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Build a shortlist of local businesses in a spreadsheet
Use Google Maps and your AI assistant to build a tidy spreadsheet of local suppliers, venues or tradespeople, with ratings, websites and notes.
When to use it
When you need to find and compare local options
Step by step
Search Google Maps
Search for what you need near you, for example 'commercial cleaners near Bristol'. Open the 10 to 15 most relevant results.
Copy the basics
For each one, copy the name, rating, number of reviews, website and phone number from the listing into a note. Screenshots of the listings also work.
Ask AI to tidy it into a table
Paste your notes or attach the screenshots with this prompt.
Prompt to copyTurn the notes below into a table with these columns: Business name, Area, Google rating, Number of reviews, Website, Phone, Services mentioned, Notes. Use only the information I've given you and leave a cell blank if it's missing; do not guess phone numbers or websites. Then add a 'Shortlist?' column with Yes for the best [5] for [my need, e.g. weekly office cleaning, 2,000 sq ft], and explain your choices underneath. [paste notes]Paste into Google Sheets
Copy the table into a new Google Sheet. Check each phone number and website against the Maps listing before you call.
Add your own notes as you call
Add columns for 'Quote', 'Availability' and 'Gut feel' and fill them in as you speak to each business.
What you get
Shortlist: Sparkle Pro Cleaning (4.8, 212 reviews, offices and retail), BrightDesk Services (4.6, 89 reviews, out-of-hours), Clearwater Facilities (4.7, 140 reviews)... Excluded: Tidy Homes (domestic only).
Tips
- Only use business contact details listed publicly, and don't add individuals' personal numbers.