Selected session: Jan 2025
Question 1(a): Short note on the different kinds of “customers” you meet at work
What “customer” means in a workplace
In a workplace, a “customer” is anyone who receives a service, information, or a product from you. Customers are not only outsiders who buy something; they can also be people inside the organisation who depend on your work to do their job.
Main types of customers (simple classification)
- External customers: people outside the organisation (clients, buyers, visitors, patients, students, passengers, subscribers).
- Internal customers: colleagues, departments, or managers who need your input (for example, Accounts needs your bills; HR needs your documents; your team needs your updates).
Workplace-focused categories you commonly see
- Existing customers: already using your service; they expect quick support and consistency.
- Prospective customers: may become customers; they judge you from the first interaction and look for clarity and confidence.
- Business-to-business customers: an organisation dealing with another organisation (a vendor, partner, agency).
- Direct consumers: an individual customer communicating by email, phone, or messaging apps.
A realistic workplace example
If you work in an office where you send updates to a senior, that senior becomes your internal customer. If you reply to a service query on email, the person writing is your external customer. In both cases, your job is the same: communicate clearly, respond on time, and keep the interaction professional.
Question 1(b): Short note on the key characteristics of good work ethics
Meaning
Work ethics means the professional values and habits that guide how we work and how we treat people at work. It is not only about “working hard”; it is also about working responsibly and respectfully.
Core characteristics (student-friendly list)
- Punctuality and discipline: being on time for meetings, deadlines, and commitments.
- Honesty and integrity: sharing correct information, not hiding mistakes, and not taking unfair credit.
- Responsibility: completing tasks without repeated reminders and updating others when something changes.
- Respectful behaviour: using polite language, listening properly, and avoiding rude or aggressive communication.
- Team spirit: cooperating, sharing information, and supporting others when work is shared.
- Professional communication: keeping messages clear, relevant, and appropriate to the workplace.
How it looks in real situations
For example, during a group discussion or meeting, work ethics shows when a person does not interrupt repeatedly, speaks with clarity, and stays focused on the topic. In email or messaging, it shows when someone respects time boundaries, avoids unnecessary messages, and writes with a professional tone.
Question 1(c): Short note on common trends in e-communication
What e-communication includes today
E-communication in the workplace is no longer limited to email. It now includes instant messaging, group communication, online file-sharing, audio/video meetings, and quick updates through digital tools.
Common trends (easy points)
- Faster, shorter messages: people prefer brief and direct updates instead of long paragraphs, especially on messaging apps.
- Multi-channel communication: the same work may involve email for formal records, and messaging apps for quick coordination.
- Use of short forms: abbreviations like “asap” and “pfa” are commonly used in professional contexts when appropriate.
- More group communication: teams use groups for announcements and coordination, so clarity and relevance become very important.
- Attachments and links: sending documents as attachments (for example, a pdf file) and sharing cloud links has become routine.
- Netiquette and boundaries: workplaces increasingly expect respectful language, clear identity (real names), and avoiding unnecessary messages after working hours.
Practical example
A realistic pattern is: a manager sends a formal instruction by email (so it stays on record), but the team confirms small details on a messaging group. This saves time, but only works well when messages are brief, numbered (if needed), and sent to the right person with a clear purpose.
Question 1(d): Short note on behaviour code at the workplace
Meaning
A behaviour code at the workplace is the expected standard of conduct that helps people work smoothly together. It includes how we speak, write, listen, participate in meetings, and manage professional relationships.
Key elements of workplace behaviour code
- Professional communication: use clear language, suitable tone, and correct level of formality for the situation.
- Listening and turn-taking: do not dominate discussions; avoid frequent interruptions; respond logically to what others say.
- Respect and inclusion: disagree politely, avoid personal comments, and allow others to participate.
- Confidentiality: do not share private organisational information casually in groups or on informal platforms.
- Time discipline: be punctual, keep meetings focused, and avoid unnecessary messaging after work hours.
- Digital professionalism: avoid unrelated forwards/jokes in official groups; keep messages relevant and business-focused.
Real-life workplace example
In a discussion, behaviour code is shown when you speak with confidence but still let others speak, keep your points connected, and move the discussion forward. In e-communication, behaviour code is shown when you write a proper subject line, stay polite, and avoid sending casual “Good morning” messages without a purpose in a business group.
Question 2(1): Write briefly about your dream job and how you plan to make it a reality
My dream job
My dream job is to work as an English Language Trainer in a reputed institute where I can teach communication skills for academic and workplace situations. I want a role where I can train learners in speaking, presentations, interview skills, and professional writing.
