"Why do you go?" is a question that I am sometimes asked. I am referring to the Marine Dealer Conference and Expo (MDCE) held each year in Orlando, Florida. There are many reasons, some selfish, and others not.
Val and I have gone now two years in a row (three for me) and it is a micro break from the normal workflow and our day-to-day lives in Portland. So, selfishly, it's a mini vacation. Some one-on-one time to connect and recharge.
Really though, we go for you. What does that mean exactly? We go so that we can learn the tools and become inspired to make better, make exceptional, your experience at Len's Cove Marina. That may sound a little corny, and you are right, it is. And yet, it is the truth. We love what we do; we want the best for you and are constantly working to deliver that.
Getting away from the emails and phone calls to learn from the best speakers and dealers in all of North America is empowering and provides new view points, opinions, and strategies to use in your marina. One thing that was most prevalent was the idea of creating an experience for you that is second to none, and something that will inspire your dreams and help you write the best boating stories by improving and increasing your time on the water.
There were speakers that focused on the service and parts department and how they are the core of a great marina. Some speakers focused of how we market our business. Interestingly, they said nothing about spending more money on advertising. They all emphasized making you so happy that your loyalty becomes the marketing. Your stories inspire others to want those moments too.
Of course, these are just ideas. The real work and the hard part comes when we return. Regardless how good the products, process, and presentations were, the only thing that really matters is action, implementation, feedback, and follow through. The notes and ideas that Val and I brought back are just step one in a long road ahead to shape the next few weeks, months, and years at Len's Cove.
I bring Val because we value the time together firstly. Most importantly though, she really cares about you and the marina, and brings a different perspective that is healthy and she challenges my thinking and inspires me to act.
The work with our team will begin the moment I am back in my office. I am very excited for the 2014 boating season ahead. Thank-you for being our customer.