The Trump Blog

Ideas and Opinions from Donald Trump and TrumpU Faculty.

Home : When I Say, "You're Hired!"

When I Say, "You're Hired!"

A A A

Permalink

Blog Image
The essentials of building a great staff
 
One of the keys to being a great leader is the ability to delegate. For some strong people, that’s not an easy thing to do. It’s often difficult to relinquish the reins because you want to make sure things are done correctly. Many people adamantly believe the adage, “If you want something done right, you have to do it yourself.”
 
But executives and managers and leaders of any kind are too busy to tend to every detail so delegation is crucial. However, in order to assign tasks to others, you have to really trust those who work for you.
 
In recent years, I have built a public reputation for firing people. In all honesty, I put much more emphasis on hiring people and promoting those already working within the company. I think I’m a pretty good judge of character. When I interview people, I try to size them up fairly quickly. I don’t waste a lot of time on interviews because, although first impressions are lasting and often tell me immediately what I need to know about someone, every hire is a gamble.
 
Impressive credentials don’t always add up to a great performance or a good fit. I’ve had résumés that have blown me away and then, the real live person has done nothing once he or she has joined my staff. Likewise, nonexistent credentials don’t mean nonexistent talent. Being circumspect helps a lot and keeps you from being surprised. Time will do the weeding out for you. All you have to do is pay attention.
 
One characteristic I look for in employees is a concern for the organization as a whole. I admire employees who see themselves as having a direct relationship to the success or failure of the company they work for. When employees believe they are important to the company, their work reflects that loyalty.
 
I respect employees who act quickly and can think on their feet. Time is often of the essence and I value staff members who are ready with answers and solutions. I also like employees who spend (and, more important, save) the company’s money as if it were their own. Companies suffer when employees don’t make enough of an effort to control costs. Finally, although some amount of personal ambition is necessary, too much could undermine the common goal of the company. The company has to come first in every employee’s eyes.
 
It’s an employee’s job to do the work of the company and keep the company’s goals in mind. And it is the company’s job to keep the employees motivated and challenged. If it’s a good fit, everyone works together well. If not, then it’s a dead-end situation and no one benefits.
 
For more insights on getting your company to run as well as a fine Swiss watch, enroll in Trump University’s Entrepreneurship Mastery Program. Classes are forming now.
 

Donald J. Trump is Chairman of Trump University.

Please log in or join to comment.

52 Comments

[-] Posted by user89187 on 01/22/2007 2:24 PM
Sharply she exclaimed, "wow!" Not with amazement because nothing at you do at this point and time should amaze people. If they are not amazed already they got on the wrong boat.
[-] Posted by member1445505 on 01/22/2007 2:35 PM
" An Offer You Can't Refuse "

By the way Donald, I don't like the new look.

Jerilynn
[-] Posted by Ken Flowers on 01/22/2007 2:45 PM
We are of like mind on the importance of delegating. And, I agree that the strongest personalities often have the most difficult time doing it. Worse than being ineffective, not delegating demoralizes your team.

I hope you'll stop by and visit my blog "Practical Leadership" at www.kflowers.blogspot.com.
[-] Posted by Anthony2791 on 01/22/2007 10:50 PM
Good people makes a good company ! Moreover, excellent leadership makes alot of money.
[-] Posted by member1469810 on 01/22/2007 11:36 PM
The important, and often failed, abilities to delegate, effectively communicate, follow-up, be proactive, accept responsibility and learn from mistakes, are things that the candidates season after season seem not to be able to do. I just do not understand why these people act like they have no education or experience. What seems to fry these brains? Is it the heat from the lights during the interviews? Is it the constant cameras in their face? Is it being so near Mr. Trump? Give me a break. Or maybe Mr. Trump you pick these candidates to provide us with amusement and a chance to feel better about ourselves. I know I do when I watch this show. I am college educated wife of 28 years, mother and grandmother, professional product developer at the tender young age of 47 and I say in what some say is my "mother voice", STOP the whining and complaining. Get these people to act like professional adults instead of teens who are star struck, love struck or just dumb struck. Learn to act as a unit, give total attention to the big picture as you do the details and GET THE JOB DONE. That in itself will get you noticed and hired.
[-] Posted by member1366890 on 01/23/2007 5:46 AM
I relax my mind here! Thank You again for this blog.

Ina Matijevic***
[-] Posted by member1486592 on 01/23/2007 10:52 AM
Mr. Trump,

I have two ideas for your show.

One: Why not have "Baby Boomers" compete with each other.

