From AppExchange Aha! to Authentic Connections: How Dreamforce Sparked Andre van Kampen’s Salesforce Journey

About Andre van Kampen

Founder, KampKonsult

Andre van Kampen is the founder of KampKonsult, a global Salesforce implementation partner and data quality advocate with years of experience guiding organizations through CRM transformation.

Based in Amsterdam and well-connected across the Salesforce ecosystem, Andre’s Dreamforce journey began in 2018 and forever changed how he sees his work, his network, and his own possibilities as a consultant and entrepreneur.

Stepping into Dreamforce: Awe, Overwhelm, and Inspiration

My first Dreamforce was in 2018. Until then, the largest Salesforce gatherings I’d attended were World Tours—which, in hindsight, now feel positively cozy by comparison! Nothing prepared me for the sheer scale: city blocks taken over, venues scattered across downtown, and the constant bustle of Trailblazer hoodies and excitement all around.

By the end of day one, I realized 3.5 days would never be enough to get to all my planned sessions, let alone meet everyone I’d hoped! But what could have felt daunting turned out to be magical—thanks to advice and support from a colleague who was a seasoned Dreamforce guide. They drew me into the flow of curated sessions, AppExchange meetups, and—most powerfully—networking events that forced me out of my comfort zone and into transformative conversations.

The One Conversation That Planted a Seed

A highlight was a Salesforce-organized networking session where my colleague gently “dragged” me to meet other AppExchange partners. Networking was never high on my “fun” list, but that changed in a heartbeat. Surrounded by peers with the same niche interests, I struck up a powerful and inspirational conversation with a partner about the vast potential within the ISV ecosystem.

That conversation planted a seed that would eventually grow into something bigger. While it took several years and many other experiences to fully develop, that initial inspiration about what was possible in the Salesforce ecosystem stayed with me and influenced my later decision to start KampKonsult. Sometimes, the most casual chat with a fellow attendee creates ripple effects that shape your professional journey in unexpected ways.

From Expectations to Realities—and Surprises

Before attending, I hadn’t done much research on sessions, logistics, or even my own goals. Sent by my employer to connect with AppExchange teams and US-based colleagues, I imagined my days full of hands-on workshops. The reality? I’d get to a couple of formal content sessions a day, but in between, I kept serendipitously meeting people I’d only known online. They’d invite me to their own sessions—often as hosts or speakers—and suddenly I was being introduced to Salesforce “rock-stars” I’d only admired from afar.

The most unexpected moment: being approached by a well-known Salesforce MVP for a chat and a selfie! Dreamforce truly turns digital acquaintances and heroes into real-life colleagues.

The Data Quality Epiphany

The single most valuable thing I learned at Dreamforce—and something that still shapes my approach today—is the vital importance of data quality as a foundational element of an organization’s strategy. It’s hardly a new idea, but Dreamforce gave me the urgency and tools to advocate for it strongly with my customers. My whole approach to consulting changed, and I became a vocal champion for data quality long before AI and automation made it a buzzword.

Learning Like an Architect, Even If You Aren’t One

One of the most impactful sessions I attended was a Ladies Be Architects workshop, led by Gemma Blezard and her team. The lesson: no matter your Salesforce role, start “thinking like an architect.” I arrived confident in my technical chops, but left humbled and energized to learn much more—especially around integrations and security. That workshop motivated me to get involved with architect-level user groups and sparked speaking and blogging opportunities on data quality and architecture.

Dreamforce: The Catalyst for Community, Confidence, and Growth

Dreamforce fundamentally influenced my career direction. All those conversations—not just at sessions, but at social gatherings and parties—helped me find my niche and provided inspiration that would later motivate me to launch my own company. The connections I made, both at European events and at Dreamforce, became key collaborators and friends who helped me grow further through organizing community conferences and “Dreamin'” events.

The Community That Makes It All Possible

Without the Salesforce community, honestly, I’d still avoid networking and public speaking. Sessions like “Networking for Introverts,” hosted by the Trailblazer community, were lifelines, offering guidance, encouragement, and the push to participate. That, and familiar faces at places like the Community Cove, made my first trip to the USA feel less intimidating and showed me that community is the force multiplier behind every Salesforce career.

Maximizing Dreamforce: Tips for Networking, Learning, and Survival

Plan ahead! Two months before Dreamforce, I make a list of people, companies, and social events I want to target. Without goals, you’ll burn out or get lost.

Leave time between meetings: The event is massive, and walking (and waiting) happens between every session.

Don’t overload your agenda. Enjoy the days, talk to people, and let some magic happen organically.

**Prioritize networking sessions, social gatherings, and “True to the Core” for candid insights with Salesforce leadership.

Come early for community-led events—especially the Golden Gate Bridge walk for newcomers!

And above all: Wear comfortable shoes (bring a backup pair), travel light, keep a reusable water bottle handy, and don’t expect to get any “regular” work done while you’re at Dreamforce!

Transforming Business Through Shared Insights

The direct business impact of Dreamforce isn’t always obvious; it’s a blend of deepened relationships, endless new ideas, and exposure to the best-of-the-best in the ecosystem. Circles-of-Success sessions on data strategy and security, fueled real changes in how I consult and build solutions for clients. My exposure to AppExchange partners and architects directly led to new offerings, improved client delivery, and security-first auditing for projects.

Every Dreamforce Counts

Even if I can’t attend every year, Dreamforce is where I refresh, connect, and get inspired. Each experience accelerates my growth as a consultant, an entrepreneur, and a member of the global Salesforce family. If you take one thing from my story, it’s this: the best connections, insights, and ideas happen when you put yourself out there, get intentional about planning, and stay open to something new—especially in the moments between the headline sessions.

One last tip: let your teams, customers, and colleagues know before the event that you’re “off the grid”—treat Dreamforce as an immersive learning retreat, and soak it all in.

Andre van Kampen is the founder of KampKonsult—a Salesforce implementation specialist and data quality champion serving industries from manufacturing to healthcare. Connect with him on LinkedIn to swap stories, tips, or lay the groundwork for your own Dreamforce adventure.