An Apprentice Lesson: Risk-Takers Always Win

Now that this season’s final Apprentice task has been completed, everybody seems to be asking who the strongest candidate is. But I would like to ask a slightly different question:

Which candidate grew the most during the season?

To me, that’s a more interesting question. And I think that the answer is pretty clear. Actually, there are two answers, because Frank and James showed the greatest growth this season. I don’t think it is a coincidence that they also are now part of the final four.

If you think back to the early episodes this season, you will remember that James brought amazing energy to every task that was put in front of him. But at that point, he contented himself with following directions, not moving out of the pack. His leadership potential only began to shine when he started managing projects for his team. Then it became obvious that he was great at understanding and balancing the strengths of his teammates.

And James kept growing. In last night’s episode, he stepped into the role of director for his team’s commercial. He made mistakes, but that is bound to happen when people take risks. When you look at the progress that James has made, you know that his potential is practically boundless.

Frank’s growth has been extraordinary too. Early in the season, he looked like someone who could follow directions, but whose leadership was a little on the short side. Then suddenly, that changed. He spoke up and challenged his team’s plans when no one else had the guts. Then last night, Frank jumped in and directed his team’s commercial with a lot of energy and finesse. There is so much depth to the guy.

Does all that growth mean that Frank and James are now more likely to win than Stefani or Nicole? In my opinion, it could well be.

Maybe that is unfair, because those are two very capable women. Stefani shoulders her responsibilities with assurance and calm. She is poised and polished, even under fire. Nicole is a firebrand who makes some questionable decisions - such as inviting Tim back onto her team last night. But she is smart, quick and electric. Wouldn’t you want her on your team?

But does slow and steady really win the race? Or will James and Frank, the candidates who showed a growth spurt, have the advantage?

Next week when Mr. Trump picks his Apprentice, we will know. But let me say that most of the big winners I have known in my career have been people who take big risks. Maybe that is because people who can grow are always chosen to lead.