Entrepreneur & TV's Apprentice
By Rebecca Logue
Kendra Todd talks about passion in business and what it means to be Donald Trump's right hand woman.
Best known as the first female winner of NBC's The Apprentice, Kendra Todd, 27, was hired by Donald Trump after winning a series of difficult tasks. The prize -- a one year, $250,000 contract. This year, Todd is working double time, overseeing the refurbishing of a Florida mansion for The Donald while running her own company, My House Real Estate Inc. Todd says this weekend, a family with a 1-year-old child left homeless by Hurricane Katrina, will move into one of her vacant condo units. "They basically lost everything. You just get this knot in your heart." PINK spoke with Kendra about networking, success and how she became the last woman standing.
How did you decide to try out for The Apprentice?
Initially, my partner and I were going there to recruit people to work for my company. I figured the type of person trying out for The Apprentice was the type of person I wanted working for me, hardworking and determined. By the time we got to the front of the line, we were not done talking to everyone and figured we might as well try out. My business partner went first and told the casters they should hire me.
So actually that was a form of networking.
One thing I have learned is that you never, ever know who you are going to get your next client from. You may not see the value immediately, but two or three months down the road, this person can become a valuable client. The most challenging aspect of networking can be maintaining communications with your web of people. I try to send out a monthly or bimonthly e-mail to keep the communication level up with all of my contacts. I keep what I call an "inventory of contacts." Also, going out and getting involved in the community is an extremely valuable way to gain contacts.
What characteristics do you have that make you successful in the business world?
I don't know how to quit. I say, just "find a way, make a way." I will get three nos before I get a yes. Be able to see past today and be able to ask yourself, "Where do you want your company to be in 5 to 10 years?" Have a vision and a passion and be really creative and have an innovative approach to business.
What advice would you give women who want greater success?
Go above and beyond the call of duty. I am always looking for people who are resourceful; I want employees who can think outside the box, who dive in headfirst or the opportunity will pass you by. Do not be afraid to make mistakes. I tell my employees, "If you make a mistake, it is okay, just tell me." Making mistakes is part of learning. But if you don't tell me, there is a great chance the mistake will get much bigger further down the road.
Who are your role models?
I don't really have any role models, just mentors, someone out there whom you can consult to share their mistakes so that you can avoid the same ones. Mentors are so important.
Do people treat you differently because your newfound fame is related to reality TV?
It really has opened a lot of doors to opportunity quicker. We were doing well before but now I feel like we are going 90 mph in second gear. It has been a great vehicle to achieving financial freedom and inspiring people into action.
What is the secret of success?
Absolutely, the number-one ingredient, being passionate about your job. You don't have to be the smartest, but you do have to work the hardest. Passion will supersede brilliance.
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