Two: Why not have people with only life experience and no degree.
Like the movie, "The Pursuit of Happyness." Sometimes education can get in the way of true passion and hunger for success.
Sincerely,
Darlene Gevert
darlenegevert@hotmail.com
[-] Posted by member1486698 on 01/23/2007 12:35 PM
I am a very seasoned IT executive who has participated on management teams that successfully turned around two corporations near death. We did it by being 'lean and mean'; focused on TQM; and 'empowering' our employees to do the right thing.

Real 'delegation' is so over talked about, yet an under utilized, management practice.

Our management team knew how to delegate - how to obtain buy in - how to effect change - & how to share the profits achieved through those efforts with those involved.

Regarding the current TRUMP Apprentice TV series. The tasks for the apprentice wannabes do depend upon delegation. But the candidates, as has been the case in the past, otten do not desire to push someone else's talents ahead of theirs. It's a tough forum to expect these kids to sue delegation freely. But, they all ususally get it by the last exercise.

I also wonder about the new fApprentice ormat - creating two sets of living environments for the candidates (tents vs. mansion, etc). The candidate interview process is already unusal and stressfull one. I would want my candidates as fresh and sharp as they could be within that process - not aditionally stressed by placing losers in an even more straessful environment.

While it may be entertaining to watch these poor schmucks struggle and complain -- the new format really is disgusting, from a profession viewpoint.

Had I been an Apprentice participant and learned about this little diddy -- I would have told the Trumpster and the show -- go screw yourself!

I would ask if Donnie Jr or the Trumpster's daughter ever had to live in tents? I wonder how many others in the Trump organization ever had to do that for their job interveiws???

I know the Trumpster can create some sort of rationalization for this drama -- but the Apprentice job is a heavyweight fight and the candidates are Rocky. They are Lawyers and harvard MBAs who desrve a littler more respect than they are being given right now.

Looks to me like the Trumpster delegated this part of the TV series to an incompetent boob!
[-] Posted by member1389899 on 01/23/2007 1:18 PM
Well said Mr. Trump if all the procedures in every hiring company are written like the blog. Some Personnels just need the other way round and they need to learn. On the other side the ultimate employee is someone whose devotion to customer and company. So I agree with that and sometimes we might not need all the big grade credentials ... Blessings
[-] Posted by member1445505 on 01/23/2007 2:13 PM
By the way Donald, earlier when I said I didn't like the new look.
I meant this blog site. The old picture above.
Not you. You're beautiful. Just the way YOU are.

An Offer You Can't Refuse (there's a movie out)

Jerilynn
[-] Posted by member1486904 on 01/23/2007 3:25 PM
Keep doing what you're doing, Mr. Trump. We can all learn from your personal integrity. Personal integrity and responsibility are unpopular characteristics in our present day culture, but they are the qualities which separates the winners from the losers. Winners lead. Losers are led. I think you should strongly consider running for the Republican presidential nomination. Your country needs you. Take care, and best wishes.
[-] Posted by member1278646 on 01/23/2007 3:47 PM
Great point, while delegating may be hard it is also the first step to working "on" your business instead of "in" your business. I also agree with you in regards to hiring staff not always easy and often off mark I have learned that while all the resume stuff is nice getting to know who and what the person is will help in judging character and standards. First question I like to ask is how long of a trial period can we have berfore we put you on payroll? their answer will let often times answer a lot of questions!
[-] Posted by u295936 on 01/23/2007 6:13 PM
There are two things I've noticed watching The Apprentice: (1) Strong, educated and successful people when all put together can make difficult followers - a bit like herding cats.
(2) The next thing I observed is more of a question. I know the final big prize is to be an Apprentice for Trump Organization with a $250,000 a year salary. For most of us that is a fantastic prize; however I wonder about the motivation for those that make it on the show. Most of the people that make it onto the show are very well educated often from the best universities in the country. They also tend to already be very successful in business, either head of their own company or way up in the executive ladder of a large company. Such people are probably already making $250K+ a year and are already very successful status wise. So what is their motivation to go on The Apprentice?
[-] Posted by u295936 on 01/23/2007 6:42 PM
I'd like to see Trump University On The Apprentice!!!!
Most if not all of the candidates on The Apprentice are already extremely successful in education as well as the real world. Although most people find the show entertaining few of us are going to relate to young CEO millionares that have ivy league diplomas.
I would like to see at least one episode where the Apprentice Candidates on the show are teamed up with their Own Apprentices with just average achivements. I think a good source for these people could be right here from Trump University !!!!
[-] Posted by Lakh Gill on 01/23/2007 7:21 PM
hey Sir,

