Tim Ankers Talks Junior Apprentice

11 June 2010

Hunky Tim Ankers

Tim Ankers was the heartthrob of this first ever series of the Junior Apprentice so I was rather excited when we got to chat to him about his time on the show.

1.   Why did apply for Junior Apprentice?

I have always been a fan of the main series, fancying my chances as much as every other armchair critic, so when a junior version was announced, and I happened to be in the fairly narrow age range, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to give it a try. It was a long shot from the start, but paid off in the end.

2.       How did you find your time on the show?

Loved every minute of the process. When you look back on what you’ve been through it seems surreal, but when you are actually going through the experience, it seems strangely natural.

3.       What did you think of Lord Sugar, Nick and Karren?

A lot of people admire Nick Hewer, and that admiration is certainly not misplaced. He is a sound bite machine. Before meeting Nick I was already one of his many fans and I’m pleased to report he is just as legendry in the flesh, as he is on camera. He is the exception that proves the rule never meet your heroes. Karren is an inspirational figure who was extremely approachable and friendly, but at the same time incredibly vigilant, and in her own words, not to be underestimated. Aside from her copious capabilities as Lord Sugar’s aide, she had a bloody nice watch, which was enough to win me over alone. Lord Sugar is the straightest talking man, I have ever had the pleasure to meet; one of those people who you look at and think I wish I was as quick witted as him. I can only hope to one day have his ability to walk into a room and command respect as he does.

5.       What were your highlights of the experience?

Surprisingly, my highlights have to be the (many) boardroom battles, I took part in. Fighting your corner for hours on end, may not sound like everybody’s favorite past time, but I relished the chance to analyse why our team failed and to express my opinion on the matter. Each time, you escape the boardroom (still in the competition), releases an intense feeling of relief; the same feeling the guys who take part in the Pamplona Bull Run must enjoy.

6.       How do you think this experience will help you in the future?

The whole competition matures you. Many life skills are learned and developed. For me, the experience has shown me to believe in myself, which is so fundamental in all walks of life, whichever path I chose.

7.       What are you doing now?
I am focusing on my A-level exams, and continue to do part time farm work.

8.       What are your hopes for your future career?

I would eventually like to be my own boss. However, I am currently looking for interesting employment opportunities to build up experience and expertise in the business world. I feel I could be a valuable asset to a diverse range of businesses and would love the chance to put my energy, ideas and enthusiasm into helping to create growth within a company.

9.   What would you to say to any fellow young aspiring business people? Any advice?

It’s the standard answer I know, but it’s probably the best; HARD WORK. Natural ability can get you so far; hard work can get you further.

10. What have you learnt about business from your experience on JA?

That you have to have a broad range of abilities; it is not enough to excel in just one area.