A Small Business You Would Like to Start

🗂️ Part 2 – Cue Card

🗣️ Sample Answer

If I had the opportunity, I would like to start a home-based baking business that specialises in custom cakes and cupcakes. Baking has always been my passion, and I often make birthday cakes for friends and family. Many people in my neighborhood have encouraged me to turn this hobby into something more professional.

I would begin by setting up a dedicated kitchen space at home, buying good-quality baking tools, and creating an Instagram page to showcase my creations. I’d also attend a short business course to understand pricing, delivery, and customer service better. At first, I would focus on weekend orders and expand slowly based on customer feedback.

I believe it could be a successful business because customised baked goods are in high demand for birthdays, weddings, and baby showers. With the right effort and consistent quality, I think people would return for more and recommend it to others.

🔁 Part 3: Follow-Up Questions

1. Why are small businesses important in a country’s economy?
Small businesses create local jobs and promote innovation. They help support families and often provide personalised services that large corporations can’t. They also contribute to the economy by paying taxes and supporting local supply chains.

2. What challenges do small business owners face?
They often struggle with funding, marketing, and competition from bigger companies. Managing everything alone—like finances, operations, and sales—can be overwhelming. Many also find it hard to balance business and personal life.

3. Do young people in your country like to start small businesses?
Yes, especially with the rise of online platforms and social media marketing. Many young people want independence and prefer running their own ventures over traditional jobs. Startups in tech, fashion, and food are very popular now.

4. What support should governments provide to small businesses?
Governments can offer low-interest loans, business training, and tax benefits. Providing co-working spaces and reducing red tape also help. Policies that support digital infrastructure are especially important today.

5. What qualities are needed to run a small business successfully?
A business owner needs persistence, creativity, and good time-management skills. They should also know how to communicate with customers and adapt to changes. Financial discipline is equally important.

6. Do you think social media helps small businesses grow?
Definitely. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook allow businesses to reach wider audiences without huge costs. Social media helps build brand identity and interact directly with customers.

7. Are family-run businesses still common in your country?
Yes, especially in traditional sectors like grocery stores, tailoring, or farming. These businesses often pass down through generations. However, they are now combining tradition with modern tools like online delivery.

8. What kind of small businesses are most popular today?
E-commerce stores, food delivery, digital content creation, and handmade crafts are trending. Many also start freelancing services like design or tutoring. Convenience and creativity drive modern small businesses.

9. How can small businesses compete with large corporations?
They can offer personalised services and build strong relationships with customers. Flexibility and innovation are also their strengths. By focusing on niche markets, they can succeed even in competitive industries.

10. What role does technology play in small business growth?
Technology makes operations faster and easier. From online payments to digital marketing and inventory tracking, tech reduces cost and effort. It also opens global markets through e-commerce platforms.

Top 10 Topic Vocabulary – A Small Business You Would Like to Start