The new show started with a quick dash into the first task with little introduction of the background of each of the candidates on one of the BBC Flagship TV shows that always has the audience and critics commenting. The Apprentice.
Unlike previous years, the personalities are more reserved and no ‘Brands’ are leaping off the screen. However, early days are a pseudo to what really lies below the tough exterior that many convey. The prize of £250,000 rather than a job has increased the stakes, thus the increase in calibre was expected.
The first task: Invest, Create and Sell a Food Product
The men chose their team name, ‘Logic’ that instantly reminded me of a computer-product brand and was rather lacklustre. As Lord Sugar commented later, having the name Logic, and then not adhering to it will certainly raise eyebrows. It’s a bit like naming your team “On the Go”, but then not working as soon the evening hours sap your energy reserves. Edward self promoted himself to lead the team and instantly, the lack of leadership was apparent, especially in his ‘I’ll talk over you’ persona. To add to that, he did resemble a washed-up on a seaside look about him. If you did not intend to shave, at least smarten the hairs… improvise Edward!
The women eventually chose Venture and Melody forced her way, in a strategic manner to be elected as leader. I do wonder how much of that was because the other women did not want the other lady to take charge. Without being overly sexist, women do sometimes pivot away from those they see as a competitor to their challenge.
Taking leadership on the first task is always a huge risk. You are placing yourself into the firing line from the off before you truly know the strengths and weaknesses of your team. However, it can play to your benefit, once you get through the 1st task, there is a certainty that you will not be pushed into leading again for the next 6-7 tasks. Get in early before the tasks worsen, and in that time, you can learn and improve along the way.
The women made a plan and took the necessary strides to implement. Although they won, errors that made me cringe were:
- Not using the full value of purchasing power that Lord Sugar provided.
- Edna, the angry lady who controlled the purse strings was quite the bully in promoting her view. She also plays to the camera and is one to watch for temper tantrums. The moment anyone crosses her, she will unleash Conan the Barbarian onto them.
The men, lost and the blame is massively and deservedly placed at Edward Hunter. His errors;
- Lack of planning – in fact not having a plan whatsoever.
- Belittling staff to hit goals, like the little whipper he came across as.
- His “i don’t fit the [accountancy] mould”, comments that made his fate determined.
- Intervening in the juicing that eventually caused Leon to destroy the device. [Laughs].
The squirmy and perverted appearance of Vincent and his “hello, drink my juice” routine was off-putting and I hope he hits the brick wall soon.
TIP TO WIN: I will say Susan Ma from the women to win. (Hopefully she will raise her game and not let Edna bully her into submission).
I am undecided on the men…. Possible Thomas (Soup’erman).
WANT LESS OF: Vincent
WANT MORE OF: Nick and his chirpy one-liners
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