I'm still waiting for you to tell me " I'm Hired",,,

Loyalty and hard work,,,
I'll start from the bottom
[-] Posted by Daniela -Madrid on 01/23/2007 7:30 PM
Mr. Trump,

as you said: in order to assign tasks to others, you have to really trust those who work for you! Looke, I don*t know when and how the passion to build is fire again in my soul, must recognize that I*ve loosed somehow important years deviate from my dream to build...a bit different, ok, change the way we build, don*t laugh please, thank you in advance..some time ago, ocasioned by Spain awards, it take my attention a name but much his study!!proving the Poincare conjecture, a theorem about the nature of multidimensional space! as seen first time the seqoia trees I*ve amazed about what the *motor* is in them to reach the sky as they do vencing gravity and century*s tornado*s?
as nature is allways the model we tailor in our high tech(which I just imagine the peak reached today :) soo, as Nature is the model, the trees reaching the sky, when know the Poincare core theorem what if applyed as way of building? how the math community loosed that worker as result in the John Ball comment, president of the International Mathematical Union, which said that he had urged Perelman to accept the medal(Fields Medal in math,correspondent of Nobel prize), but Perelman said he felt isolated from the mathematics community and "does not want to be seen as its figurehead." Ball offered no further details of the conversation...strange is that Gregory Perelman dissapeared and taking in count he is from Russia Saint Petersbourg, ok, we don*t touch politieks here, but looks like dissapeared!! is about trust and motivation to have such a capacity work for you or for the Society positief benefit isn*t?! is just the nose of a curious scorpio
where mysteries like this occure...but ask myself what can motivate Perelman to go out from where is hidden and make him part of a creatief team?
is he shy, hardworking but never know when is enough and when rewardet like this he remain hidden? by will or by unknown circumstances?! what if the theory he can apply and see the result surroundet by a team accepting him how it is as normality.what damn can make a person hidden that way? as any media did*t reach him, even to talk to see is alive, is a great loose for his talent and for how we can benefit if have him alive and creatif..
Each person know his inner dreams as motor in the life race, if stopped somehow just someones happend to have the unique chance of proper care to start again feel the magic of theyre dreams on.
Mr. Trump, I trust your balance of judje characters and size up persons fairly, curious to know your opinion about the Perelman case.Regards,
and thanks for the time and attention
Dana
[-] Posted by Meridian on 01/23/2007 7:30 PM
Number 1486698...Talks Too Much and I Have To Say I Am Guilty of If You Want Something Done Right You Do It Yourself...Thats Me 100%
[-] Posted by member1273435 on 01/23/2007 7:44 PM
I feel that it is unfair to have one group in a tent. They cannot possibly be at their best under these conditions. I also believe that all the perks and resort amenities were given much too soon in the program, again favoring one team, winners or not. The Project Manager of the winning team in the boardroom gave an unfair advantage to her team. I, too, would have quit , and I'm not a quitter. There's a question of spirit and pride involved.
[-] Posted by member1405150 on 01/23/2007 8:42 PM
I agree with you on this matter, Donald. In general what you really want is an employee who takes ownership of the situation as that is someone who really wants to work for you. All the credentials in the world don't do a bit of good if the person in question isn't prepared to use them. Regarding taking ownership, this should also extend to buddying up to the government, if need be, if this will create an environment more favorable to business- especially if you're doing business in a place like, say Russia- which you may very well be as globalization is the way to go, Da? Just so long as the government understands you reserve the right to decline to be involved if you feel their request for help is innappropriate and are truly an independent third party. In general, in business, there is no place for politics as once you become involved in any given country's politics, may limit the number of countries you can do business in-namely in other countries who don't like the one you are involved in politically. In helping any government, for the purposes of preserving business interests globally, must be maintained a stance of polite neutrality and political noninvolvement to avoid any potential conflict of interest. As long as the government respects that arrangement, why not help the government out as if you scratch their back they'll scratch yours, DA? One other thing, regarding TMZ picking on that your wife doesn't speak English too well- that's a foul and she automatically won that one! Especially because she speaks English about as well as I could be expected to speak Russian. Cheers! http://www.myspace.com/98656180
[-] Posted by just give me a job on 01/23/2007 10:59 PM
Comment to Darlene user 1486592. I do agree with her and have a show with baby boomers. We have been in the work force for many years and have seen the changes in the work force.
[-] Posted by Gary A. on 01/24/2007 6:47 AM
It is a win-win situation when employees are passionate about the company they work for.

