How did appearing on The Apprentice change your life? What are you doing now?
The Apprentice has given me insight into human nature, and it gave me the opportunity to learn a tremendous amount about myself. It has opened me up to unbelievable experiences and wonderful people, in particular the Trump family and the Trump Organization.
After the show, I no longer have to tell coworkers and employers that I will need to take off from work for the Jewish holidays. Shortly after the finale, Mr. Trump offered me a position at Trump Mortgage working on commercial financing and business development.
Who, if anyone, from the show do you keep in contact with?
The Apprentice opened me up to so many amazing people, from whom I learned a tremendous amount. Although I occasionally hear from nearly everyone, I still keep in close touch with Lenny, Roxanne, Michael, Pepe, Allie, Summer and Stacey. They are all incredibly good people. I consider myself fortunate to have made some lifelong friends over the course of my time on the show.
In your opinion, what three words best describe Donald Trump?
Sorry, three words are not sufficient. In no particular order: visionary, fighter, honest, loyal, winner.
What advice would you offer to the current candidates?
Always be one step ahead and never lose sight of the fact that everyone has the same goal in mind. The boardroom is where the game is won or lost, but being there can work to your advantage. Over the course of my fifteen weeks, I spent nine in the boardroom, and that is where Mr. Trump got the chance to know me well. The first week after someone gets fired, don't say, "I am just glad I didn't get fired first". I knew immediately that those people were finished because they had already accomplished their goal - not being first. I on the other hand, was there to win.
When going into the boardroom never pack your bag. Don't let the thought of getting fired even enter your mind, and it intimidates the other candidates. Never prepare for the boardroom; Mr. Trump will see right through it. Always know you are going to get the same question from Mr. Trump every time you go to the boardroom, "So who do you think I should fire?" Chose one person, and say that person's name every time until they get fired. It is always better to have one person hate you than many.
Step up to be project manager as many times as your team will allow. Who cares if the winners are usually wallflowers? That is not what the experience is about. It's about making your mark and being memorable. It is about leaving everything out on that boardroom table. It is about getting emails from fifteen-year-old kids saying they want to be like you. It is about making your family proud. When that happens, thank G-d and consider yourself the luckiest person in the world.
What general advice would you give on how to succeed in business?
Always differentiate yourself from the crowd. Being successful in business is all about finding disequilibrium, having vision, and being able to change the status quo. Successful people aren't like everyone else; their unique qualities are what sets them apart and drives their success. Take calculated risks and let your principles guide you. Surround yourself with people whose morals and opinions you respect. Success is not measured in dollars and cents. It is measured in happiness and health. Have fun and the dough will come.