The AltaVista Angle: Contractor Sales & Marketing Strategies

AltaVista Strategic Partners

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.

Episodes

  1. 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.

    55 min
  2. 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.

    56 min
  3. 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.

    47 min
  4. 11/19/2025

    How Strong Company Culture Builds High-Performing Teams

    A strong team doesn’t happen by accident. It grows from a culture that pushes people to show up, stay accountable, and support each other. In this episode, Aaron and Ray sit down with guest Todd Mohr for a real conversation about what drives a healthy culture and how it impacts performance across an organization. Together, they talk through the daily habits that shape team behavior, the role leaders play in setting the tone, and why hiring people who fit your values is one of the most important decisions a business can make. They also cover how to recognize early signs of culture problems, how strong communication builds trust, and why accountability helps teams grow. Whether you lead a small office or oversee a larger operation, this episode gives clear and practical insight into building a workplace where people want to contribute and feel connected to the mission. 🎧 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.

    50 min
  5. 10/13/2025

    Back to Basics: Sales & CRM Discipline for Contractors

    Are you losing deals before you ever get a chance to bid? In this episode of The AltaVista Angle, the partners at AltaVista Strategic Partners share why “back to basics” sales fundamentals matter now more than ever. You’ll hear: Why intake calls and follow-up set the tone for every opportunityHow CRM discipline impacts closing ratiosReal stories of missed opportunities from poor lead handlingA $600 service call that grew into $30,000+ in projectsWhat contractors can do today to sharpen fundamentals and build stronger pipelines Whether you own a contracting business, lead a sales team, or work in marketing, this episode will help you sharpen your fundamentals, rethink how you handle every opportunity, and see how sales and marketing work together to drive real growth. If you want to level up your contractor business, strengthen your sales process, or just get a pulse on what’s happening in the industry, this episode is a must-watch. Don’t forget to like and subscribe so you never miss an update 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.

    1h 7m
  6. 09/08/2025

    AI for Contractors: From Automation to SEO

    Whether you want to speed up proposal follow-ups, improve your sales process, or understand how AI changes SEO for contractors, this episode of The AltaVista Angle shares practical ways to put AI to work in your contracting business right now. Host Aaron Hockel is joined by Managing Partner Ray McLaughlin, Partners Brian Nichols and Bryan Dunkel, and COO Kendall Mason. Together, they explain where AI adds real value for contractors, how to start small, and what to measure so you see results. You’ll learn: Practical ways contractors can use AI for sales follow-ups, operations, and process automationHow to start small with AI and integrate tools for real impactRed flags to watch for with AI tools and why contractors should be cautious of false claimsWhy you need accurate records and processes before implementing automationHow AI is reshaping SEO, including AI Overviews and the growing weight of reviews and brand coverage Whether you lead sales, run operations, or manage marketing at a contracting company, this episode gives you clear steps to cut manual work, tighten your process, and turn AI into real pipeline growth. 🎧 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.

    52 min
  7. 08/19/2025

    Private Equity for Contractors: What to Know Before You Partner

    Whether you’re actively exploring a sale, considering a private equity partner, or just want to understand how private equity impacts contracting businesses, this episode of The AltaVista Angle gives you an insider’s view into how it really works — and what to know before making a move. Host Aaron Hockel and AltaVista Managing Partner Ray McLaughlin sit down with Andrew Sachs, Founding Partner at Mauloa, who brings over 30 years of private equity experience. Andrew shares how his approach differs from traditional PE, why company culture is the most important driver of long-term success, and what owners should consider before making a move. You’ll learn: How Mauloa’s minority investment model keeps owners in controlThe difference between cash flow and EBITDA (and why it matters)The current state of the private equity market in 2025Why culture can make or break a dealWhat to have in place before you explore a sale or partnershipHow to decide if PE is the right move for your contracting businessWhether you’re years away from selling, thinking about taking some chips off the table, or just curious about how private equity works in the contracting space, this episode offers candid, practical advice to help you make the best decision for your business.  🎧 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.

    59 min
  8. 07/17/2025

    Closing More Deals in 2025: Contractor Sales Strategies That Work

    The economy might be slowing down, but the most successful contractors are still winning — and this episode breaks down exactly how. Host Aaron Hockel and the AltaVista leadership team unpack how sales best practices, strategic marketing, and consistent execution are helping contractors stay competitive and close deals in 2025. You'll hear real client stories, industry insights, and proven methods that are working right now. Key takeaways from this episode include: Why consistency and hustle are non-negotiable in today’s sales processHow to close high-value deals with long sales cyclesSales best practices that actually move the needle for contractorsHow one client landed a $1M commercial job through Google AdsWhy reviews and SEO matter more than ever in the AI-driven search landscapeWays to outwork and out-position your competition using simple tools Whether you're an owner, sales manager, or marketer in the contracting or service industry, this episode offers actionable advice to boost your sales pipeline and make your marketing dollars work harder. 🎧 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.

    51 min
  9. 06/27/2025

    The State of the Contractor Economy — and What To Do About It

    Welcome to the first episode of The AltaVista Angle, a podcast designed for contractors to learn what is new in the industry, trends, best practices, and what you need to do to maintain your business and its relevance today and in the future. In this kickoff episode, host Aaron Hockel is joined by AltaVista’s partners Brian Nichols, Bryan Dunkel, and Managing Partner Ray McLaughlin, to talk about why we launched this podcast, what we do at AltaVista, and what’s really on contractors’ minds right now - the state of the contractor economy. We’re cutting through the noise and giving you a high-level look at how 2025 is shaping up across the contractor economy, from slower bid cycles and tighter margins to rising lead costs and mounting competition. If you’re wondering whether to grow or hunker down, this episode will help you understand where things stand and what smart contractors are doing to stay ahead. We’ll cover: Who we are and how AltaVista helps contractors growWhy we created The AltaVista Angle and what you can expect from future episodesWhat we're hearing from contractors across commercial, industrial, and residential sectorsHow shifts in the economy are impacting sales pipelines and decision-makingWhat high-performing companies are doing to stay ahead in uncertain timesPractical advice for navigating growth, hiring, and budgeting right now Whether you’re leading a small team or running a national operation, this episode gives you a clear, honest look at the current market and what to do about it. 🎧 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.

    50 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

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.