NBC.com

Celebrity Apprentice:
Lessons Learned from Episode Twelve

Trump University

Episode Summary:

The final four became the final TWO!

Only Carol, Lennox, Piers and Trace remained as this week's episode began. But just as the four contestants were getting ready to do battle, Mr. Trump delivered a surprise. They would all undergo a grilling by two leading business commentators, Erin Burnett and Jim Cramer. Erin and Jim would then name two people for Mr. Trump to fire. In only two hours, only two finalists would remain!

Erin and Jim interviewed the candidates, then singled out Piers and Lennox to be fired. But Mr. Trump fired Lennox and Carol instead. He said that wanted to see Piers and Trace do battle in the final task.

Mr. Trump then announced the final project. There would be a major charity event, and the two men would supervise different aspects of it. One of them would handle the catering and a live charity auction; the other would manage the décor and the Backstreet Boys, who would perform at the event. The winner would be picked based on his ability to 1) sell tickets to the event; 2) raise money; and 3) handle his assigned tasks.

Then Mr. Trump brought back Carol, Lennox, Marilu and Stephen to help Piers and Trace. New teams were chosen. Trace's would include himself, Lennox and Marilu. Piers got Carol and Stephen.

Piers and Trace divided up responsibilities. Piers would handle the auction and catering. Trace would manage entertainment, décor and food.

Piers went to see Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York - the famous "Fergie" - who promised to bring in money. Trace chartered two jets to fly country celebrities to New York. His goal was to "fill the room with cowboy hats." He also asked his country contacts to contribute guitars and other collectibles to be auctioned.

Stephen started to try to get celebrities to attend the event, but simply stopped trying when his contacts were not available on short notice. And Trace was having a tough time with the Backstreet Boys, who were demanding two dressing rooms equipped with a lavish assortment of drinks and health foods.

The charity event will not be shown until next week, but as this week's episode drew to a close, the battle lines are drawn. Can Piers bring in enough bucks to score a win? And can Trace rein in the Backstreet Boys and bring off a blockbuster show? We'll know next week!

* * *

This week's episode taught important lessons about winning when the stakes are high. Here's a closer look.

* * *

When Lennox seemed uneasy during his interviews with Erin and Jim, his lack of polish gave his competitors a critical advantage.

Success Lesson

Always have an "elevator speech" ready. It's a short, well-rehearsed explanation of your accomplishments and plans. Write one and practice it - it can be critical to your success.

* * *

At the props house, Lennox kept yelling "Done!" to force Marilu to make quick decisions about décor for the event. He was trying to stop her from repeating her scattered performance on the QVC task a few weeks ago.

Success Lesson

Yes, Lennox came on too strong. But sometimes you have to act forcefully to prevent colleagues from repeating crippling mistakes.

* * *

When Stephen simply stopped trying to get celebrities to attend the charity event, he showed a total lack of initiative that will permanently tarnish his image as an Apprentice contender. Sure, he couldn't get James Gandolfini or Ben Stiller to come to the phone – but why did he stop trying there?

Success Lesson

Never say die! Your ability to dig deeper and solve problems ultimately determines your success.

* * *

When Piers decided to give 20 valuable event tickets to wounded veterans, he was hoping that their presence would inspire people at the event to support his charity.

Success Lesson

Lofty goals and business success really can go hand-in-hand. When you see an opportunity to do well by doing good, explore it.

* * *

When the Backstreet Boys presented Trace with an unreasonable list of demands, he told them flat-out that there was no way he could meet their requirements in time for the event.

Success Lesson

Be assertive and say no. When people are being unreasonable, say so fast - and then explain why. You have to set guidelines quickly about what you can and cannot do.

* * *

What will happen next week? It will be one of the most explosive Apprentice finales ever. See you there!