My experience is that the business owner is usually a dynamic individual with a dominant personality that loves to hear himself talk but doesn't have a lot to say.

The successful ones are those that direct and delegate. These companies attract and retain great people.


gea
[-] Posted by user89187 on 01/24/2007 7:17 AM
If nothing changes, nothing changes.
[-] Posted by member1179084 on 01/24/2007 7:19 AM
'Impressive credentials don't always add up to a great performance or a good fit.' 'nonexistent credentials don't mean nonexistent talent.'

I agree to the above statements. Some get the job because they can write a good resume to impress.

A lot of HR relies too much on past / present experiences stated on the resume to make assumption about job fit. They also tends to assume that those who are self-employed for too long would not fit in.
In fact the self-employed are more knowledgeable and empathic about company's position in the business world, more likely to possess entrepreneur and initiatives altitude, and more driven and conscious in cost / business agendas of company
[-] Posted by user89187 on 01/24/2007 7:39 AM
There cannot be enough said about making and or having the right connections, no?

peace
[-] Posted by user89187 on 01/24/2007 8:08 AM
I'm soo jealous!
[-] Posted by VG1486692 on 01/24/2007 12:02 PM
Well Mr. Trump I must say that I do admire your work and success. I am a 23 year old with a family and I must say that I am finally getting on my feet. I have a great job, that pays fairly well. I was going to school for nursing but somehow I fell into this job in manufacturing and I am now doing AR, Book Keeping & Accounting, Collections, Dispatch and a little of AP. I do more than my share here and now I am also helping the company get involved in some business legalities. We are going into the Lien Process and it is a headache. I put in about 70 hours per work week and that does not include the fact that I work pretty much seven days a week. I am exhausted but devoted. I have never done anything like this before and now that I am I love it- stress and all. I am looking into furthuring my education and either majoring in Business or Accounting- I am not sure which I will go for. I love your show and I watch it whenever I get home early enough to see it. Thanks for giving me a chance at posting this comment. BYE
[-] Posted by lightwayvez on 01/24/2007 5:05 PM
A nice article however offers no new information from what I have heard over the years but then I am one of the few who actually know who Dale Carnegie is.

I did the Trump test "are you like Trump" and I am relieved to let everyone know I am like me and I love me.
[-] Posted by lightwayvez on 01/24/2007 5:23 PM
A nice article however offers no new information from what I have heard over the years but then I am one of the few who actually know who Dale Carnegie is.

I did the Trump test "are you like Trump" and I am relieved to let everyone know I am like me and I love me instead.

Now what I do like that is new, a more concise presentation of our corporate members resumes. It meant a lot to me as a mother to show my son what a resume looks like during a recent Liberal platform introducing Stephan Dion on television now there's a resume money can't buy !

For me life is about following our nature and to me that is just what Stephan does and I love his dog Kyoto too.

Back on track, nice nice skills are good when it comes to building a team and delegating tasks, however nice nice skills are over rated, you need a financial base to travel through particular networks with any chance at sustaining a particular career mentality. A few exceptions slip by but for the most part,

New money is not as sustainable as old money reputation ?
[-] Posted by lightwayvez on 01/24/2007 5:29 PM
Can we hire Rick Mercer too ! I think Trump and Rick Mercer would be an interesting blend ?
[-] Posted by member1484503 on 01/25/2007 12:09 AM
Mr Trump:

Have you ever fired someone, not based on merit, but simply because they annoyed you?

If someone has all the merit, but lacks the characteristics of personality you desire, is that reason enough?

If so, why wouldn't you help that person to improve those qualities you gravitate towards?

Unless I'm mistaken, the whole concept of Trump University is self help. Granted you provide the instruction and knowledge, but your helping others to help themselves.

I'm curious to know if the people you've fired simply didn't possess any self help skills, or was there a genuine dislike?

