Warm-Up Video
Watch this talk about what it really takes to build a successful business.
Reflection Questions
- Would you ever start your own business? What kind of business would it be?
- What qualities do you think are most important in a good business leader?
- Is failure a necessary part of success? Can you think of any examples?
- Do you think business culture in your country is more competitive or collaborative?
Exercise 1 · Reading Gap-Fill
Starting a business is risky but rewarding. A — a new, small company with a bold idea — needs courage and capital. Founders often need to money in technology, staff, and marketing. Every business aims to make a — earning more than it spends. Owners must know how to deals to get the best possible terms. Without careful planning, companies can face and be forced to close.
Exercise 2 · Vocabulary
Exercise 3 · Common Expressions
get down to _____ (start working seriously)
a cash _____ (a product or service that reliably generates profit)
cut your _____ (accept a small loss to avoid a bigger one)
the bottom _____ (the final financial result that matters most)
call the _____ (be in charge and make the important decisions)
Exercise 4 · Grammar Focus
Complete each sentence using the First or Second Conditional.
(Hint: 1st Conditional = if + present simple, will + infinitive (real/likely); 2nd = if + past simple, would + infinitive (hypothetical))
If we reduce prices, we _____ (sell) more products next quarter.
If I had more capital, I _____ (invest) in new technology right now.
If she finds a good investor, the business _____ (grow) very quickly.
If we opened a second location, we _____ (expand) into new markets.