Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Future of Work” ESL Discussion Questions

I. Technological Advancements
1. How might robots change the way we work?
2. What is artificial intelligence and how could it impact jobs?
3. Can you think of some jobs that might be done by computers in the future?
4. What skills do we need to work with new technologies?
5. How can technology create new job opportunities?

II. Remote Work
6. What are the benefits of working from home?
7. What challenges do people face when working remotely?
8. How do you think companies can support remote workers?
9. What tools do we use for remote work?
10. Do you think remote work is good for work-life balance?

III. The Gig Economy
11. What is the gig economy?
12. How might short-term jobs replace traditional careers?
13. What are the benefits of freelance work?
14. What are the risks of gig work?
15. How do you think the gig economy will grow?

IV. Workplace Environment
16. What does a modern office look like?
17. How important is a green and sustainable workplace?
18. What kind of work spaces encourage productivity?
19. How can offices adapt to different work styles?
20. What role does mental health play in the workplace?

V. Skills and Education
21. What new skills will be important in the future?
22. How can workers stay up-to-date with industry changes?
23. Why is lifelong learning important for careers?
24. How might education systems change to prepare us for future work?
25. What is the role of creativity in future jobs?

VI. Work-Life Balance
26. What is work-life balance?
27. How can companies help employees with work-life balance?
28. Why is time off important for workers?
29. What flexible work options do you think will be available?
30. How does technology affect our work-life balance?

VII. Global Workforce
31. How can people work with others around the world?
32. What benefits come from a diverse workforce?
33. How might language barriers be overcome in the workplace?
34. What are the advantages of cultural exchange in business?
35. What challenges do international companies face?

VIII. Job Security and Change
36. What industries do you think will grow in the future?
37. How can workers prepare for job changes?
38. Why might some jobs disappear?
39. How can job security be created in a changing work environment?
40. What role do governments have in job security?

IX. Corporate Responsibility
41. What is corporate social responsibility?
42. How can businesses be more ethical?
43. What is the impact of companies on local communities?
44. How can companies contribute to a sustainable future?
45. Why is transparency important in business?

X. Leadership and Management
46. What qualities will leaders need in the future?
47. How will management styles evolve?
48. What is the role of innovation in leadership?
49. How can managers support continuous learning?
50. What makes a good team in the future?

XI. Workforce Demographics
51. How is the aging population affecting the workforce?
52. What impact do younger generations have on work?
53. How can workplaces be made more accessible?
54. What is the importance of gender diversity in work?
55. How can companies support working parents?

XII. Predictions and Preparations
56. How can we predict future job trends?
57. What can you do now to prepare for future work changes?
58. How important will entrepreneurship be?
59. What might be the biggest challenge for the future of work?
60. How can we ensure that the future of work is fair for everyone?