“Failure in business is a good thing” says Doncaster’s Apprentice star
FRANCES BISHOP has shot to prominence on TV show The Apprentice where multimillionaire Sir Alan Sugar puts job candidates through the wringer for a chance to be his next protege.
Ms Bishop is an entrepreneur who runs children’s clothing store Pud, which has sites in Newark and Nottingham as well as Doncaster.
1. Why did you decide to apply to The Apprentice?
It was a complete last minute thing. I’d applied the year before and got an audition but never went, so I thought I may as well go for it! I’ve been told by people in the retail industry that for someone with no background in retail, I’d done well. It was a case of finding that next step and pushing myself.
2. Did you expect to make it through to the final 18?
Definitely not! My husband Neal was adamant that I would. He is amazing, and tells me I can do anything. I think it’s important to have someone there who supports you unconditionally. I actually printed my CV off the night before the audition in the pub; so I think that tells you how lacking in confidence I was!
3. How different is the process from the way it appears on TV?
“The process is completely different from what you see on TV! The hardest thing was the lack of contact with my family, which was difficult as I have a three year old little boy. That’s why you have to make sure you are Doing the show for the right reasons as there’s so many sacrifices the public don’t see!”
4. What was the most valuable lesson you learned through your time on the show?
Probably that failure in business is a good thing. It’s only from previous failures or mistakes we make, that we can grow and improve. Lord Sugar, Karren and Claude have a wealth of knowledge it it was an absolute privilege to work with them. I also think I’m much more capable than what I realised when I first started the process.
5. How do you think the experience will help your business?
It’s definitely made me more self critical or the way I do things, and highlighted areas I need to improve. I’m really lucky that my business is entering its third year which means it’s becoming much more established. We’ve a great customer base, and launching online with our new EPOS system will see both profits and customer base increase. I’m really excited for the future.
6. What one piece of advice would you give a prospective Apprentice candidate?
Be yourself, don’t try and please everyone and of course…kill them with kindness.