Thanks
[-] Posted by wilson6647 on 01/25/2007 8:38 AM
Mr. Trump, I would like to work for your organization. myspace.com/dwils54254
[-] Posted by member1405150 on 01/25/2007 12:44 PM
If you don't mind my saying , Donald- I just love it when men think that women can't tell when they are lying. Presumably because women are delicate little flowers and can't get their tiny little heads around the giant concept of a man lying. What makes you think I thought you were telling the truth to begin with? The world is full of people who lie and tell you what you want to hear so they can lure you into an encounter under false pretenses. Lying is a normal social behavior and a necessary part of having good social skills. It can be used towards ill, but not always. What I really care about, therefore, is not if someone is lying- but why they are lying. What tells you whether or not you should do business with someone is not so much what they are doing but why they are doing it. That's what is going to tell you if you should be doing business with that person or not. What we really want to know is- are you acting in good faith or not? http://www.myspace.com/98656180
[-] Posted by member1405150 on 01/25/2007 12:47 PM
If you don't mind my saying , Donald- I just love it when men think that women can't tell when they are lying. Presumably because women are delicate little flowers and can't get their tiny little heads around the giant concept of a man lying. What makes you think I thought you were telling the truth to begin with? The world is full of people who lie and tell you what you want to hear so they can lure you into an encounter under false pretenses. Lying is a normal social behavior and a necessary part of having good social skills. It can be used towards ill, but not always. What I really care about, therefore, is not if someone is lying- but why they are lying. What tells you whether or not you should do business with someone is not so much what they are doing but why they are doing it. That's what is going to tell you if you should be doing business with that person or not. What we really want to know is- are you acting in good faith or not? http://www.myspace.com/98656180
[-] Posted by lightwayvez on 01/25/2007 2:47 PM
Well I read some comments about living in a tent. My suggestion to you is this, I would not want to have you as a passenger on my team. We would suffer too much down time in the event of an emergency if something as simple as building a tent is an issue you can't work around. What if my life depended on it ? Capture the moment with enthusiasm it can lead you in more directions than you could ever image.
[-] Posted by member1445505 on 01/25/2007 5:41 PM
Donald, in the last paragraph reads you said-

It’s an employee’s job to do the work of the company and keep the company’s goals in mind.

And I say:-
Yes that's what they 're paid for.

Then you said-

And it is the company’s job to keep the employees motivated and challenged.

And I say-
Yes but you shouldn't have to babysit.

Thank you again,
Jerilynn
[-] Posted by member1243807 on 01/25/2007 8:29 PM
I read this article. I am truly amazed. Mr. Trump has wonderful insight. I cannot wait to attend his seminar. Thank you Mr. Trump. I am starting a company myself and will be hiring soon. The article gave me alot to think about.
[-] Posted by The Ida on 01/26/2007 9:19 AM
Dear Mr Trump,

You're Fired, You're Hired --- You're (So) In! Your comment about the truth is IN! Yes, I too prefer it, want it, give it and truly understand it's a good idea who's time has come, specifically from Leaders and CEO'S.
The truth is often avoided because it can be ugly and unpleasant. However, Most people admire the bold, no one honors the timid and liars are losers!
Thank You for giving Miss America a second chance and sending the message to America that each of us is in charge of our own behavior, hopes and dreams. Each of us need role models and mentors and you have been mine since I read "The Art of the Deal" in 1987. I have been the CEO of my own Real Estate company for over 10 years in No. California.
...And the Roise thing, Oh my God, is she confused. You have never failed and who cares or should judge how many times someone’s been married.... And will someone please show me a better role model than you at parenting in your league... your children are amazing, and they too are outstanding role models! I hope my real estate company can do business with Trump Mortgage in the future... www.CentoniRealEstate.com and www.IdaCentoni.com ... BIg Hug, Warmly with respect, Ida
idacentoni@aol.com
[-] Posted by member1445505 on 01/26/2007 12:58 PM
Sorry Donald my last comment had some grammatical erros in it. I don't like that. I like the your blog to look as good as possible.
Jerilynn
[-] Posted by member1273435 on 01/27/2007 1:09 PM
To Member 1452395: In regard to your feedback on tent comments: With all due respect, if there were an emergency situation I would by all means put up a tent and try to save almost anyone or any business in a life-threatening situation. HOWEVER, -- we're talking about a JOB INTERVIEW, which should be conducted in a fair manner. There is no comparison.

I truly believe that Donald Trump is a fair and honest person, but somehow this situation happened.

I, for one, have captured the moment many times, and believe me you won't find too many people with more enthusiasm than I. Enough said.
[-] Posted by member1469735 on 01/27/2007 6:17 PM
Mr. Trump, I admire your way of dealing with business and I agree with you tatics because they seem to be fair to me. If I had an opportunity to reside in one of your tents, it would be a true honor for me. As long as I wasn't freezing or suffering. If ,I were to lose a task and it caused me and my team members to sleep in tents instead of a luxurious manson it would only make me want to work harder to win the next task. That's my opinion but I don't have a high paying job or I don't own a business or anything like that yet. I know with hands-on-experience how to survive in hard times and most of the candidates on the show might not have a clue about what it is like to start from the bottom. If any of them do know what it is to want employment and not be able to obtain or maintain a job, they must have forgot the feeling.

