IELTS Speaking, parties 2 et 3 : Describe a person you know who has a successful business

Some people start their own business because they want to be their own boss or to make more money. Others turn a hobby into work, like baking or repairing phones. Also some start because they can't find a job. Starting a business is risky but people do it for independence.

People set up their own businesses for a mix of reasons: they want independence, they want to pursue a passion, or they spot a gap in the market. Often someone will 'take the plunge' after saving a bit or getting help from family or an investor. For many, being their own boss and having control over their time is the main attraction, even though it's risky.

I think governments should help start-ups a bit, especially with small grants or cheap loans. New businesses can create jobs and innovation. But support should not be unlimited because people need to manage well. Training and advice are also useful.

Yes, governments should support start-ups, but it should be targeted and sensible. Financial help like seed grants or repayable loans can kick-start innovative firms, while tax incentives and incubators help scale promising ideas. However, blanket subsidies can distort markets, so funding should be tied to clear goals and matched with mentorship and accountability.

Most people prefer big stores because they are cheap and have lots of choice. Big supermarkets are convenient and open late. But some people like small shops for better service and local products. It depends on what you want.

There's a clear trend towards big stores and online retailers because of price, convenience and range, but small shops survive by specialising. Independent shops, farmers' markets and boutiques attract customers with unique products, personal service and local connections. So while mass retail wins on scale, small stores win on character and niche appeal.

A business needs a good product and good service to be successful. It also needs the right price and a good location. Hard-working owners and loyal customers help a lot. Good advertising is useful too.

Success usually comes from a clear value proposition and consistent delivery: good product or service, excellent customer experience, and sound financial management. Marketing and brand identity help attract customers, while a strong team and efficient operations keep costs under control. Being able to adapt quickly to customer feedback or market changes is often decisive.

Businesses fail when they run out of money or their product is not good. Bad planning and too much competition also cause failure. Sometimes owners grow too fast and cannot manage costs.

Failure usually stems from poor market research, weak cashflow management or overexpansion. Leadership issues, lack of innovation and bad customer service can accelerate decline. External shocks, such as sudden regulatory change or a pandemic, also tip vulnerable firms over unless they have contingency plans.

Setting up a business in my country is fairly straightforward legally; you can register online and start trading. But finding money and customers is hard. There are rules about taxes and licences you must follow, which can be a bit confusing.

It's relatively easy to register a company and get started thanks to online procedures, but the real challenges are practical: securing funding, navigating tax rules, licences and business rates, and finding customers. There is plenty of support available — business advisers and local schemes — but competition and cashflow are the main hurdles new owners face.