Waiting until the last minute is one of the biggest mistakes I see people make. The proposal process is detailed, competitive, and requires careful preparation if you want your submission to stand out.

Below are some of the key things you need to know before you submit.

First, Understand What NADA Is Really Looking For

NADA is not looking for product pitches.

They are looking for educational sessions that provide real value to dealers. The best proposals focus on real world strategies that dealership leaders can take back to their stores and implement immediately.

Topics that typically resonate include:

• Fixed operations profitability
• Technician recruitment and retention
• Customer retention strategies
• Leadership and dealership culture
• Digital marketing and customer engagement
• Operational efficiency and innovation

If your proposal sounds like a product demo, it will likely be rejected. The selection committee wants thought leaders and educators, not sales presentations.

Every Proposal Must Include Several Key Components

A successful submission includes multiple elements that must work together to tell a compelling story.

These typically include:

• A strong session title
• A short synopsis explaining the topic
• A detailed session description
• Clearly defined learning objectives
• Three key takeaways for attendees
• The intended audience for the presentation
• Engagement strategies for the session

Each section needs to clearly demonstrate how the presentation will help dealership operators improve their business.

This is where many proposals fall short. They focus on what the speaker wants to talk about rather than what dealers need to learn.

The Video Is the Most Important Part of the Submission

In my experience, the 90 second video submission is the single most important element of the entire proposal.

You only have a minute and a half to convince the selection panel that:

1. You are qualified to speak on the topic
2. Your session will deliver real value to dealers
3. You are capable of delivering an engaging presentation

Many applicants underestimate how important this video is. They record something quickly and upload it without much preparation.

That is a mistake.

The video should be carefully planned and professionally delivered. You need to clearly communicate the core value of your session and demonstrate confidence and credibility as a presenter.

Think of it this way.

The selection committee may review hundreds of submissions. Your video is your opportunity to stand out.

You cannot afford to waste those 90 seconds.

Your Topic Must Be Clear, Practical, and Actionable

The most successful NADA sessions share a common trait.

They focus on real world dealership solutions.

The committee wants presentations that help dealers solve problems, improve operations, and increase profitability.

That means your proposal should clearly explain:

• The challenge dealers face
• The strategy you will present
• The results they can expect

If a dealer leaves your session without actionable ideas they can implement immediately, the presentation probably missed the mark.

Choosing the Right Track Matters

NADA sessions are organized by specific educational tracks such as:

• Fixed Operations
• Leadership
• Human Capital
• Marketing and Digital Strategy
• Variable Operations
• Business Innovation

Submitting under the wrong category can reduce your chances of being selected. Your topic should clearly align with the track you choose.

Why Preparation Matters

Each year, hundreds of proposals compete for a limited number of speaking opportunities.

That means your submission needs to be polished, professional, and perfectly aligned with NADA’s expectations.

A rushed submission is easy for reviewers to spot.

The most successful proposals are carefully developed with a clear message, a strong value proposition, and a well thought out presentation strategy.

Why You Should Start Now

The deadline to submit proposals is April 24, but that date arrives faster than you think.

Developing a strong topic, writing the proposal, and preparing the video takes time. Starting early gives you the opportunity to refine your message and ensure every element of the submission is working together.

Over the years I have seen many great ideas miss the opportunity simply because the proposal was rushed.

Final Thoughts

Speaking at NADA is one of the most powerful ways to build credibility in the automotive industry.

It positions you as a thought leader, introduces you to dealership decision makers, and creates opportunities that can last for years.

But getting selected requires preparation and a deep understanding of what the selection committee is looking for.

After being selected 16 times during my career, and helping clients like Rapid Recon secure speaking slots year after year, I can tell you that success rarely happens by accident.

It happens when the proposal is thoughtful, strategic, and aligned with what dealers truly need to learn.

If you are thinking about submitting a proposal this year, my advice is simple.

Start now. Plan carefully. And make sure every element of your submission is done right.

The opportunity is there, but the competition is real.

And remember, you only get 90 seconds to make your case.  If you would like my assistance, feel free to reach out.