to establish initial connections, forming meaningful friendships requires investment and mutual understanding.

What sort of people do you most easily make friends with?

I find that I most easily make friends with individuals who share similar interests and values. I also appreciate people who are open-minded, empathetic, and possess a sense of humour. These qualities foster a comfortable and welcoming environment, making it easier for me to connect with them on a deeper level.