Cue Card

Describe a successful small business

You should say:

• What kind of business it is
• How you know about it
• What the business’ reputation is like
• What kind of products they sell
• And explain how you feel about it.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Which do you prefer most: family businesses or non-family businesses?
2. What is required to make a company successful?
3. What qualities do successful businesspeople have?
4. Which emerging industries do you know about?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I want to tell you about a small business that's been a game-changer in my neighborhood. It's a tiny, independent bookstore that's been around for years, but has somehow managed to thrive in the age of Amazon. The owner, Rachel, has a genius approach to running her store. She doesn't just sell books - she creates an experience. Every time you walk in, you're hit with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sound of indie music playing in the background. The shelves are curated with a personal touch, featuring local authors and hidden gems that you won't find on any bestseller list.

But what really sets Rachel's store apart is her commitment to community. She hosts book clubs, writing workshops, and even partners with local schools to get kids excited about reading. She's created a space where people can come together, share ideas, and feel like they're part of something bigger than themselves. And it's paid off - the store is always bustling with people, and the loyalty of her customers is palpable.

Rachel's success isn't just about selling books - it's about creating a sense of belonging. She's tapped into something fundamental to human nature: our desire for connection and community. In an age where online shopping has made it easier to isolate ourselves, Rachel's store is a beacon of hope. It shows us that with a little creativity and a lot of heart, small businesses can not only survive, but thrive.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

game-changer

Something or someone that has a significant and positive impact

The new policy has been a game-changer for the company.

She's a game-changer in the world of tech.

curated

Carefully selected and presented to create a specific atmosphere or effect

The museum's curated exhibit features works by local artists.

The chef curated a special menu for the event.

bustling

Full of activity and energy

The city square was bustling with people on New Year's Eve.

The restaurant was bustling with customers on a Friday night.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Which do you prefer most: family businesses or non-family businesses? You know, I think what I think is really interesting about family businesses is the sense of legacy and tradition that often comes with them. I mean, when a family has been in a particular industry for generations, they've had time to develop a real expertise and a deep understanding of what their customers need. And that can be a huge advantage when it comes to building a loyal customer base and creating a successful business. Plus, family businesses often have a strong sense of values and mission that's been passed down through the years, which can be a powerful motivator for employees and customers alike.

What is required to make a company successful? I think one of the most important things that's required to make a company successful is a willingness to adapt and evolve. The business landscape is constantly changing, and companies that are able to pivot quickly in response to new trends and technologies are the ones that tend to thrive. This might mean being open to new ideas and perspectives, or being willing to take calculated risks to stay ahead of the competition. When a company is able to stay nimble and responsive, it's better able to meet the changing needs of its customers and stay ahead of the curve.

What qualities do successful businesspeople have? One quality that I think is really essential for successful businesspeople is resilience. Starting and running a business can be incredibly challenging, and there are going to be setbacks and failures along the way. But the people who are able to bounce back from those failures, to learn from their mistakes, and to keep moving forward are the ones who tend to achieve their goals. This might mean being able to manage stress and uncertainty, or being able to reframe challenges as opportunities for growth. When businesspeople can cultivate that kind of resilience, they're able to stay focused and motivated even in the toughest of times.

Which emerging industries do you know about? I'm really fascinated by the growth of the sustainable energy industry. As concern about climate change continues to grow, companies that are working on renewable energy sources like solar and wind power are really taking off. And it's not just the technology itself that's exciting - it's also the potential for sustainable energy to create new jobs and stimulate local economies. I think this is an area that's going to continue to see a lot of innovation and investment in the coming years, and it's definitely an industry to watch.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

sense of legacy

a feeling of pride and tradition that comes from being part of a long-standing family business

I think what I think is really interesting about family businesses is the sense of legacy and tradition that often comes with them.

pivot quickly

to change direction or adjust plans quickly in response to new information or circumstances

I think one of the most important things that's required to make a company successful is a willingness to adapt and evolve, to pivot quickly in response to new trends and technologies.

stay ahead of the curve

to be more advanced or successful than others in a particular field or activity

When a company is able to stay nimble and responsive, it's better able to meet the changing needs of its customers and stay ahead of the curve.

bounce back

to recover quickly from a difficult or challenging situation

One quality that I think is really essential for successful businesspeople is resilience, being able to bounce back from those failures and keep moving forward.

renewable energy sources

energy sources that can be replenished naturally, such as solar and wind power

I'm really fascinated by the growth of the sustainable energy industry, which includes renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.