My step-by-step plan
- Build strong language competence: practise grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and fluency daily through structured reading and speaking tasks.
- Learn teaching methods: complete a short teacher-training course (for example, a certificate in English teaching) and study lesson planning, classroom management, and assessment techniques.
- Create practical training content: develop session plans on workplace topics such as group discussions, presentations, and business emails.
- Gain experience: start with small opportunities such as tutoring juniors, volunteering in spoken English clubs, or conducting workshops.
- Build evidence of work: maintain a small portfolio of lesson plans, worksheets, feedback forms, and sample student outcomes.
- Prepare for recruitment: practise interview answers, demonstration lessons, and professional email/letter writing for applications.
How I will measure progress
I will treat every month like a target cycle: improve one skill (for example, fluency or business writing), collect feedback from learners, and refine my training style. This keeps the plan realistic and helps me grow consistently.
Question 2(2): Explain the importance of body language during interviews
Why body language matters
In interviews, the interviewer evaluates not only what you say but also how you say it. Body language communicates confidence, attentiveness, professionalism, and interpersonal skills—qualities that are important in most jobs.
Key body language signals and what they communicate
- Posture: sitting upright suggests confidence and readiness; slouching can look careless or tired.
- Eye contact: balanced eye contact shows honesty and engagement; avoiding it can look uncertain.
- Facial expression: a calm, pleasant expression helps you appear approachable and stable under pressure.
- Hand gestures: controlled gestures can support clarity; excessive movements can distract.
- Voice and pace: clear voice, steady pace, and appropriate pauses show control and good communication.
- Listening behaviour: nodding lightly, not interrupting, and responding logically shows maturity and teamwork.
A practical interview example
If a candidate gives a good answer but keeps looking down, fidgeting, or interrupting, the interviewer may doubt the candidate’s confidence and workplace manners. On the other hand, positive body language—calm posture, clear voice, and respectful listening—makes even an average answer sound more convincing and professional.
Question 2(3): Make a presentation for your organisation on why a portfolio is essential while applying for a position
Presentation Title
“Why a Portfolio Matters: Proof of Skills, Not Just Claims”
Opening (30–40 seconds)
Good morning. Today I will explain why a portfolio is an essential part of hiring, especially when a job needs practical skills. A portfolio reduces hiring risk because it shows real work, real thinking, and real outcomes.
Slide/Point 1: What a portfolio is
- A portfolio is a curated collection of work samples.
- It can include projects, reports, designs, writing samples, presentations, or case summaries.
- It shows both process (how work was done) and result (final output).
Slide/Point 2: Why the organisation benefits
- Better skill verification: the candidate’s ability is visible, not assumed.
- Faster shortlisting: recruiters can compare candidates more quickly.
- Reduced training risk: work samples indicate how much support a candidate may need.
- Better role fit: portfolios show strengths (for example, creativity, clarity, attention to detail).
Slide/Point 3: Why the candidate benefits
- Helps candidates stand out beyond marks and certificates.
- Builds confidence during interviews because they can explain real work.
- Creates a professional identity and shows consistency.
Slide/Point 4: What a strong portfolio should include
- 3–6 best samples (quality matters more than quantity).
- A short note for each sample: goal, tools/skills used, role played, outcome.
- One case that shows problem-solving (challenge → action → result).
- Clean structure and easy navigation (PDF or link-based).
Closing (20 seconds)
To conclude, a portfolio supports better hiring decisions because it shows evidence of capability. It strengthens transparency for both the organisation and the applicant. Thank you.
Question 2(4): Write a covering letter for the post of Web Designer, showing suitability
Covering Letter (Web Designer)
From:
Rahul Sharma
New Delhi
Mobile: 9XXXXXXXXX
Email: rahul.sharma@email.com
Date: 13 January 2026
To:
The Hiring Manager
XYZ Digital Solutions
New Delhi
Subject: Application for the position of Web Designer
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to apply for the position of Web Designer at XYZ Digital Solutions. I learned about this opening through your company’s careers page and I am confident that my design skills, website-building experience, and strong communication abilities make me a suitable candidate for this role.
I have hands-on experience in designing responsive web pages using HTML, CSS, and WordPress. During my recent projects, I focused on clean layouts, readable typography, and user-friendly navigation. I am also comfortable working with design tools such as Figma/Canva and converting designs into practical website pages. Along with design, I understand the importance of deadlines, teamwork, and clear coordination with content and development teams.
What attracts me to your organisation is your strong digital portfolio and the variety of client projects you handle. I would value the opportunity to contribute to your team by creating visually consistent, mobile-friendly, and user-focused web experiences.
