Donald J. Trump. As a real estate developer and reality show host, Trump, 69, has been a flashy figure in American life for a long time. He entered the race in June in an unusual way. At a time when Republicans were trying to make peace with Latino voters, he jumped on the issue of illegal immigration and said that people coming from Mexico were “bringing drugs.” bringing crime. Theyre rapists. Conservative voters were already very angry about this issue, and it got even worse when an illegal immigrant was charged with the murder of a young San Franciscan woman named Kate Steinle. Donald Trump speaks with CNBCs John Harwood at the Trump Grill in New York. Adam Jeffery | CNBC.
After three months, Trump is ahead of all his competitors for the Republican nomination across the country and in Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina, which are all important early states. He promised that up to $100 million of his huge wealth would go to his campaign. This means that he won’t have to ask people for money. Some people say his plan to cut the top tax rate on personal income to 25% and the top tax rate on businesses to 15% is too risky and will break the budget.
But now, it’s harder for him to win because of the rise of political outsiders like Ben Carson and Carly Fiorina, and because Republican primary voters are paying more attention as the party’s nominee gets closer. I had the chance to talk to Trump about his campaign at Trump Grill, a restaurant on the lower level of Trump Tower in midtown Manhattan. What follows is a condensed, edited transcript of our conversation.
HARWOOD: You started your campaign saying a bunch of things that are not real. Obama and where he was born — thats not real. You know where he was born. You know that were not going to deport 11 million people. Rates of illegal immigration have been declining, not going up.
TRUMP: You tell me. Go ahead, tell me: Where was he born? I dont discuss it. Because when I discuss it, you dont want to get on to jobs and the other things.
Many people would be better off staying in Mexico and other places instead of coming here because our country is doing so badly. Well see what happens. People have to be in this country legally. Ive taken a strong stance that we have a country where we dont. From the Republican standpoint, I can tell you its an issue thats very important.
You had the horrible situation with Kate — and many, many, many others. Thousands of others. Last week a woman was brutally murdered. A veteran, a 66-year-old veteran murdered and raped, sodomized, in California. Theres many cases like that. Its become a tremendous crime wave.
Have you seen “The Jinx” or the charges against Robert Durst? That doesn’t show that crime rates are going up because of real estate developers.
No, I dont say everybody. But there is a big problem and there is a crime problem. Certainly not everybody, and certainly not most, or even a big percentage. But it is a substantial percentage and there is tremendous crime.
Jeb told me the other day that Trump’s plan is to say things loudly and over and over again. If he does this, he can trick people into believing things that aren’t true. What do you say to that?.
TRUMP: Well I havent heard the statement. I think hes a very nice person, and hes doing very poorly. He maybe will do better. He’s going to spend a lot of money that I got from friends who watch your show, like guys from hedge funds and Wall Street. I don’t know what to do with it. People may have a different opinion of commercials when they understand where they’re coming from.
HARWOOD: You’ve made the case that Americans are having a hard time with the economy because their leaders are stupid. Isnt that a comic-book version of the economic story? The world has changed.
TRUMP: Well, their leaders are incompetent. In some cases, stupid, but certainly incompetent. You just have to look at whats happening with our country. We allow China to devalue their currency constantly. We allow Japan to devalue — they just did a big devaluation. We allow Mexico to take so many of our companies. Theyre killing us economically. China recently went up for a short time, but now they are devaluing a lot. I can tell you that it’s very hard for many of my friends who work in manufacturing to compete.
Another thing most people don’t know about China is that if you want to sell something there, you have to pay huge taxes, which are called tariffs. We dont charge them, but they charge us. So its a very unfair situation. I know that the world is a different place, but countries are taking advantage of us, big league.
HARWOOD: What would you say to someone who said that your campaign is all about making white Americans afraid and anxious by spreading the idea that their problems are caused by people who look different? This is because of the alarming pictures of illegal immigrants and the talk about China, Mexico, and Japan taking away jobs.
TRUMP: No, I dont think so. I dont want it to be and I dont think it is.
You know, my audiences are very — many, many blacks. A poll came out the other day showing that 25% of black people approve of me as a Republican. This is the highest number they’ve ever seen. In fact, they said that if an election were held and you got 25% of the black vote, like this poll shows, the election would be over and you would win. So, I mean, I see it in my audiences. I have tremendous numbers of Hispanics in my audiences. These are people that are here legally and they dont want people pouring across the border.
HARWOOD: When people ask you about your plans, like how you’ll pay for things or make ends meet, you say, “I’m Trump.” Im good. Im the best. I will get it done. ” Whos your model? We dont have Superman presidents.
TRUMP: No, but we will if you have Trump. You watch. Our country will not be harmed by our president, and he or she will not make bad deals. I think Ronald Reagan was a very good president.
HARWOOD: Reagan was rooted in a political movement, an ideological movement, for decades. What are you rooted in?
