Celebrity Apprentice 2: Episode 3 Recap
| March 16, 2009 | Posted by Roshawn Watson under Uncategorized |
By: Roshawn Watson
As usual, the celebs began hitting up their contacts for big contributions. Interestingly, each project manager independently set $100,000 as their sales target. Both teams were getting several thousands of dollars for the wedding dresses. Interestingly, Athena and KOTU had very different strategies regarding the decor of the retail shops. Against Jesse James advice, who suggested a red carpet style selling event, Tom Green took the minimalist approach to decor for their shop, similar to an art gallery. It was very uninviting. In contrast, Athena went very elegant; Melissa Rivers asked Preston Bailey, a premiere event coordinator, to plan their shop’s decor. Athena had flowers, champagne, cupcakes, etc for their consumers. It was clearly professionally done.
Refreshingly, this week was relatively light on team friction. Probably the biggest challenges with the task was that Dennis Rodman had an allergic reaction to dogs or cats the day of their sales event and Tom Green showed up late to his event. Tom claims he was trying to wake Dennis Rodman up although his team didn’t seem completely convinced. Dennis refused to show up to the event because he wasn’t feeling well, which was a blow to KOTU’s morale.
Overall, both teams sold about twenty dresses. However, this was a very one-sided victory for team Athena. Although KOTU raised an impressive $63,450 for 21 dresses, Athena sold 22 dresses for a staggering $103,000. For the third consecutive week, the men were in the boardroom, and they were obviously not too happy.
Lessons
Let experts do what expert’s do. The women (Athena) clearly had an advantage for this task given that KOTU had already loss two players and that Athena seemed to have more intrinsic interest in the task. However, what’s very impressive is that Melissa Rivers had one of the biggest event planners personally plan the decor for their event. Athena simply refused to leave the task to chance or their own skill to get a win this week. They focused relentlessly on fundraising AND having quality event. The difference showed up in the bottom line: they won by $40,000. For instance, QVC donated $25,000 because of Joan Rivers and Annie Duke had a friend bring a $10,000 check. Quality is so important, and if you do not personally have the expertise to deliver a stellar product, hire someone who can help.
The quality of your product will be remembered long after the price you charged for it is forgotten.
Tardiness is not acceptable for a leader. Tom knew that there was a red target on his forehead since he was PM, and yet he still was tardy. His excuse was weak, and his team rightfully called him out in the boardroom. Leadership is that unique form of interpersonal influence that causes us to voluntarily and enthusiastically respond. Everyone looks to your example. When you don’t show up and don’t communicate with your team, it shows disrespect and weakens your influence.
Bring in funds regardless. Tom Green was fired in this episode for many reasons. Perhaps, he would have been spared if he had brought in some funds himself. Herschel in episode 1 is the perfect example of a failing PM whose only saving grace was that he brought in the major bucks for the task. Even Dennis who was absent the day of the event, brought in thousands from donors. The least you can do as a leader is to demonstrate the behavior you demand.
Next week, tempers erupt-and team members almost come to blows-before work has even begun. At some point soon, I expect for the teams to be restructured.
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If you're curious about the dos and don'ts of leadership, watch Tom Green's performance. He definitely shows you what not to do.
I think the main thing Tom Green had going for him was his energy. Unfortunately, it just wasn't enough.