Describe a small business you would like to start

IELTS Cue Card/ Candidate Task Card 592 with Model Answer:

Describe a small business you would like to start.

You should say:

• what type of business it is
• what preparation you think you need to start it
• when you plan to start it

and explain why you want to start this small business.

[You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes. You have one minute to think about what you are going to say. You can make some notes to help you if you wish.]

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Model Answer 1:

Thank you so much for this interesting topic. For this topic, I'd like to talk about a small business that I've often dreamt of starting - which is a sustainable and locally sourced artisanal bakery and café. I am so glad to be able to talk about it here.

The core of this business would be a bakery that focuses on producing high-quality, handcrafted bread, pastries, and cakes using locally sourced, organic ingredients whenever possible. Alongside the bakery, there would be a small, cosy café space where customers could enjoy these freshly baked goods with coffee and tea, as well as light lunch options featuring seasonal ingredients from local farms. The emphasis would be on creating a community hub that promotes sustainable practices and supports local producers.

In terms of preparation, I envision several key stages. Firstly, thorough market research would be crucial to understand the local demand for artisanal baked goods and identify potential competitors. Developing a unique selling proposition, perhaps focusing on specific dietary needs like gluten-free or vegan options using local ingredients, would be important. Secondly, I would need to develop a detailed business plan, including financial projections, operational strategies, and a marketing plan to reach the target audience. Securing funding, possibly through a small business loan or personal investment, would be the next significant step. Following this, finding a suitable location with a kitchen and café space, obtaining the necessary licenses and permits, and sourcing high-quality equipment and reliable local suppliers would be essential. Finally, building a skilled team of bakers, baristas, and service staff who share the vision for quality and sustainability would be paramount.

My current plan is to start this business within the next two to three years. This timeframe allows me to gain more experience in the food industry, potentially by working in a similar establishment, to refine my business plan, and to build the necessary capital and network of suppliers. I believe this timeline is realistic and allows for careful planning and execution.

My motivation for starting this small business stems from several factors. Firstly, I have a genuine passion for baking and creating delicious, wholesome food. There's immense satisfaction in the process and in seeing people enjoy something you've made with your own hands. Secondly, I strongly believe in supporting local economies and promoting sustainable practices. By sourcing ingredients locally and minimizing waste, the bakery and café could contribute to a more resilient and environmentally conscious community. Finally, I see a growing demand for authentic, high-quality food experiences and a desire for community spaces. So, please wish me luck so that I can make my small business successful.

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Model Answer 2:

 
Oh, thank you very much for this topic. It will enable me to talk about one of my dreams - which is starting a small business. The business I would love to start is a digital marketing agency. Given the increasing reliance on online platforms and social media for business promotion, I believe this is a venture with immense potential.

The services would primarily focus on helping small businesses improve their online presence through social media management, search engine optimization (SEO), content creation, and online advertising. It would cater to local businesses, startups, and e-commerce brands looking to make a mark in the digital world.

To start this business, there are several key preparations that I think are crucial. First, I would need to acquire some certifications in areas such as Google Ads, SEO, and content marketing. Although I have a background in marketing, I would invest in further training to make sure I am up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in the field. Additionally, I would need to create a professional website for the business, design marketing materials, and establish an online presence. Building a network of potential clients is also vital, so I would focus on local networking events and using platforms like LinkedIn to connect with potential clients.

I plan to start this business in the next year. By this time, I hope to have finished my professional certifications and built an initial portfolio of clients, perhaps through freelance work, to gain experience. I also intend to save enough capital to cover the initial setup costs, including marketing, website development, and legal fees.

The reason I want to start this small business is because I am passionate about both entrepreneurship and digital marketing. I have seen first-hand how powerful an effective online presence can be in transforming a small business into a recognized brand. Moreover, I enjoy the creativity involved in digital marketing, whether it's designing ad campaigns, crafting engaging content, or strategizing social media outreach. I also see this business as a way to contribute to the growth of other small businesses while creating a flexible career for myself. The potential for growth in the digital marketing industry is immense, and I believe it aligns perfectly with my skill set and future goals.