Landing a Live Interview Without "The Donald"

Donald Trump is famous for, among other things, The Apprentice TV show.

In the show, The Donald puts wanna-be moguls through their paces in various tasks. These tasks are part of a grueling 16 (or 18) week job interview. Some weeks, the teams could sell lemonade on the streets of New York City. Other weeks, they may design a beverage bottle, open an art museum or hawk pizzas.

His rationale is clear: Trump wants to see teamwork, leadership, and the ability to go for the jugular when needed. After all - it's not personal...it's just business.

His is not the only game in town, however (and we're not talking about the billionaires who hosted inferior TV clones). Job seekers can go through non-broadcast live interviews, too. The process may be longer or shorter than what Ivana's ex puts his potential proteges through, and the coveted job's salary may be less (not always), but the chance of landing a great job is higher.

How do you find these other live interviews? You may find them through:

Committees. Whether chairing or serving on a committee, you showcase your talents to those you work or socialize with - just like Apprentice hopefuls. In fact, your efforts may catch the attention of some business leaders you otherwise would not meet. At work, your committee work may give you the edge in nabbing a promotion. In social or civic groups like Kiwanis, Rotary, Toastmasters or Lions Clubs, your efforts may land you a job.

Freelancing. Many turn to freelancing to either supplement their regular income or to make a few bucks while between "regular" employment. Many are offered jobs by companies they freelance at. Why? Because they've proven their worth over the length of a project. And, because freelancers generally charge more than employees earn in salary, companies can save money by hiring them full time.

Contracting. Different than freelancing, contracting is often done through an agency or contract house. In many cases, the contractor is placed with a company on a temp-to-hire basis. Many are let go after a short period (e.g. 3 or 6 months) because they don't have what the employers want. A smaller number are brought on full time because they have the right skills, knowledge, work ethic and personality for those companies.

IN A NUTSHELL: You don't need to go on The Apprentice to have a live interview. You can accomplish the same thing - with better results - by serving on a committee, freelancing or contracting.