"Get the ball rolling" - Finance and Banking

FINANCE AND BANKING

10/25/20224 min read

To initiate action or start something in motion.

a bowling ball on a bowling ball in a bowling ball

History

The origin of the idiom "get the ball rolling" can be traced back to the early 19th century, when it was used to describe the action of starting a game by rolling a ball. Though the early beginnings of this idiom are uncertain, it has evolved over time to represent the initiation of any process or action in various contexts, including the world of finance and banking.

What is the Meaning?

In business, especially finance and banking, "get the ball rolling" is commonly used to signify the commencement of a new project, plan, or task. It encourages prompt action and sets the stage for further development and progress. This idiom is particularly relevant in fast-paced industries like finance and banking, where decisions and actions need to be taken promptly to stay ahead of the competition and capitalize on opportunities.

Prioritize Quality Communication

Quality: our daily routine.

a man in a suit and glasses is standing in front of a group of people

Illustration

Imagine a team of financial professionals in a meeting room, discussing the launch of a new investment product. The team leader initiates the discussion by saying, "Let's get the ball rolling on this new product." This statement metaphorically represents the team leader pushing a ball down a hill, setting it in motion and signifying the beginning of the project.

Finance and Banking Context - How to Use the Idiom

In the finance and banking industry, "get the ball rolling" is often used in various situations, such as initiating a new project, starting discussions on a financial deal, or beginning a client meeting. Here are some example sentences of the idiom used in various business contexts:

"Before we can secure funding for the project, we need to get the ball rolling on preparing the financial projections."

"Our team will get the ball rolling on the quarterly financial report by collecting data from all departments."

"We should schedule a meeting with the potential investor to get the ball rolling on the acquisition process."

"As the new manager, I will get the ball rolling on improving our department's efficiency and productivity."

Compare Sentences

Without idiom: "Let's start working on the new marketing strategy."

With idiom: "Let's get the ball rolling on the new marketing strategy."

The sentence with the idiom is more engaging and dynamic, as it captures the essence of taking prompt action and adds a sense of urgency to the task at hand.

a man and woman sitting at a table with a tablet

Over to you - Using the Idiom in Conversation

How would you use "get the ball rolling" in your business conversations? Try to think of situations where you could use the idiom. Consider reading this scenario aloud and recording yourself speaking to experience a more effective way of practicing the idiom. Here's an example to get you started:

Conversation

Scenario: A team of financial analysts is discussing the upcoming earnings report for their company.

CFO: "Alright, everyone, let's get the ball rolling on this earnings report. We need to analyze the data and prepare a comprehensive summary for the board meeting next week. Susan, can you provide an update on the revenue figures?"

Susan, Financial Analyst: "Of course. I've collected the data and will start working on a detailed revenue analysis."

CFO: "Great, thank you. And, Michael, can you initiate the expense review process?"

Michael, Financial Analyst: "Yes, I'll get the ball rolling on that right away and coordinate with the relevant departments for the necessary information."

CFO: "Thank you, everyone. Let's reconvene next week to discuss our findings and finalize the report."

Audio

Listen to the conversation

Gap Fill Exercises

Add the idiom "get the ball rolling" to blank spaces in the following sentences:

We need to ___________ on the budget for next quarter to ensure we allocate resources effectively.
The merger talks are progressing slowly; we need someone to step in and ___________.
To meet the deadline, we should ___________ on the risk assessment report as soon as possible.
It's important to ___________ on establishing a strong relationship with our new clients.

Quiz: Mastering "Get the Ball Rolling" in Business Contexts

Multiple Choice: What does the idiom "get the ball rolling" mean in a business context?

a. To postpone action

b. To complete a task

c. To initiate action or start a process

d. To cause confusion

Fill-in-the-blank: To ensure we close the deal on time, we must ___________ on negotiations with the client.

True or False: The idiom "get the ball rolling" is not suitable for use in the finance and banking industry.

Matching: Match the sentences with the correct use of "get the ball rolling."

a. We need to ___________ on our marketing campaign to increase sales.

b. The board has decided to ___________ on the new product launch.

c. To streamline operations, we must ___________ on the reorganization plan.

Short answer: Explain why the sentence with the idiom "get the ball rolling" is more engaging than a sentence without the idiom.

Scoring Guidelines:

Correct answer: c

Correct answer: get the ball rolling

Correct answer: False

Correct answers:

a. get the ball rolling

b. get the ball rolling

c. get the ball rolling

The sentence with the idiom "get the ball rolling" is more engaging because it captures the essence of taking prompt action and adds a sense of urgency to the task at hand. The idiom also makes the sentence more dynamic and interesting, which can help create a more effective and memorable message.