What should you expect from the first-ever DealerKnows Summer Camp?

You mean, beyond a wholly unique automotive conference experience? Because that’s a guarantee.

We too were ambassadors of the golden age of educational events that were steeped in “Internet sales” (before the word “digital” was so prevalent). To prepare for our very first conference of our own, we identified everything that made those earliest conferences great and then recognized all that has changed since to water down and homogenize that experience.

So we flipped everything on its ear, added a dash of nostalgia, a hint of whimsy, an insane line-up of experts, an outdoor setting, team-building activities, a campfire, and a considerable amount of planning. We assure you that you and your team will return from camp with knowledge and methods to implement said teachings to improve performance. Memories to last a lifetime included.

If that alone is not good enough, here is what you’ll find at the DealerKnows Summer Camp.

Trainers, not speakers

We’re removing PowerPoint presentations. Each individual educating your team at the DealerKnows Summer Camp has been hand-selected as a subject matter expert in a variety of topics. This will require them to discuss not just best practices but their application and implementation of them in a hands-on, intimate setting. (No slide decks means no sales pitches from a stage.)

Trailblazers, Trailmasters, and Camp Counselors

Did we mention “hand-picked”? Yes, no one applied to speak. These are people we trust to give you the best insight possible.

How you’ll learn at the DealerKnows Summer Camp

• Day 1 will be dedicated to Trailblazers sharing fundamental best practices and tactics to compete in a do-it-yourself, high-effort, limited budget, grassroots, guerilla-style environment. They’ll make your team cutting edge at the basics of each topic.
• Day 2 is where our Trailmasters will build upon that education to help you dominate your market by incorporating technology, measurement, and advanced strategies into your playbook.
• Day 3 is when our incredible Camp Counselors meld the learnings from Days 1 and 2, add their own best practices recommendations, and work with you to provide actionable takeaways to implement.

A look toward the future

We’re inviting both the dealership executives currently driving your stores as well as the future leaders of your organization. We want your store to come as a pair – bring both an executive manager and the protégé. Every dealership has eyed that one employee you hope is a long-lasting member of your team. With both leader and future leader in attendance, they can form a true bond, ensuring you can enhance your store’s performance now as well as blaze a path to a profitable and promising future.

Team-building

Based on your answers to a pre-camp “confidence survey”, you will be assigned a “camp”. There, your camp counselor will mentor you and the rest of your team. Throughout each day, your camp counselor will lead your team through a variety of activities to strengthen your bond, share opportunities for leadership, learn teamwork, and improve communication.

You know, just like how you hope it happens at your dealership. (Trailblazers and Trailmasters were urged to join their camp as well). Just a smattering of the events we have for teams to participate in is kickball, soccer, H.O.R.S.E., archery, chess, disc golf, hiking, and even canoe relay races.

Time for self-care

Some people don’t like getting sweaty. No sweat. You can either meet with our certified Ayurvedic practitioner to meditate and perform destressing breathing exercises or hang out in the vendor village. (Or you could even go swimming instead if you wanted).

Did you say Vendor Village?

Surrounding the campground are cabins that select, trusted vendor partners will inhabit. There, they will have their own educational opportunities, themed events/parties, and a comfortable place to relax and network.

The right to be comfy

This is the land of Sketchers and New Balance, not stilettos. Don’t show up in a 3-piece suit or a cocktail dress. This is t-shirt and shorts country. You’ll want to be as comfortable as possible. Swag may be provided 😉

A safe and inclusive environment

Did you ever worry about fitting in? Don’t. We are personally bringing in some of the most supportive, caring people to mentor you, make sure you feel included, and ensure you are getting the most out of the summer camp. That is not just the goal of DealerKnows, but of everyone at camp. We approve high-fives, and we ban bullying.

Worry-free accommodations

While Bill at DealerKnows is an avid outdoorsman, Joe’s idea of camping is a Holiday Inn without cable. Rest assured; no one is sleeping outside or on the ground. We will be transporting campers back and forth to nearby lodges in the morning and evening.

Your breakfast, lunch, and dinners at the camp are covered to save money! Room blocks disappear on March 22nd so get a move on. (I mean, if you really wanted to rough it or wait too long, you could bring a tent and set it up at the campground, but that would be totally up to you.)

Indoor/outdoor

DealerKnows believes there is something psychologically beneficial about sunshine, so while you may be eating and learning indoors, you will be participating in activities outdoors, so you don’t just soak up knowledge but a little vitamin D as well.

Transportation

Much like a real summer camp, you will be asked to arrive on time at ATL airport (on May 22^nd), and we will transport you to Camp Blue Ridge in Clayton GA. (The earlier you arrive at the airport, the better.) You can choose to return to your home base on the 25^th or 26^th, and we’ll also bus you back. The camp is a solid 2.5 hours from Atlanta Hartsfield International Airport, but you’ll be among like-minded DKSC campers on the ride.)

Parties (including an educational scavenger hunt)

Have you even met us? Just know that you’re in for a fun time both during the day and in the evenings with what we have planned. Unlike a real summer camp, no kids are allowed. (Meaning, there may be a few adult beverages around in the evening.) Yes, if you know Joe, there will be karaoke.

In the end, DealerKnows has done its absolute best to surround you with great leaders, solid educators, a fun and challenging schedule of learning and activities, trusted vendor partners, and a promise to make this your favorite automotive conference possible. DealerKnows Summer Camp has been a glimmer of hope in the eyes of our company for a decade. We are planning what we believe to be an incredible event that you will truly regret missing.

Dont miss the DealerKnows Summer Camp

Don’t want to get F.O.M.O.? Get started registering!