TRUMP: I think I have the movement going on. When I go to Mobile, Alabama, 35,000 people show up, when I go to New Hampshire, thousands of people crowd the theater, and when I go to Iowa, the theater is packed.
I mean, theres something going on, John. Its a movement of common sense. It’s a movement because we don’t want everyone to take advantage of our country. My slogan is “Make America Great Again.” ” That movement is happening.
Hey Woody, did you see what Jeb said about? He told you to copy his and just lower the rates a bit. But he said you should have tried a little fiscal responsibility. Jeb acknowledged that his plan would add at least $1 trillion over 10 years to the deficit. Yours is bigger.
TRUMP: I don’t agree with that because I think my plan will make our economy soar like a rocket. My plan is much more dynamic than his plan. My plan lowers the business tax much more than Jebs does. I think its going to be much more inspiring. A lot more jobs are going to be created with my plan than Jebs plan.
HARWOOD: Let’s say you win the election and find that all of these problems are much worse when you get there. “Hey wait a minute, I thought you were the Wizard of Oz,” people who vote for you say. What do you say to them?
TRUMP: You do admit Im leading in all the polls? Im a problem solver. I will not disappoint those people. I will not find that. I know how to solve problems. I will make even you proud to be an American again.
HARWOOD: If you know you’re going to lose primaries and can’t win anymore, would you finally decide to step down?
TRUMP: Well, Im not a masochist. Right now Im leading every poll, and in most cases big. Thats good. That would be different if I were like these people at 1% and 2%. There would be no reason to keep going. If I fell behind badly, I would certainly get out.
Im in this for the long haul. That doesnt mean someday I dont wake up and I say, “Wow, Im really tanking. ” Well, if I tank, sure, I go back to the business. Why wouldnt I?.
Nailing the Interview at Trump Hotels – How to Prepare for and Ace the Most Common Questions
Trump Hotels are synonymous with luxury experiences and exceptional service. Landing a role with one of these prestigious properties can be a coveted opportunity for hospitality professionals However, standing out amongst fierce competition starts with acing the interview
Understanding the types of questions asked and crafting compelling, thoughtful responses is key to getting hired by Trump Hotels. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top questions candidates are likely to encounter when interviewing for positions at Trump properties worldwide, along with advice on crafting winning answers:
- Why do you want to work for Trump Hotels?
Trump Hotels seeks candidates who are deeply aligned with their mission of delivering unrivaled guest experiences. When answering this question, do your research beforehand and explain specifically why you are drawn to the Trump brand. Highlight aspects of their values and culture that resonate with you. Convey genuine enthusiasm for the company and commitment to excellence in luxury hospitality.
Example: “Trump Hotels are the pinnacle of luxury experiences and service. Because of your well-known reputation, I would be able to use my hospitality skills in the perfect setting. What draws me most is your commitment to creating meaningful, personalized guest interactions. This aligns seamlessly with my values and passion for delivering exemplary service. ”.
- What does excellent customer service mean to you?
Customer service is paramount in the hospitality sector. With this question, hiring managers want to gauge your understanding of service excellence and ability to create remarkable guest experiences. Share your philosophy emphasizing attentiveness personalization, problem-solving skills and exceeding expectations. Provide an example that brings your philosophy to life.
“For me, great service means really personalized interactions that make guests feel like they are being seen as people, not just customers,” Like remembering guest preferences and acting on them to deliver tailored experiences. It’s also about anticipating needs proactively. For instance, one regular guest always orders a cappuccino in the afternoon. I had a fresh cappuccino ready for him when he walked into the lounge one day, and he was very happy. ”.
- Why do you feel you’re a strong fit for this role?
With this question, you want to directly make the case for why you’re an exceptional candidate for this specific position. Thoroughly review the job description and highlight how your background makes you uniquely qualified, with relevant examples to back it up. Tie it together with how you’ll leverage these assets to excel in the role.
Example: “As your Spa Manager role requires both strong operations abilities and a customer-focused outlook, I’m confident my experience makes me an excellent fit. For example, as spa lead at the Ritz-Carlton, I developed procedures that increased efficiency 32% while also enhancing the guest relaxation experience. Coupled with my training in massage therapy, I have the perfect blend of hospitality acumen, management skills and passion for wellness to excel in this position.”
- What does luxury hospitality mean to you?
Trump Hotels have an iconic luxury brand image. This question allows you to demonstrate your understanding of high-end hospitality concepts and articulate your own perspective on delivering luxurious experiences. Share thoughts on personalized service, exclusivity, attention to detail, elegant aesthetics and exceeding expectations.
Example: “To me, luxury hospitality is defined by service that anticipates guests’ every need and desire without even having to ask. It’s personalized touches like knowing guest preferences and acting on them to create a customized experience. It’s an environment where no detail is overlooked, from the finest linens to extraordinarily crafted cuisine to immaculately maintained facilities. And an unrelenting commitment to deliver excellence 24/7.”
