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Episode Fourteen - April 22, 2007  |  permalink
Presented by Trump University

Episode Summary: Stefani was hired as Mr. Trump's Apprentice in last night's season finale, broadcast live from the Hollywood Bowl!

Mr. Trump was joined onstage by Don Jr., Ivanka and the final four candidates: Frank, James, Nicole and Stefani. After a video recap of season highlights, the previously fired contestants arrived onstage. Throughout the show, they weighed in with their opinions about who should be hired.

As the selection process moved along, the four final candidates watched the Renuzit commercials they made last week. Then they came in for some pointed questioning from Mr. Trump and his children. Mr. Trump then fired Frank, citing his team's weak Renuzit video. Then he fired Nicole for her lack of leadership and judgment, pointing to her romance with Tim while the season was in progress.

James and Stefani, the final two, then endured criticism and questions from Don Jr., Ivanka and George Ross, who made a surprise appearance.

James and Stefani then showed films they had made about themselves. James's film emphasized his roles as a father and an ambitious man who had come to America from South Korea to live the American dream. Stefani's video showcased her assertiveness as an attorney.

Perhaps it was the strength of Stefani's video that tipped the balance in her favor. Mr. Trump hired her as this season's chosen Apprentice.

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This week's episode taught vital lessons about what it takes to win a tough race. Let's take a closer look.

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Mr. Trump praised the four final candidates, but still went on to subject them to a tough grilling.

Success Lesson

Don't ever let down. Even when you can taste victory, you still need to dig deeper and find the resolve to reach the finish line. That's what Stefani did to reach the top. One day, you might have to do it too.

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Mr. Trump attacked Nicole for her romance with Tim. In the final analysis, that was the greatest factor that caused him to doubt her potential to lead.

Success Lesson

Avoid office romances. They can only weaken your image as a level-headed leader and block your success.

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Frank said, "I want to thank you for the opportunity, Mr. Trump" after he was fired. That proved he is a real gentleman, despite his rough-edged personality.

Success Lesson

Be gracious when you lose. Frank's good manners and graciousness will bring him new opportunities and challenges - maybe even with the Trump Organization itself - despite the fact that he was not the season winner.

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Stefani's video showed that she is an assertive attorney and leader. It was just the right video to promote her cause, because it confronted head-on many of the criticisms that were directed against her this season. In that one short film, she demonstrated that she was assertive, polished and poised under fire - a fine leader. In contrast, James's video did little to fight the main criticism he endured this season: that he was sometimes too intense and energetic to be a good team player.

Success Lesson

Come out swinging! Listen to criticisms that are being directed against you and confront them head-on! Stefani did that and won. James didn't and lost.

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What did we learn this season? Last season focused on listening and serving the client well. This season was all about focus, professionalism and teamwork. What a great season! Thank you for reading Lessons Learned on NBC.com!