In this episode of the Contractor Growth Network podcast, Sean Holleran and SEO expert Patrick dive into how AI is reshaping search—and what that means for contractors relying on SEO. They break down the shift from traditional keyword ranking to AI-powered answer engines like ChatGPT and Google’s AI Overview, and explain how to structure your content to still get found. Whether you’re wondering if Google is dead (it’s not) or how to optimize for tools like Perplexity and Bing, this episode will help you stay ahead of the curve.

AI Search Is Changing the Game
Google and ChatGPT are rewriting how people search:

• AI now scans for concise answers, not full-page rankings.
• Questions and paragraph snippets matter more than ever.
• It’s no longer just about clicks—being the answer is the goal.

Concise Answers Beat Long-Form Hooks
Content must lead with the answer:

• Gone are the days of slow storytelling intros.
• Start with the clear, factual response—then build context.
• This helps tools like Google AI and ChatGPT surface your content.

Google Isn’t Dead, It’s Adapting
Despite the hype, traditional SEO still matters:

• Google still dominates local and service-based searches.
• Schema, page speed, links, and on-page SEO are still relevant.
• Now it’s about blending classic SEO with AI-readiness.

Search Everywhere Optimization
It’s no longer about ranking on one platform:

• Get reviews on Bing, Angi, Houzz, and Facebook—not just Google.
• Claim and optimize your Bing Places listing.
• YouTube videos (with transcripts) are also being surfaced in AI answers.

AI Loves Structure and Fresh Data
Make your content AI-scannable:

• Use schema markup to define FAQs, videos, and pages.
• Replace large paragraphs with bullet points or tables.
• Update outdated blog posts for relevance and accuracy.

“If you’re not found everywhere, you’re not really found at all.”
“The best answer wins now—not the biggest website.”
“Google isn’t dead. It’s just changing the rules—and fast.”

• Rewrite for Answers: Lead with a concise answer before diving into storytelling.
• Use Schema Markup: Help AI interpret your FAQs, videos, and images.
• Diversify Reviews: Get client reviews across Google, Bing, Angi, and Houzz.
• Update Your Old Content: Refresh data, fix broken links, and add question-style headings.
• Test It Yourself: Search on ChatGPT, Google AI, and Perplexity as if you're a client.

Meta Description:
SEO is changing fast. Learn how AI tools like ChatGPT and Google SGE are shifting search—and how to adapt your content to keep showing up and driving leads.

Are you paying for SEO but not seeing results? Patrick, CGN’s in-house SEO specialist, joins us to expose the truth behind SEO strategies that don’t work—and how to tell if your current SEO investment is really paying off. We break down how to measure SEO performance the right way, what bad SEO looks like, and the key tools every contractor should have access to.

Key Takeaways:

- The 3 (actually 4) pillars of SEO: Technical, Content, Off-Page, and Local SEO
- What SEO ROI really means and how to calculate it
- How to set SEO goals that align with business growth
- Red flags that your SEO company is doing nothing
- Why page 2 on Google might as well be invisible
- The tools you must own: Google Analytics, Google Search Console, Google Business Profile
- Why thin content and doorway pages waste your money
- How to track keyword rankings and spot real improvement
- The danger of relying on impressions and clicks alone

Own your data. Know your rankings. And stop paying for SEO that doesn’t work.

Visit ContractorGrowthNetwork.com to get an audit or speak with an expert.

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In this episode,Logan Shinholser interviews Dr. Anna Hunter, Director of Learning & Development at JobTread, to unpack how human behavior directly impacts digital adoption in construction companies. Anna explains why technology is only as effective as its implementation, how to create true team buy-in, and how contractors can avoid wasting thousands on unused tools. The conversation dives into key behavioral strategies like building software champions, structuring healthy incentives, and identifying root problems before investing in tech. With practical analogies and tactical steps, this episode bridges the gap between strategy and psychology in software rollout.

Clarity Comes Before Software
Before adopting software, companies need to clearly define their core operational problems. Jumping into tech without this clarity often leads to frustration and failure.

The Champion Model Works
Successful tech rollouts often rely on "champions" — team members who believe in the software and lead by example. Identifying the right personality types for this role (not just the loudest volunteer) is crucial.

Start with the Team, Not the Tool
The most effective companies get their teams involved in diagnosing problems and shaping processes before software ever enters the picture. Top-down mandates often backfire.

Incentives Should Match the Culture
Incentivizing new habits (like filling out daily logs) can work, but it must be tied to accountability. Small, visible rewards can spark pride and momentum, especially when tied to public progress tracking.

Staged Rollout vs. All-In: Choose Wisely
Rolling out software can happen gradually or all at once, but both approaches require preparation, peer support, and leadership alignment.

Owner’s Role: Understand and Translate
Leaders don't need to be tech experts, but they do need to understand the software well enough to explain its value to their team — and to calm fears about being replaced.

“Software is only as good as how much you use it.”
“Jumping into tech without clarity just means you're scaling chaos.”
“You're not rushing adoption—you’re building belief.”

• Define the Real Problems First: Use tools like whiteboards or flowcharts to uncover root causes before selecting a solution.
• Nominate the Right Champion: Identify someone who is both tech-comfortable and respected by the team—not just the loudest person in the room.
• Use Live Incentives: Create transparent incentive systems that track progress publicly and build pride over time.
• Start Small or Go All-In — But Plan Either Way: Whether you're doing a phased rollout or flipping the switch company-wide, preparation is key to success.

Learn more about JobTread : https://www.jobtread.com/