I believe the whole concept of someone's envirnment having a negative effect on their performance is just a mind-set and one must be very strong willed. The young lady that quit on the previous show was just a weak-link and she may have thought you were some kind of push-over. It's obvious that she didn't watch every episode of, "The Apprentice" carefully. She didn't even have a high level of team-playing skills.

I'm a strong believer in having to delegate assignments to others in order to complete a mission and/or goal to succeed in business. I was also taught to do so in the several schools I have attended. It is turly a major aspect of managment operations. It's sad but true that in the real world or work-force there are too many people that are afraid to share responsibilities but they don't always have the knowledge to do what is necessary to accomplish success. Most people of seniority are afraid that someonelse will get more recognition than them or maybe their insecure about losing their position.
[-] Posted by DebbieDee on 01/27/2007 10:51 PM
This is what I learnt that most people only delegate their job to people who nepotism to them. This is BAD, actually! One of a guy that I knew from United States for a year tried to know me. And he bad mouth about Chinese people to me. Apparently, he bad mouth about me to Chinese people! Wow, this guy very surprise to me!

And I said to him that most people in my country not sympathy to Chinese people, because they are only busy to create wealth, never have social life. Yes, TIME is MONEY! I understand with that word! Beside, the community in my country also divide each other. Actually, I felt pity to them who always judge people by its cover. I believe, all people have side strength and weak. No matter your colour, no matter your religion, no matter your education, no matter all aspects in life. and amongst Chinese people, I can see that they are solid each other, support each other. No wonder, the Western people more exciting to work with Chinese people that local people in my country. And this creates envious to local people. Then the local people attack Chinese people. So, the question is "What is the solution if you see the condition like this?" My opinion said "Try to give a chance to local people, and for Chinese people in my country - "BE OPEN THEMSELVES" Hey Chinese, choose one person to represent you and set your time to communicate yourself to local people. Otherwise, don't be surprise if it happen again such some years ago. Thanks to read my message!
[-] Posted by user17584 on 01/28/2007 10:42 PM
D. Trump has created a tremendous amount of jobs contrary to the TV show. He has to be able to be an excellent judge of delegating authority in order to manage all these jobs. I like the fact that he doesn't always go by an impressive resume. His empire is very impressive.
[-] Posted by member1499422 on 02/06/2007 12:49 AM
Hello there,

Fantastic points raised by Mr Trump. It is very difficult to get employees within the paradigm of Mr Trump choosing. A cream of the cake can only be eaten together with the cake matter.

regards
gazzali
http://three-points-corner.com/
[-] Posted by member1445505 on 02/07/2007 4:53 PM
Donald,
I read an article a few moments ago that said "Out of Rehab Miss USA to be 'Face' of Trumps Catering. "
Are you sure you want this? I'm not so sure it's a good idea. I don't think I would. Truthfully, I think she needs a lower profile. Actually I think she needs to find another way.
I'm not so sure if she should be connected with the Trump name anymore. The name deserves high standards.
Maybe it's time for her to part company and go else -where. There's been enough publicity.
If it were me she would have to prove herself for an extended period of time.
I think she could grow more effectively without the Trump name involved. Without you as Daddy figure.
I know you have an investment in the pageant but an investment is an investment. If she needs a babysitter then one should be found/hired.
I'd replace her if I were you. She needs more miles under her. More experience. She's too young.
It's like she needs to spin off some how.
Think about it Donald.
If I'm off I'd like to know. But I don't think I am.

