Cue Card

Describe a time you were friendly to someone you don’t like

You should say:

• When it happened
• Where you were
• Who they were
• Why you don’t like this person
• And explain why you were friendly to them on that occasion.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Why are people friendly with people they don’t like.
2. What kinds of people are usually friendly?
3. What are the differences between being friendly and being polite?
4. What do you think of people who are always straightforward?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I remember this one coworker, let's call her Karen. We worked in the same office, but we couldn't be more different. She was always gossiping, and I'm more of a keep-to-myself kind of person. We'd have these awkward encounters in the break room, and I'd try to avoid her as much as possible. But one day, she came in late, looking frazzled, and spilled coffee all over her shirt. I could've easily just laughed it off and walked away, but something about her desperation struck a chord. I offered to grab her a spare shirt from the lost and found, and we ended up chatting for a bit while she changed. Turns out, she was going through a tough time, and that morning was just the cherry on top of a terrible week.

As we talked, I realized that even though we weren't exactly friends, I could still be kind to her. I didn't have to like her to be friendly. And you know what? It actually made our working relationship better. We still didn't become best buds or anything, but the tension between us dissipated. It was a small act of kindness, but it made a big difference. I learned that being friendly to someone you don't particularly like doesn't mean you're condoning their behavior or becoming their best friend. It just means you're choosing to be a decent human being, even when it's hard.

It's funny, because after that, I started noticing how often I'd do the opposite – be short or dismissive with people I didn't particularly care for. And I realized that's not who I want to be. I want to be the person who can be kind, even when it's hard. Not because I'm trying to change the other person, but because I'm trying to be a better version of myself. So, the next time you encounter someone you don't particularly like, try being friendly. You never know what's going on in their life, and a little bit of kindness can go a long way.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

kill them with kindness

to be extremely kind to someone who is being unpleasant or difficult, in order to make them feel bad about their behavior

She's always gossiping about me, but I just kill her with kindness and ignore her negativity.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Why are people friendly with people they don’t like. So, I think people are friendly with those they don’t like because, well, it's just easier that way. Let's face it, we can't always choose who we interact with, especially in work or school settings. Being friendly, even if you don't particularly like someone, can diffuse tension and make those interactions less awkward. Plus, you never know when you might need to ask for a favor or collaborate on a project, and being on good terms can make all the difference. I mean, think about it, if you're friendly with someone, they're more likely to want to help you out, even if they're not your best friend. It's all about building relationships and making life easier for yourself, you know? I mean, not that I'm saying you should be fake or anything, but a little friendliness can go a long way.

What kinds of people are usually friendly? In my experience, people who are naturally outgoing and empathetic tend to be the friendliest. They're the ones who can easily put themselves in others' shoes and understand where they're coming from. I think people who are good listeners are also super friendly. When someone takes the time to really hear you out and respond thoughtfully, it makes you feel seen and heard, you know? And that's a really powerful thing. Plus, people who are confident and comfortable in their own skin tend to be more friendly too. They're not trying to prove anything or compete with anyone, so they're more likely to be warm and welcoming to others.

What are the differences between being friendly and being polite? To me, being friendly and being polite are related but distinct. Being polite is more about following social norms and being respectful, whereas being friendly is about genuinely connecting with someone. When you're polite, you're doing the minimum to avoid offending someone or causing tension. But when you're friendly, you're actively trying to build a connection and make someone feel at ease. For example, holding the door open for someone is polite, but asking them how their day is going and really listening to their response is friendly. One is more superficial, while the other is more meaningful.

What do you think of people who are always straightforward? Honestly, I think people who are always straightforward are really refreshing. In a world where everyone's trying to sugarcoat things or avoid conflict, it's nice to have someone who just tells it like it is. Of course, there's a fine line between being straightforward and being brutal, but when done right, it can be really liberating. I mean, think about it, when someone is always honest with you, you know exactly where you stand. There's no guessing or wondering what they really mean. And that can be really freeing. Plus, people who are straightforward tend to be more authentic and trustworthy, which is something I really value in relationships.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

diffuse tension

to reduce or relieve tension or conflict

Her friendly demeanor helped diffuse the tension in the room.

The comedian's jokes helped diffuse the awkwardness.

on good terms

in a state of friendship or mutual respect

They're on good terms with their ex.

The two companies are on good terms and often collaborate.

build relationships

to establish and maintain connections with others

Networking is all about building relationships.

She's great at building relationships with her clients.