Best-selling author, trust expert is MDCE opening keynote

David Horsager, a best-selling author and expert on trust, has been chosen as the opening keynote speaker for the 2018 Marine Dealer Conference & Expo.

Horsager’s keynote presentation “Build Trust or Die in the New Economy” is set for Monday, Dec. 10. Horsager will teach attendees how to create an actionable framework for earning trust to grow their businesses.

Horsager is founder and CEO of the Trust Edge Leadership Institute, which researches and consults on the bottom-line impact of trust.

“Grow Boating’s First-Time Boat Buyer research shows that first-time buyers often struggle to connect with dealership personnel and build trust in the purchasing process. This is why establishing trust, in an authentic way, is so important in dealerships today,” said Liz Walz, vice president and director of education at the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas. “David will show already trustworthy dealers how to better communicate that trustworthiness, so our customers know where to turn for help, advice and of course, buying a boat.”

During this powerful keynote, you’ll discover that there are no short cuts to gaining a trust edge. Top sales and service professionals have the opportunity to build trust in every interaction with prospects and customers by incorporating eight pillars of trust into their strategies, goals and culture.

Dealers who excel at earning trust have a huge advantage. Not only are they able to win and keep more business, but the data also suggests customers will pay more for products and services offered by businesses they trust, driving higher profitability.  

“David’s keynote is rooted in demonstrating how each of us can develop a strong, trust-built bond with our customers, prospects and colleagues,” explained Tim Hennagir, editor of Boating Industry, which co-produces the MDCE with MRAA. 

The MDCE Opening Keynote, which is sponsored by Smoker Craft, Inc., is relevant to all staff, as developing trust with customers and prospects is vital to each role within the dealership.

The 2018 MDCE will be held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., Dec. 9-12. Horsager’s keynote presentation will be preceded by MDCE’s popular Pre-Conference Workshops and the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas’ Annual Meeting & Special Presentation, the latter of which is open to all MDCE attendees.