Jerilynn
[-] Posted by member1389900 on 02/08/2007 4:45 PM
I couldn't agree with you more, Mr. Trump. However, I also wanted to make a comment from the other side of the coin - the employee. I have been self employed for most of my adult life. And the reason is because I AM a very loyal, hard working, perfectionistic, devoted employee...and it doesn't pay if I am working for someone else. As an employee, I worked many overtime hours without pay, I did a lot more work than was asked of me, I supported my fellow co-workers, and ended up realizing that doing that only puts you in a bad position financially. Example: I took a job as an accountant for a large company. I was the third accountant to take that job - the books were such a mess that the first two had quit within a week very frustrated. I enjoyed it because I enjoyed the challenge. So I worked full time for the company until I got the books all straightened up. Once they were all in order and I had set up new procedures for my job and had gotten it well organized, I ran into the problem that my job no longer required the 40 hours a week that I was scheduled to work. Soon after that another employee in my department quit. Instead of hiring a replacement, the company decided to have me take over her job...not in place of my current job, but on top of doing the work I was currently doing. In other words, I was told to do both jobs. So I did. At first I was working a little bit of overtime in order to be able to fit it all in - I was coming in early. No paid overtime, of course, and no raise. Just more work. After all, the company felt I had the time, and I did. And eventually everything fell into place, and again, I was able to accomplish all my tasks in under 40 hours a week. Soon after that another employee quit. This employee was one of my supervisors. Another employee in my department was promoted to take over the supervisory position, and I was given the tasks of the promoted employee to handle. Again, no raise...just more work and a little unpaid overtime. By now I've been at the company for one year, and I get my one year review...raving review, 2.5% raise....less than the cost of living increase, and less than most of the other employees. When they told me that, I walked out, and got another job...it took me 24 hours. I was at the next job for 1 1/2 years, and the experience was similar - three promotions in 1 1/2 years with no raise. When I started working for the new company, they were in a lot of trouble and in for an audit...there was a lot of stress in the accounting department. I took over, got things in order, and the auditors actually requested that the owner of the company have me work with them during the audit, which he did. After that, the auditors sent a very nice letter to the owner of the company about me and the work I had done...this resulted in a promotion - no raise. One promotion later, when I was working directly under the owner of the company, I actually went to the owner of the company and told him my feelings - he admitted that the situation was unfair, but said that what I was getting paid was as much as the company policy would allow for anyone in my department. He told me that with my personality, work ethics, and determination, the only way I would really succeed was if I started my own business. He told me that if I ever went out on my own "that he was sure he'd see me spread my wings and really fly". He went so far as to help me with a resume and referred me to various contacts to help me get new accounting clients and start up my own business...and that is where I stayed for 27 years. I now see my children with similar work ethics as my own suffering the same kinds of injustices. How does one work for a company and put in the kind of loyalty that you discuss in this article without being taken advantage of?!

Cynthia
[-] Posted by Stagg on 02/19/2007 7:36 PM
Those are great employee/employer ethics. I personally think that experience outweighs education by far. You can't really know if you can do the job unless you do it. I have chosen educated candidates and had to let them go for not meeting expectations. Whereas, the ones with experience were able to move into position and begin to contribute to the bottom-line in the company. Many of these experienced candidates were also more creative, on a practical level (i.e. more "work" and "increase" opportunities and less "theory," "charts" and "scenarios.") That said, I can see how an impressive resume may not necessarily mean a good candidate for employment.

And just for GP, I am not against education!
[-] Posted by member1445505 on 02/21/2007 11:29 AM
Witness the Birth of an Empire
[-] Posted by airplane_country on 02/24/2007 12:50 PM
Mr. Trump,

member1486592, Darlene Gevert, suggested letting "baby boomers" be contestants on The Apprentice. How about recent high school graduates or college students? You said nonexistent credentials don't necessarily mean nonexistent talent. We may not have credentials or experience, but we do have energy, drive, optimism and a fresh outlook. Maybe you can pit us against the baby boomers.

Megan Molargik
[-] Posted by L.J. on 03/03/2007 12:12 PM
What you have stated is very true and a true leader also knows how to motivate the staff. Attitude breeds gratitude! One premise that works well to get people to work together is a philosophy that there are no problems only situations. Simply stated if you tell a group of people WORKING FOR YOU that there is a problem the bulk will act like ostridges and stick their heads in the sand. On the other hand if you state to that same group that WORKS WITH YOU that we have a situation that requires everyone's help. The group will come to your aid and fantastic results will happen.

Just my philosophy. As a new reader I do enjoy your candor.
[-] Posted by TERESA SKINNER VA BCH member1784598 on 09/29/2008 10:18 AM
DEAR MR. TRUMP:

THIS IS A GREAT TOPIC TO PROMOTE WISDOM!
ABRAHAM LINCOLN BY HIS OWN ESTIMATION, ATTENDED LESS THAN A YEAR'S WORTH OF EDUCATION IN HIS WHOLE LIFE. HIS SPEECH: HE SAID KIN FOR CAN, CHEER FOR CHAIR, AND HAINT FOR HAVEN'T.

FREDERICK DOUGLAS, THE BLACK LEADER OF THE ANTI-SLAVERY MOVEMENT OF LINCOLN'S DAY, SAID THAT "INFINITE WISDOM HAS SELDOM SENT ANY MAN INTO THE WORLD BETTER FITTED FOR HIS MISSION THAN ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
NOT OFTEN IN THE STORY OF MANKIND DOES A MAN ARRIVE ON EARTH WHO IS BOTH STEEL AND VELVET, WHO IS HARD AS ROCK AND SOFT AS A DRIFTING FOG.

