The AltaVista Angle: Contractor Sales & Marketing Strategies

AltaVista Strategic Partners
  • 5.0 (9)
  • Marketing
  • Updated Monthly

Struggling to keep your pipeline full? Losing jobs to competitors even when your work is better? Tired of relying on word of mouth and hoping the phone rings?The AltaVista Angle is built for contractors who want a more reliable way to grow.Hosted by a team that works with over 600 contractors across the country, this podcast brings a real-world view of what is working right now in contractor marketing, sales, and business operations. You’re not getting theory. You’re getting insight based on what contractors are actually seeing every day.Each episode breaks down sales and marketing strategies that help contractors generate new opportunities, win more bids, and build a stronger, more scalable business. You’ll learn what works in contractor marketing today, from digital outreach to improving your close rate and pricing jobs with confidence. This podcast covers contractor marketing, sales strategies, improving your internal processes, and using technology to grow a more efficient and competitive business. Whether you run a roofing company, paving business, HVAC company, or another trade service, you’ll get clear direction you can apply to your business.If you want more jobs, better clients, and stronger revenue, this show will show you how to get there.

  1. 4d ago

    How Contractors Can Hire and Develop Top Salespeople

    What separates an average salesperson from a top performer? In this episode of The AltaVista Angle, the team discusses how to identify, hire, develop, and retain salespeople who are disciplined, competitive, and ready to work. Aaron Hockel, Ray McLaughlin, and Bryan Dunkel are joined by AltaVista Sales Manager Jake McLaughlin. Jake explains his approach to cold calling and how consistent effort helped him reach his year-end sales goal by April. The conversation addresses a common hiring question for contractors: Should you hire a salesperson with years of industry experience, or should you hire someone with the right work habits and teach them your sales process? The group also discusses interview questions that reveal a candidate’s habits, the role company culture plays in employee development, and why compensation and growth opportunities matter when retaining top salespeople. In this episode: • What hiring managers should look for in a sales candidate • Why discipline matters more than short-term motivation • Interview questions that reveal drive and work habits • Why industry experience is not always required • The value of hiring competitive people • How company culture can develop stronger employees • Ways to retain high-performing salespeople 🎧 Thanks for listening to The AltaVista Angle, a podcast featuring industry insights, business trends, and practical strategies for contractors and service-based businesses. 🔗 Connect with AltaVista Strategic Partners: Website: https://www.altavistasp.com 📩 Have questions or want to discuss how marketing can support your business goals? Email [info@altavistasp.com](mailto:info@altavistasp.com) or request a free consultation through our website. 👍 Subscribe, like, and share the episode to help more contractors find the show. 🎧 Thanks for listening to The AltaVista Angle Your go-to source for industry insights, trends, and strategies built for contractors and service-based businesses. 🔗 Connect with us: Website: www.altavistasp.com LinkedIn: AltaVista Strategic Partners 📩 Have questions or want to explore how digital marketing can work for your business?  Reach out at info@altavistasp.com or request a free consultation on our site. 👍 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the show — it helps more business owners like you discover the tools they need to grow.

  2. Jul 16

    Winning Jobs Isn't Enough: How Contractors Build Lasting Customer Relationships

    Winning one job is one thing. Owning the customer relationship is how you build a great business. In this episode of The AltaVista Angle, Aaron Hockel, Ray McLaughlin, and Bryan Dunkel discuss what it takes to move beyond winning bids and build long-term customer relationships that create lasting value for your business. The conversation covers every stage of the customer lifecycle, from winning the first opportunity and delivering an exceptional first job to expanding relationships, handling obstacles, navigating turnover, and protecting your accounts from competitors. Ray also shares real-world stories from building a commercial contracting business with more than 900 customers and explains why relationship ownership is one of the biggest competitive advantages a contractor can have. In this episode: Economic update and commercial market outlookWhy winning the first job is criticalTurning small projects into long-term customersBuilding trust through communication and follow-upExpanding relationships within customer organizationsProtecting accounts from competitors and turnoverLessons learned from decades of commercial sales experience🎧 Thanks for listening to The AltaVista Angle Your go-to source for industry insights, trends, and strategies built for contractors and service-based businesses. 🔗 Connect with us: Website: www.altavistasp.com LinkedIn: AltaVista Strategic Partners 📩 Have questions or want to explore how digital marketing can work for your business?  Reach out at info@altavistasp.com or request a free consultation on our site. 👍 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the show — it helps more business owners like you discover the tools they need to grow.

  3. Jun 15

    The Marketing Technology Explosion: What Actually Works?

