Dominic Mercurio with Sales Factory

Overview

Sales Factory presented findings from its first annual State of the Pro survey on contractors’ work, challenges, and outlook.

Survey Findings

• The survey covered 1,168 professionals across eight trades. Respondents generally felt positive about job stability and took pride in their work, but cited difficulty finding reliable skilled labor.
• How can the industry address the skilled-labor shortage?

Tools and Training

• Contractors use AI mainly to save time on administrative work and research; they still need subject-matter experts to verify its outputs, especially for safety-critical decisions.
• Forty percent preferred AI-assisted search, and 94% regularly learn about new tools. Contractors also emphasized showing up humble and willing to learn, and investing in quality tools when affordable.

Outline

State of the Pro Survey

• Dominic described the first annual survey of more than 1,000 professionals across eight construction and industrial trades.
• The research examines contractors’ economic outlook, labor conditions, tools, and expectations for the future.

Workforce Conditions

• Contractors reported confidence in employment stability and pride in their work.
• Finding reliable skilled workers remains a significant challenge; participants emphasized the importance of investment in the trades.
• Advice for new workers included being punctual, humble, and open to learning from experienced crews.

AI and Tools

• AI can reduce administrative burdens and speed up information searches, but human expertise remains essential for validating accuracy and safety.
• Contractors continue learning about new tools, often relying on peers as a trusted source of information.
• Professionals advised investing in quality tools when possible, while noting that overspending can be a source of regret.

Research Resources

• The survey report is available through Sales Factory; Dominic also described the company’s quarterly State of the DIYer research.