Part 1 questions frequently focus on business and entrepreneurship. Let’s explore effective strategies to describe a small business you know that is successful and achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Common questions include:
- Do you have any friends who run their own business?
- Would you like to start your own business in the future?
- What makes small businesses successful in your opinion?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Well, I believe several factors contribute to small business success. First and foremost, effective financial management and a clear understanding of the target market are crucial. Additionally, maintaining high-quality customer service and adapting to changing market conditions play vital roles in ensuring long-term sustainability.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a small business that has been successful in your area
You should say:
- What the business is
- Who runs it
- How it became successful
- And explain why you think it is successful
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about describe a recent day trip you enjoyed to a thriving local bakery that has become incredibly successful in my neighborhood. The business, called ‘Sweet Delights,’ is expertly managed by Sarah Chen, a former corporate executive who pursued her passion for baking.
What makes this venture particularly remarkable is how it evolved from a modest home-based operation into a well-established neighborhood institution. Sarah implemented innovative strategies like offering specialized dietary options and utilizing social media marketing effectively. She also describe a person who is very hardworking through her dedication to quality and customer service.
The bakery’s success can be attributed to several factors. Primarily, Sarah’s attention to detail and commitment to excellence have earned her a loyal customer base. Moreover, she consistently adapts her product range based on customer feedback and market trends.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: What challenges do small businesses face in today’s economy?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Small businesses today face multiple complex challenges. The most significant is perhaps dealing with intense competition from large corporations and e-commerce giants. Additionally, they must describe a time when you met someone who inspired you to overcome obstacles like securing adequate funding, managing cash flow effectively, and adapting to rapidly changing consumer preferences.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
- Market penetration /ˈmɑːkɪt ˌpenɪˈtreɪʃn/ (n): The extent to which a product or service is recognized and bought by customers
- Revenue stream /ˈrevənjuː striːm/ (n): Sources of income for a business
- Entrepreneurial mindset /ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜːriəl ˈmaɪndset/ (n): The set of attitudes typical of successful business owners
Expert Tip: When discussing business success, always provide specific examples and demonstrate analytical thinking by explaining cause-and-effect relationships. Consider how describe a new restaurant or café that opened in your area has achieved success through similar strategies.