    New marketing tools are launching faster than ever. AI-powered lead generation platforms, buyer intent software, CRM automations, sales agents, data providers, and countless other technologies all promise the same thing: more leads, more sales, and faster growth. But which tools actually deliver results? In this episode of The AltaVista Angle, Aaron Hockel, Ray McLaughlin, Bryan Dunkel, and Brian Nichols discuss the rapid growth of marketing technology and share their perspective on how contractors should evaluate new software, data platforms, and AI-powered solutions. Topics include: The rise of AI-powered marketing and sales toolsWhy data quality matters more than data quantityCommon misconceptions about buyer intent dataThe challenges facing many lead generation platformsHow CRM providers are evolvingPractical ways businesses are using automation and AI todayWhy people, processes, and execution still matter If you're evaluating marketing software, AI tools, CRM platforms, or sales technology, this episode provides a practical look at what's working, what's overhyped, and what businesses should be paying attention to moving forward. 🎧 Thanks for listening to The AltaVista Angle Your go-to source for industry insights, trends, and strategies built for contractors and service-based businesses. 🔗 Connect with us: Website: www.altavistasp.com LinkedIn: AltaVista Strategic Partners 📩 Have questions or want to explore how digital marketing can work for your business?  Reach out at info@altavistasp.com or request a free consultation on our site. 👍 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the show — it helps more business owners like you discover the tools they need to grow.

  4. May 20

    Building a Contracting Business Through Every Growth Stage

    In this episode of The AltaVista Angle, Aaron Hockel, Ray McLaughlin, and Bryan Dunkel break down the real challenges contractors face when building and growing a business through different stages of growth. From startup struggles to scaling a mature company, the conversation covers what separates contractors that continue growing from those that get stuck. The team also discusses today’s economic climate, how interest rates and market conditions are impacting contractors, and why process, cash flow, and leadership matter more as businesses scale. They discuss how strong systems and recurring revenue create stability, why many contractors stall around the $1 million mark, and what it takes to continue growing through uncertain market cycles. You’ll also hear practical insights on: • Why systems and process matter more than most contractors realize • The biggest mistakes business owners make during growth phases • How cash flow impacts your ability to scale • The difference between working in the business vs. on the business • Why customer diversification and service work create long-term stability • How to identify when it’s time to invest in growth or preserve capital • The role leadership and hiring play in building a scalable company Whether you're launching a new contracting business or leading a larger operation through the next stage of growth, this episode shares practical lessons and real-world experiences from entrepreneurs who have built and scaled businesses firsthand. Tune in to learn what it really takes to grow a contracting business through every stage. 🎧 Thanks for listening to The AltaVista Angle Your go-to source for industry insights, trends, and strategies built for contractors and service-based businesses. 🔗 Connect with us: Website: www.altavistasp.com LinkedIn: AltaVista Strategic Partners 📩 Have questions or want to explore how digital marketing can work for your business?  Reach out at info@altavistasp.com or request a free consultation on our site. 👍 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the show — it helps more business owners like you discover the tools they need to grow.

  5. Apr 28

    Why Some Contractors Are Thriving (And Others Aren’t) | Construction Industry Insights

    In this episode of The AltaVista Angle, the team sits down with Mike Henderson, President & CEO of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Greater Baltimore, to break down what’s really happening across the construction industry today. From shifting market conditions to workforce challenges, this conversation covers what contractors are facing right now, and what separates companies that are growing from those that are struggling. They discuss how diversification and service work are helping contractors stay steady, why relationships still drive major project opportunities, and how technology like AI is starting to change estimating, scheduling, and operations.  You’ll also hear practical insights on: Why taking the wrong job can set a company backWhat it takes to build long-term relationships with general contractorsHow contractors can stand out beyond just priceThe role industry groups play in training, networking, and staying competitive Whether you’re a small trade contractor or running a large operation, this episode offers a clear look at what’s working right now, and where the industry is headed. 🎧 Thanks for listening to The AltaVista Angle Your go-to source for industry insights, trends, and strategies built for contractors and service-based businesses. 🔗 Connect with us: Website: www.altavistasp.com LinkedIn: AltaVista Strategic Partners 📩 Have questions or want to explore how digital marketing can work for your business?  Reach out at info@altavistasp.com or request a free consultation on our site. 👍 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the show — it helps more business owners like you discover the tools they need to grow.

