BBC TV show The Apprentice is billed as providing an entertaining snapshot of the business world, giving viewers a taste of life at the sharp end of commerce.

To some extent it does provide insights into margins, logistics and sales techniques, with the contestants guided, chivvied and chastised along the way by the doughty Lord Sugar.

However reality TV being reality TV, the enjoyment for the viewers often comes from watching the contestants make daft decisions, argue, then face the wrath of the experts in the boardroom.

Many of those who now take part in the show are clearly after their 15 minutes of fame and are unwilling to co-operate with teammates – attributes that would see them get short shrift in the real world.

Often, they set an example of exactly how not to behave for would-be entrepreneurs bidding for their big break.

Entrant Sarah Ann Magson, head of civil litigation and action against police with Middlesbrough firm Watson Woodhouse, would appear to be a credible candidate and it is to be hoped she will do the North-East proud.

Raising the profile of the skills needed to succeed in industry is happy by-product of the show, but anyone considering using it as a template for going into business should probably give it a wide berth.

Talking to real-life entrepreneurs would be a better idea, as would focusing on the trait most contestants lack – good, old fashioned common sense.