It is better to be a member of a group than to be the leader of a group

IELTS Writing Task 2 with sample answer.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Do you agree or disagree with the following statement?

It is better to be a member of a group than to be the leader of a group.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Answer:
Leadership, in common parlance, is the ability to translate the vision into reality. Most people prefer to be a member of a team while there are few who want to become the leader of the team. However, I always want to lead a team or group. The following reasons can explain why.

First of all, as a group leader I have a higher potential to influence the activities and trajectory of a group. Although an effective leader tends to discuss with others and encourages other members to share ideas or options, he usually has prerogative power to sway decisions. This allows the leader to either assert options or ideas that he prefers professionally or personally, or simply to demonstrate his control over the group. Take me as an example. I am the leader of our community welfare organization. Sometimes I make decision by discussing with other members and sometimes I make decision on my own. Not only can it help me to select better option but also it is conducive for controlling the team so that there creates no haphazard situation.

Secondly, being a leader, an individual can build a positive image. One can develop a distinct professional and personal image, though closely tied to a group, by separating himself by title or through personal persuasion. For instance, when my team earns success, I, as a team leader, generally gain favor within the team as well as other work groups. And eventually, I am able to create a good reputation of me. Besides, a true leader can open a new avenue to challenge present status quo in order to accomplish goals in a better way. So, the leader always thrives for excellence and in his endeavor he can learn and experience myriad of things.

To wrap up, being a leader, a man can direct the whole works or assignment and at the same time he can develop a strong image for the group as well as a personal reputation. That is why, I contend that it is far better to be a leader of group than be a merely member.