  6. Apr 1

    Contractor Marketing Mistakes That Slow Your Growth

    Are your marketing mistakes slowing down your growth? In this episode of The AltaVista Angle, Aaron Hockel, Ray McLaughlin, and Bryan Dunkel break down the most common contractor marketing mistakes and how they directly impact your ability to win work in today’s market. From missed opportunities to inconsistent strategy, they cover what separates growing companies from those falling behind. You'll discover: How poor follow-up and lack of process hurt closing ratesThe role of CRM systems in building long-term growthWhy your website still makes or breaks first impressionsHow AI and search are influencing who gets selectedThe importance of reviews, even for commercial contractorsWhy inconsistent marketing leads to stalled momentumThe risks of relying on one customer or lead source Whether you're trying to grow, stabilize, or take more market share, this episode shares practical insights you can apply right away. Tune in to learn how to avoid these common pitfalls and position your business to win more work. Don’t forget to like and subscribe to stay updated with the latest from The AltaVista Angle! 🎧 Thanks for listening to The AltaVista Angle Your go-to source for industry insights, trends, and strategies built for contractors and service-based businesses. 🔗 Connect with us: Website: www.altavistasp.com LinkedIn: AltaVista Strategic Partners 📩 Have questions or want to explore how digital marketing can work for your business?  Reach out at info@altavistasp.com or request a free consultation on our site. 👍 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the show — it helps more business owners like you discover the tools they need to grow.

  7. Mar 16

    Cold Calling Still Works: The Mindset & Strategies That Build Real Business

    Many companies overlook the power of cold calling in today’s digital world, but the truth is, it remains one of the most effective lead generation strategies. In this episode, AltaVista sales veterans Aaron Hockel, Ray McLaughlin, and Bryan Dunkel sit down with sales manager Ben Hollingsworth to discuss why cold calling continues to be one of the most effective lead generation strategies for B2B sales. The team shares real experiences from years in the field and explains how preparation, mindset, and consistent outreach can turn cold calls into real business opportunities. If you're a sales professional, business owner, or anyone responsible for generating leads, this episode breaks down practical strategies you can start using right away. In this episode we cover: How top sales reps turn rejection into useful feedbackWays to increase connection rates when calling prospectsWhy the human element still matters in modern salesSales frameworks like micro-commitments and personalized questionsReal examples of cold calls turning into long-term business relationshipsHow research and preparation improve call performanceWhy daily routines and consistent activity drive long-term sales successCold calling remains one of the fastest ways to create new opportunities, start conversations with decision makers, and build a reliable sales pipeline. If you're working in B2B sales, lead generation, outbound sales, or business development, this episode shares practical insights that can help improve your results. 🎧 Thanks for listening to The AltaVista Angle Your go-to source for industry insights, trends, and strategies built for contractors and service-based businesses. 🔗 Connect with us: Website: www.altavistasp.com LinkedIn: AltaVista Strategic Partners 📩 Have questions or want to explore how digital marketing can work for your business?  Reach out at info@altavistasp.com or request a free consultation on our site. 👍 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the show — it helps more business owners like you discover the tools they need to grow.

  8. Jan 22

    Navigating AI-Driven Search: Winning Strategies for Contractors

    Is AI finding your business?  In this episode of The AltaVista Angle, host Aaron Hockel and Managing Partner Ray McLaughlin dive into the transformative impact of AI-driven search on SEO, specifically for contractors. Joined by SEO expert Kent VanderWoude, they explore how AI is reshaping traditional search methods and the pivotal role your website plays in this new landscape. You'll discover: How AI platforms like ChatGPT are changing the SEO gameThe decline in click-through rates and what it means for your strategy Why clear, direct content is more important than ever The critical role of online reviews in boosting visibility How a well-structured website can enhance your online presence and credibilityWhether you're a contractor looking to enhance your online presence or a business leader eager to stay ahead of the curve, this episode offers practical insights and strategies to navigate the evolving search landscape.  Tune in to learn how to position your brand for success in the AI era. Don't forget to like and subscribe to stay updated with the latest from The AltaVista Angle! 🎧 Thanks for listening to The AltaVista Angle Your go-to source for industry insights, trends, and strategies built for contractors and service-based businesses. 🔗 Connect with us: Website: www.altavistasp.com LinkedIn: AltaVista Strategic Partners 📩 Have questions or want to explore how digital marketing can work for your business?  Reach out at info@altavistasp.com or request a free consultation on our site. 👍 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the show — it helps more business owners like you discover the tools they need to grow.

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Struggling to keep your pipeline full? Losing jobs to competitors even when your work is better? Tired of relying on word of mouth and hoping the phone rings?The AltaVista Angle is built for contractors who want a more reliable way to grow.Hosted by a team that works with over 600 contractors across the country, this podcast brings a real-world view of what is working right now in contractor marketing, sales, and business operations. You’re not getting theory. You’re getting insight based on what contractors are actually seeing every day.Each episode breaks down sales and marketing strategies that help contractors generate new opportunities, win more bids, and build a stronger, more scalable business. You’ll learn what works in contractor marketing today, from digital outreach to improving your close rate and pricing jobs with confidence. This podcast covers contractor marketing, sales strategies, improving your internal processes, and using technology to grow a more efficient and competitive business. Whether you run a roofing company, paving business, HVAC company, or another trade service, you’ll get clear direction you can apply to your business.If you want more jobs, better clients, and stronger revenue, this show will show you how to get there.

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