- How would you handle an angry or unsatisfied guest?
Providing gracious service even in difficult situations is a must. Share your proven approach for de-escalating tensions, actively listening, expressing empathy, resolving problems creatively and ensuring guests feel cared for. Convey patience and commitment to winning back trust.
Example: “If a guest were angry, I’d listen closely to understand the full context of their dissatisfaction without interruption. I’d apologize sincerely, then share my perspective if appropriate while avoiding defensiveness. Once we found common ground, I’d accept accountability for any lapses and offer solutions to make it right, like complimentary services or discounts on a future stay. My goal would be for the guest to feel truly heard so we could rebuild trust.”
- How do you motivate and inspire team members?
Hospitality involves significant teamwork, so managers need leadership abilities. Discuss techniques for motivating staffers, like recognizing their achievements, empowering them to share ideas, mentoring, and communicating a compelling vision. Share examples of how you’ve inspired strong performances.
Example: “I motivate my team by first getting to know them individually to understand what drives each person. I recognize strong effort frequently and empower staff to take initiative and grow their skills. During stressful times, I communicate calmly and lead by example, highlighting our shared mission so the team stays inspired when facing challenges. My peers often comment that my positivity is motivating, and I’m proud that 2 staffers I mentored have been promoted to lead roles of their own.”
- How do you prioritize tasks when pressed for time?
Multitasking and time management abilities are essential for hospitality roles. Discuss your approach for prioritizing when facing multiple demands, such as delegating when possible, tackling urgent guest-related tasks first, communicating delays proactively, and seeking help from colleagues when needed.
Example: “When juggling many tasks, I stay flexible but focused on the guest experience above all else. I assess which initiatives directly impact guests in the moment, like check-ins or amenity requests, and complete those urgently to avoid delays. For projects with firm deadlines, I set milestones to avoid last-minute scrambling. I also delegate tasks to team members based on their strengths. This balanced approach ensures guests enjoy seamless service while critical projects get completed efficiently.”
- Describe a time you went above and beyond for a guest.
Trump Hotels seek staffers committed to incredible service. Share a specific example that brought delight to guests and exceeded expectations. Emphasize attention to detail, initiative and the positive feedback received.
Example: “One busy weekend, I overheard a family discussing plans to visit a popular local museum on Monday after checkout. Since I knew the museum would be closed that day, I discreetly informed them of the closure and suggested alternative activities their kids would enjoy. They were so appreciative that I spared them disappointment and provided options perfectly tailored to their needs. The family sent glowing feedback to my manager about my genuine care for their experience.”
- How do you handle stress or pressure on the job?
Hospitality can be faced-paced and stressful. Discuss healthy outlets for managing stress – taking short breaks, getting organized, asking colleagues for help, maintaining perspective and focusing on accomplishing one task at a time. Emphasize that quality service remains your top priority.
Example: “To manage stress, I use positive self-talk to maintain perspective and avoid catastrophizing minor issues. Taking a few moments to do deep breathing exercises helps me clear my mind and refocus. I also rely on my colleagues for support during crunch times. By tackling one task at a time, asking for help when needed and focusing on solutions rather than problems, I deliver quality work even amidst pressure.”
- Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Hiring managers want to gauge if you have drive and vision for professional growth. Share your goals for career progression, responsibilities, leadership or skills growth. Tailor your response to the company by including a desired role, location or program you’d like to participate in at Trump Hotels.
Example: “In 5 years, I see myself in a hospitality leadership role, managing a luxury property and leading a team to deliver outstanding guest experiences. I hope to progress my career here with Trump Hotels and deepen my expertise in the luxury space. I’d love the opportunity to participate in your management development program, with an ultimate goal of overseeing one of your flagship resort properties. I’m excited to grow long-term with Trump Hotels.”
- How do you stay up-to-date on hospitality industry trends?
Ongoing learning is valued in the hospitality field. Discuss reading industry publications, following thought leaders on social media, participating in associations, trainings and certifications. Share an example of a recent trend you adopted or advocated for in your workplace.
Example: “I make learning about hospitality a daily practice. I read Hotel Management magazine cover-to-cover to stay on top of the latest news and innovations. I also completed a hospitality trends certification last year through Cornell University, which introduced me to AI applications for personalized concierge services. I presented recommendations on implementing this technology at my last hotel, increasing guest satisfaction scores by 22%.”
- How do you ensure excellent hospitality hygiene and cleanliness practices?
Sanitation and cleanliness standards are more crucial than ever in hospitality. Share your commitment to maintaining updated training on safety protocols and using inspection checklists to ensure consistent compliance. Highlight your attentiveness to health and cleanliness concerns and providing guidance to any staffers needing redirection.
Example: “I take a proactive approach to ensuring excellent hygiene practices across the property. This starts with keeping my training current on safety protocols and local regulations
