It's all in the market research

Now I have some inside information on Market Research; I worked in the industry for nearly two years, and learnt two very important things: you can lead the respondent to answer in a particular way and you need more than 4 respondents. I even knew that from an O Level research exercise. But then again, I don't run a global industry. And I don't have a wealth of awards - although I'm up for the viola player of the year award in our household, which is a given, since I'm the ONLY viola player in the household.

It is also not de rigeur to interpret 'very good' and 'excellent' for, 'not really' and 'okay': unless your French isn't quite as good as you've talked yourself up to be. Or perhaps you just didn't like the product and wanted to ensure it wasn't selected. Or maybe you don't have a good grasp of what consumer's might buy, which is a surprise since you run a global organisation and have been mentored by an impressive list of world class thinkers and Nobel Prize Winners.

Please don't think I'm just getting at Melody. She is a tigress and as Lord S said, she will fight for her place in the Apprentice. She also worked incredibly hard getting appointments, and had a stab at speaking French. However, it was all for her own gain; she isn't a team player and had an inability to hear requests for anything that wouldn't further her own position within the process. She based her decisions on 'gut instinct' without considering any evidence and also conveniently 'forgot' to do some tasks that the team leader asked her to - research on La Redoute for example.

Personally I have a problem with individuals that constantly blow their own trumpet: the 'All talk and no action' brigade. They expect everyone to shine their lights on them; illuminating their talent at the expense of everyone else's. My friend Samantha told me that when she met Rupert Murdoch, he had a charisma and he listened to what everyone said. He really paid attention and made you feel that your opinion was valid. He then went away and considered the evidence (statistical and opinion) before making a decision. He runs a successful global business. That is the skill base you need to be successful Melody. I can't wait to see her in the interviews!