Business Life & Start-ups
Entrepreneurship, risk, and the allure of building something of your own. Do you have what it takes?
Have you ever dreamt of setting up your own business, or do you prefer the security of being an employee?
Would rather · PreferWhat kind of business would it be, and what would be the biggest risk you'd face in the first year?
If you were to launch a new app tomorrow, what problem would it solve for people in Catalonia?
Second conditionalHow would you fund it? Angel investment, crowdfunding, or a bank loan — and why?
Why do you think some small businesses become market leaders while others fold within the first year?
Reason & contrastCan you think of a local business that went from nothing to a household name? What do you think made the difference?
In your opinion, is it better for a company to expand quickly or to grow slowly and steadily?
Opinion · ComparisonHave you ever seen a business grow too fast and collapse? What lessons could be drawn from that?
The Workplace & Ethics
Pay, power, principles. Where do you draw the line between pragmatism and personal values?
Even though some big multinationals pay well, would you rather work for a small local firm? Why?
Even though · ConcessionIs salary the most important factor when choosing a job, or does company culture matter more to you?
Do you think companies should be allowed to advertise products to children, or should there be stricter laws?
Modals of permissionCan you think of an advert aimed at children that you found particularly manipulative or clever? What made it effective?
Have you ever boycotted a brand in order to protest against their unethical business practices?
Past perfect · In order toDo consumer boycotts actually work, or do companies continue regardless? Can you think of a case where public pressure changed a company's behaviour?
In your job or studies, do you feel you are underpaid for the amount of responsibility you have?
Feel · Passive voiceHave you ever asked for a pay rise, or considered doing so? What stopped you — or what did you say?
Economic Trends & Personal Finance
Markets boom and bust. How do economic forces shape the daily choices you make with your money?
How did your spending habits change during the last recession? Did you have to cut back on anything?
Past simple · Used toDid the experience change your attitude to saving and spending permanently, or did you return to old habits once things improved?
If you had a lot of money to invest, which sector do you think is currently booming?
Second conditionalWould you be prepared to take a financial risk, or would you prefer a guaranteed but lower return? What does that say about your attitude to risk?
Why do some people prefer to buy "big brands" despite the fact that cheaper versions are often identical?
Despite the fact thatIs there a brand you genuinely believe is worth paying more for? What makes it different — quality, identity, or something else?
Do you think it's a good idea for banks to have so many branches, or is online banking enough for you?
Opinion · Enough forWho is most disadvantaged when bank branches close? Is there a responsibility to protect access to financial services for everyone?
Personal Experiences & Opinions
Your stories are the best raw material. What has the world of commerce done to you — for better and for worse?
Have you ever bought a product that turned out to be a total flop? What happened?
Past simple · Turn outDid you complain, ask for a refund, or simply accept it? What would you do differently next time?
If two companies merged in your industry, would you be worried about job security?
Second conditionalAre mergers generally good for employees, consumers, or only for shareholders? Can you think of a real-world example?
What is the most famous commercial (advert) in your country? Why has it stayed in your memory?
Superlatives · Present perfectWhat techniques did it use — humour, emotion, a catchy jingle? Did it actually make you want to buy the product?
Although many people complain about customer service today, have you had any surprisingly positive experiences recently?
Although · Present perfectIs good customer service becoming rarer? What do you think companies could do better — and what would make you truly loyal to a brand?
The Future of Business
Automation, sustainability, leadership. What kind of business world do we want — and what are we prepared to do about it?
Do you think it is ethical for a company to make a profit by selling "disposable" products that break easily?
Ethics · Gerund subjectShould governments legislate against planned obsolescence, or is it the consumer's responsibility to demand better? Who holds the power here?
Some companies manufacture their products abroad to save money. Should they be forced to bring production back home?
Passive modal · Should be forcedWould you pay more for a product that was made locally, even if an identical imported version cost half the price? Is "made in Spain" a meaningful label to you?
Would you like to be the head of a large department, or do you prefer working without managing others?
Would like to · PreferWhat qualities make a truly great manager? Have you ever had a boss who inspired you — or one who didn't? What was the difference?
In a business meeting, do you find it easy to take into account everyone's opinion before making a decision?
Find it easy to · Take into accountIs consensus always the best approach, or are there times when a decisive leader should simply make the call? Can you think of a situation where one approach was clearly better?