ONE WAY I SUM THAT UP IS TO BE WHAT YOU NEED TO BE WHATEVER THE SITUATION CALLS FOR.... FOR NO MAN OR WOMAN BORN WITH WISDOM CAN ESCAPE LEADERSHIP, BUT THEY CAN LEAD FOR OTHER;S AS WELL.

T.L.S.
























;
[-] Posted by TERESA SKINNER VA BCH member1784598 on 09/30/2008 10:36 AM
DEAR MR. TRUMP:

I HAVE HAD LOT'S OF JOB, MOSTLY DUE TO MY LATE HUSBAND BEING IN THE MILITARY, WE MOVED A LOT. ALWAYS I WAS PROMOTED IN EACH JOB INTO A SUPERVISOR POSITION AND ALWAYS THE REASON WAS BECAUSE I HAD AN INSTANT UNDERSTANDING OF HOW HE OR SHE WANTED THINGS TO RUN "smooth". PEOPLE LOOKED FOR ME FOR DIRECTION ON MY SHIFT. I WORKED THE SECOND SHIFT SO HE NEEDED A FAITHFUL, TRUSTWORTHY AND DEPENDBLE EMPLOYEE. MY FIRST SUPERVISOR POSITION I WAS 18 YEARS OLD WITH NO COLLEGE.
HOWEVER AT OUR NIGHTLY MEETINGS I STRESSED ONE THING. WHEN I ASKED FOR INPUT. NEVER ATTACK A CO-WORKER VERBALLY, ONLY ATTACK THE SUBJECT. THE SECOND THING I STRESSED WAS THAT GOSSIP IN THE WORK PLACE IS TOXIC TO EVERYONES HEALTHY. THESE WERE MY TWO GREATEST POLICIES...NO ONE TAUGHT ME THESE CONCEPTS, IT COMES FROM WISDOM AND THAT WAS ONE REASON MY SUPERVISOR CONFIDED IN ME. OUR MEETINGS NEVER LEFT CLOSED DOORS. PLEASE FWD TO MR. TRUMP, I WANT BOUNCE SOME IDEAS ON THE WAY TO HIM. DONT HIDE YOUR WISDOM UNDER A BARREL. TLS
[-] Posted by Rachael Sutton #1253595 on 12/07/2008 2:07 PM
Mr. Trump,

I agree with you that being able to delegate effectively is very important. You have to know the person you are delegating to has the skills and the ability to work independently. You have to clearly communicate what is expected. You have to give them the tools to accomplish the task. You have to give them a reasonable amount of time to do what is required. You have to follow up to make sure things are on schedule. Then, you should share the credit for the success or accept the responsibiltiy for what didn't go as planned.

Sometimes, people who come across strong are actually just in desparate need to have control. A person who has difficulty delegating can make it very difficult for others to do their work effectively. I beleive if there is no delegation there is no teamwork.

In response to other bloggers

lightwayvez on 01/24/2007 5:23 PM
A nice article however offers no new information from what I have heard over the years but then I am one of the few who actually know who Dale Carnegie is

Hey, don't flatter yourself, I know who Dale Carnegie was too, and I bet lots of others do too. Knowing doesn't impress me - do you apply it?

Posted by u295936 on 01/23/2007 6:13 PM
There are two things I've noticed watching The Apprentice: (1) Strong, educated and successful people when all put together can make difficult followers - a bit like herding cats.

I love your comparison!
Please log in or join to comment.
Why do you need a personal real estate coach?  * To find profitable real estate investments * To negotiate deals like a pro * To close deasl and make money.  Get Started Now!
Get the Feed
AddThis Feed Button

Please send me Trump University's weekly e-newsletter Inside Trump Tower and let me know about special offers.

Search This Blog

See how you stack up against Donald Trump take our FREE entrepreneurship test.

Follow Us on Twitter
Become a Fan of Trump University's Facebook Page
Trump University on You Tube
How to Change the World
Tom Peters
Conversation Marketing
Freakonomics
Marketing Excellence Blog
Rajesh Shakya

TrumpU Books

Trump Real Estate 101 Trump University Real Estate 101 Building Wealth with Real Estate Investments

Trump Commercial Real Estate 101 Commercial Real Estate Investment 101 How Small Investors Can Get Started and Make It Big

more...