Cue Card

Describe a family business you know

You should say:

• What the business is
• How you know about it
• What products it sells
• Who the customers are
• And whether you like it

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of family businesses?
2. How do you become a successful businessperson in your country?
3. Do people in your country like to work for big companies or small companies?
4. Do you think family businesses are a positive development?

Sample Cue Card Answer

My family's been running a small Italian deli in Brooklyn for over 20 years. It's a staple in the neighborhood, and I've grown up watching my parents work tirelessly to keep the tradition alive. The smell of freshly baked bread and simmering sauce is etched in my memory, and I can almost taste the flavors of my childhood. My parents, both immigrants from Italy, brought their recipes and passion to America, and our deli became a taste of home for many locals.

As a kid, I'd help out with small tasks, learning the ins and outs of the business. I'd watch my mom expertly slice prosciutto and my dad craft the perfect meatball sub. Our deli's more than just a business – it's a gathering place for the community. Regulars come in daily, and my parents know their orders by heart. It's not uncommon to see three generations of families sitting at our tables, sharing stories and laughter over plates of pasta and pizza.

Despite the long hours and hard work, my parents never lost sight of what's truly important – family. They've taught me the value of dedication, hard work, and the importance of keeping traditions alive. As I've grown older, I've come to appreciate the sacrifices they made to build this business from scratch. Our deli's a testament to their love and perseverance, and I'm proud to be a part of it.

As I look to the future, I know I'll carry on the family legacy. I've learned the recipes, the business side, and the importance of community. I'll continue to innovate and adapt, but the core of our deli will remain the same – a place where people come together, share stories, and taste a little bit of Italy in the heart of Brooklyn.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

staple in the neighborhood

a person or thing that is considered essential or fundamental to a particular place or situation

The local diner is a staple in the neighborhood, serving breakfast to residents for decades.

taste of home

something that reminds one of their home or childhood

The smell of freshly baked cookies gave me a taste of home while I was away at college.

Sample Part 3 Answers

What are the advantages and disadvantages of family businesses? One of the biggest advantages of family businesses is the sense of trust and loyalty that comes with working with people you're related to. When everyone is on the same page and has the same goals, it can be a really powerful thing. For example, my friend's family owns a small bakery, and they're all super passionate about making the best pastries in town. Because they're all family, they can rely on each other to get the job done, and it shows in the quality of their products. On the other hand, one of the biggest disadvantages of family businesses is that it can be hard to separate work and family life. My friend's family is always talking about the bakery, even when they're not at work, and it can be overwhelming. Plus, if there's a disagreement, it can be hard to resolve because it's not just about the business, it's about family dynamics too.

How do you become a successful businessperson in your country? I think one of the most important things is to have a strong work ethic and be willing to put in the time and effort to learn and grow. My friend's family has been in the bakery business for years, and they're always looking for ways to improve and innovate. They attend conferences, take classes, and even travel to other countries to learn from other bakers. They're also super passionate about what they do, and that enthusiasm is infectious. When you're passionate about your business, you're more likely to put in the extra effort to make it succeed. Plus, they're always willing to take calculated risks and try new things, which has helped them stay ahead of the competition.

Do people in your country like to work for big companies or small companies? I think it really depends on the person and what they're looking for in a job. Some people love the security and benefits that come with working for a big company, while others prefer the flexibility and autonomy of working for a small business. My friend's family bakery is a small business, and they love the fact that they can make decisions quickly and easily without having to go through a lot of red tape. They also appreciate the close relationships they have with their customers and the sense of community that comes with being a small business. On the other hand, some people might prefer the resources and opportunities for advancement that come with working for a big company.

Do you think family businesses are a positive development? I think family businesses can be a really positive development, especially in terms of preserving traditional skills and knowledge. My friend's family bakery has been around for generations, and they've developed a unique style and recipe that's been passed down through the years. They're also able to keep their business in the community and create jobs for local people. Additionally, family businesses often have a strong sense of social responsibility and are more likely to give back to their community. However, it's also important to note that family businesses can be challenging to manage, especially when it comes to succession planning and family dynamics. But overall, I think family businesses can be a really positive force in the community.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

on the same page

to have the same goals, ideas, or understanding as someone else

The team was on the same page about the project goals.

The family was on the same page about the business strategy.