Describe a time you were late.

Sample answer (estimated band 7.5)

I'll talk about a time I was late for an important job interview at a small design studio in Riverton, which was about two years ago. I had been cutting it fine that morning because I wanted to squeeze in a quick practice session beforehand. The bus I usually take was delayed after a minor accident and, to my surprise, my phone alarm didn’t go off due to a power cut overnight. I tried to find another way and even started cycling, but then I got a puncture and had to walk the last part. By the time I arrived I was roughly twenty-five minutes late, and I ended up apologising profusely to the hiring manager. They were quite professional and let me in, but the mood had shifted and I could tell I hadn't made the best first impression. I answered the questions as clearly as I could, but ultimately I didn't get the job. It was embarrassing at the time, but a lesson learned — since then I always allow extra travel time, set two alarms and have a backup route. On a later occasion I arrived in the nick of time because I left earlier, so that confirmed for me that a little extra preparation prevents a lot of stress.

Part 3 discussion questions

1. Why do many people arrive late to appointments or meetings?
2. How does lateness affect businesses and other organisations?
3. Should employers be strict about punctuality? Why or why not?
4. How do cultural attitudes to time differ between countries?
5. Can technology help reduce lateness? In what ways?

Part 1 questions: Daily routines

1. What time do you usually wake up?
2. Do you follow a fixed schedule every day?
3. How do you usually travel to work or school?
4. Have your daily routines changed recently?
5. Do you prefer to plan your day or be spontaneous?