Almost half of UK business people believe that reality television shows like 'The Apprentice' are inspiring a new wave of entrepreneurs who believe they have what it takes to succeed, new research has found. However, the survey, conducted by Bibby Financial Services (BFS), also found that a quarter of respondents believed that the programmes are "demeaning business for the sake of entertainment". Their point is one that echoes comments recently made by the former Confederation of British Industry director general Sir Digby Jones, who criticised the BBC show's upfront approach, saying it "does a great disservice" to UK business. Sir Alan Sugar risked "turning young people off" business with his confrontational style, he said. Regardless of the positive or negative ramifications, nine out of 10 respondents to the BFS poll said that business reality TV is having a noticeable impact on UK business culture, with many reporting a rise in workplace ambition. "UK businesses are thriving and it seems that bringing the world of trade to a wider audience is acknowledged by the business community as largely a good thing," said David Robertson, BFS chief executive. Date:17 May 2007
Content by: Made Simple Group
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