I have attached my resume for your review. I would be happy to attend an interview at a time convenient to you and share my work samples/portfolio during the discussion.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Yours faithfully,
Rahul Sharma
Question 3(1): Prepare a CV for a job you wish to apply for (qualifications, experience, achievements)
Curriculum Vitae (Web Designer)
Rahul Sharma
New Delhi, India
Mobile: 9XXXXXXXXX
Email: rahul.sharma@email.com
Portfolio: www.myportfolio-example.com
Career Objective
To work as a Web Designer in a growth-oriented organisation where I can apply my design skills, improve user experience, and deliver responsive websites with clear and professional communication.
Education
- B.A. (General), IGNOU — Pursuing / Completed (Year)
- Certificate Course in Web Design / UI Basics (Year)
Key Skills
- HTML5, CSS3, basic JavaScript
- WordPress (theme customization, page builders)
- Responsive design and basic UI principles
- Figma/Canva (wireframes, banners, basic UI layouts)
- Basic SEO understanding (page titles, headings, image alt text)
- Professional writing for emails, documentation, and client updates
Projects / Portfolio Highlights
- Business Website (WordPress): Designed a 5-page responsive website with clear navigation, contact form, and mobile-friendly layout.
- Landing Page Design: Created a product landing page focusing on readability, call-to-action placement, and visual consistency.
- Blog Layout Improvement: Improved spacing, headings, and internal linking structure to enhance user experience.
Work Experience / Practical Exposure
- Freelance / Internship Web Tasks (Duration)
Assisted in updating webpages, fixing layout issues, and formatting blog posts for readability and consistency.
Achievements
- Completed multiple design tasks with deadline discipline and consistent formatting.
- Received positive feedback for clear communication and quick revisions.
Strengths
- Clarity in communication, willingness to learn, attention to detail
- Comfortable working in a team and taking feedback constructively
Personal Details
- Languages: English, Hindi
- Location: New Delhi (open to relocation if required)
Declaration
I hereby declare that the information given above is true to the best of my knowledge.
Place: New Delhi
Date: _
Signature: Rahul Sharma
Question 3(2): Ten interview questions you may face for “English Language Trainer” and sample answers
- Question: Tell us about yourself and why you want to be an English Language Trainer.
Answer: I enjoy helping learners improve confidence in speaking and writing. I want to become a trainer because I like structured teaching, practical communication tasks, and seeing measurable improvement in learners over time. - Question: What teaching approach do you follow for speaking skills?
Answer: I use a step-by-step method: warm-up, vocabulary support, guided speaking (pair/group tasks), short role-plays, and feedback. I focus on clarity, fluency, and correctness without discouraging the learner. - Question: How will you handle a student who is shy and avoids speaking?
Answer: I will start with low-pressure tasks like short answers, pair practice, and supportive prompts. I will praise effort, not only accuracy, and gradually increase speaking time so the learner feels safe and confident. - Question: How do you correct mistakes without embarrassing learners?
Answer: I use gentle correction strategies: reformulation (repeating the sentence correctly), delayed feedback after the activity, and focusing on 1–2 key errors at a time instead of correcting every line. - Question: What role does body language play in training? Answer: Body language supports understanding and confidence. As a trainer, I maintain friendly eye contact, clear voice, and calm posture. It encourages participation and creates a positive classroom atmosphere.
- Question: How do you plan a lesson for workplace communication?
Answer: I plan around a real workplace outcome—like writing a professional email or handling a discussion. I include inputs (useful phrases), practice (tasks/role-play), and a short evaluation (checklist or quick activity). - Question: How will you teach business email writing?
Answer: I teach structure first: subject line, greeting, purpose, key details in bullet points, polite closing, and clarity. Then I give practice tasks like rewriting informal messages into professional emails. - Question: How do you keep learners engaged in a long session?
Answer: I break the session into small activities: discussion, short writing, role-play, and feedback. I keep tasks practical and time-bound, and I involve learners through questions and group work. - Question: How do you evaluate learner progress?
Answer: I use simple rubrics for speaking (clarity, fluency, vocabulary, accuracy) and short writing checks for emails/letters. I also compare recordings or writing samples over time to show improvement. - Question: Why should we hire you for this position?
Answer: I bring strong communication skills, a learner-friendly teaching style, and a practical workplace focus. I can help students improve speaking, presentations, and professional writing through structured practice and supportive feedback.
These solutions have been prepared and corrected by subject experts using the prescribed IGNOU study material for this course code to support your practice and revision in the IGNOU answer format.
Use them for learning support only, and always verify the final answers and guidelines with the official IGNOU study material and the latest updates from IGNOU’s official sources.