Local Business Growth logo

Local Business Growth

Organization
cosmicstack-labs
local-business-growth

A mini marketing agency in skill form — 7 practical, actionable marketing skills designed for local business owners (shop owners, restaurants, service providers) who don't have a marketing team. Covers social media content, email/SMS campaigns, referral programs, Google Business Profile optimization, review management, competitor analysis, and local SEO.

Overview

Publishercosmicstack-labs
Repositorymercury-agent-skills
Skill namelocal-business-growth
Stars
485
Forks
63
Bundled files
Instructions only
LicenseMIT
Links
  • Markdown instructions

    A SKILL.md file the model loads on demand, so it only costs tokens when a request actually matches.

  • Works with any LLM

    AI skills are plain Markdown, not provider-specific code, so this works with GPT, Claude, Gemini, Grok, or a local model.

  • Self-contained

    Everything the model needs lives in the instructions — no extra files to sync.

  • Open source

    Published by cosmicstack-labs on GitHub. Read the source before you install it.

Installation

Install the Local Business Growth AI skill in TypingMind to use it with any LLM, or drop it into another agent that reads SKILL.md.

1

Install in TypingMind

TypingMind installs a skill straight from its GitHub folder — it reads SKILL.md, bundles the resource files, and stores the result locally.

  1. Open the app and go to Plugins → Skills.
  2. Choose "Install from GitHub".
  3. Paste the skill folder URL below and confirm.
    https://github.com/cosmicstack-labs/mercury-agent-skills/tree/main/categories/marketing/local-business-growth
  4. Enable the skill in any chat where you want it available.
Plugins → Skills → Add skill → From GitHub URL, then paste the folder URL and press Continue.
2

Install in another agent

Any agent that reads the Agent Skills format can use this skill — copy the folder into that agent's skills directory.

Claude Code — .claude/skills
git clone --depth 1 https://github.com/cosmicstack-labs/mercury-agent-skills.git /tmp/mercury-agent-skills
mkdir -p .claude/skills
cp -r /tmp/mercury-agent-skills/categories/marketing/local-business-growth .claude/skills/local-business-growth
Restart Claude Code after copying so it picks up the new skill.

Use it in TypingMind

Enable Local Business Growth in any TypingMind chat and the model takes it from there. Its name and description sit in the system prompt, and the moment a request matches, the model loads the full instructions itself — you never invoke it by hand, and it costs no tokens until it is actually used.

The model loads Local Business Growth on its own as soon as a request matches it.

Works with any AI model

AI skills are plain Markdown instructions rather than provider-specific code, so Local Business Growth is not tied to the model it was written for. Install it once in TypingMind and use it with GPT-5, Claude, Gemini, Grok, DeepSeek, Mistral, Llama, or a local model you run yourself — all on your own API keys.

  • Loaded only when it is needed

    The system prompt carries just the name and description. The instructions are fetched on the first matching request, so an idle skill costs nothing.

  • Switch models mid-chat

    Because the skill is instructions rather than code, changing model does not break it — the next model reads the same SKILL.md.

Skill instructions

This is the SKILL.md content the model loads. Read it before installing — a skill is instructions your model will follow.

Local Business Growth Skills

A mini marketing agency for local businesses. Each skill is designed to be usable by someone who's never run a marketing campaign before.


Table of Contents

  1. Social Reel Maker
  2. Campaign Writer
  3. Referral Builder
  4. GBP Optimizer
  5. Review Responder
  6. Competitor Scout
  7. Local SEO Keyfinder

1. Social Reel Maker

Quick Info

  • Skill Name: Social Reel Maker
  • Description: Generates ready-to-film video ideas for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts — tailored to a local business's type, location, and offerings. No video editing experience needed. Each idea comes with a simple script, suggested visuals, and the "hook" that stops the scroll.
  • Category: Social Media / Content Creation
  • Best For: Restaurants, cafes, retail shops, salons, service providers

Trigger Phrases

  • "Give me reel ideas for my [business type]"
  • "What should I post on TikTok today?"
  • "I need 5 video ideas for this week"
  • "Help me make a reel about [product/service]"
  • "What's trending for local businesses on Reels?"
  • "I'm not good at videos, give me something simple"

Key Instructions

Step 1: Identify the Business & Goal Ask (or infer from context):

  • What type of business? (restaurant, salon, boutique, plumber, dentist, etc.)
  • What's the goal? (more foot traffic, promote a product, build awareness, behind-the-scenes)
  • Any current promotion or seasonal angle?
  • Location (for local relevance)

Step 2: Pick the Right Reel Format Match format to business type and goal:

FormatBest ForExample
Behind-the-ScenesShowing authenticity"How we prep our kitchen every morning"
TransformationBefore/after resultsHaircut transformation, renovation reveal
Customer POVRelatability, social proof"POV: You walk into the best coffee shop in [city]"
Quick TipAuthority building"3 things to check before calling a plumber"
Trending AudioReach & viralityDance or trend with product showcase
Day in the LifeConnection with owner"A day serving [city] — from prep to close"
FAQ AnswerReducing friction"How long does a haircut really take?"
Offer/AnnouncementDirect response"This week only: 20% off your first visit"
UGC StyleAuthenticityReal customer enjoying your service
Local PrideCommunity connection"Why we love being in [neighborhood]"

Step 3: Generate the Reel Idea For each idea, provide:

  • Hook (first 3 seconds — the most important part)
  • Visual plan (what to film, camera angles)
  • Script (what to say, overlaid text)
  • Audio suggestion (trending sound or original)
  • Call to action (what the viewer should do next)

Step 4: Example Output

🎬 REEL IDEA #1: "The 7 AM Kitchen Prep"

Hook (text on screen): "What happens before you walk in?"
Visuals: Fast cuts of chopping veggies, coffee brewing, setting tables
Script: "Every morning at 6am, we start fresh. Hand-chopped. 
         Locally sourced. Made with love. [Business name] opens 
         at 8 — come taste the difference."
Audio: Upbeat trending sound or lo-fi beat
CTA: "Tag your brunch buddy 👇"
Hashtags: #localbusiness #[city]eats #behindthescenes

🎬 REEL IDEA #2: "The 15-Second Salad"

Hook: "This salad takes longer to order than to make ⏱️"
Visuals: Fast montage of assembling the most popular salad
Script: "Our [name of salad] — made in 90 seconds flat. 
         Perfect for your lunch break. Swing by [location]."
Audio: Fast-paced, snappy track
CTA: "Save this for your next lunch run"
Hashtags: #quicklunch #[city]foodie #healthyeating

Step 5: Batch Recommendations Always suggest 3-5 ideas in one go so the owner can batch-film them in a single session.


2. Campaign Writer

Quick Info

  • Skill Name: Campaign Writer
  • Description: Crafts ready-to-send email and SMS marketing campaigns for local businesses — promotional offers, newsletters, event announcements, and re-engagement messages. Handles tone, length constraints, and includes subject lines and call-to-actions.
  • Category: Marketing / Email & SMS
  • Best For: Promotions, weekly specials, holiday campaigns, re-engaging past customers

Trigger Phrases

  • "Write an email about our weekend special"
  • "I need an SMS blast for our sale"
  • "Create a newsletter for this month"
  • "Send a re-engagement offer to old customers"
  • "Write a holiday promotion"
  • "Craft a 'we miss you' message"

Key Instructions

Step 1: Gather Campaign Details Ask:

  • What's the offer or announcement? (discount, new item, event, etc.)
  • Who's the audience? (all customers, loyalty members, lapsed customers)
  • What channel? (email, SMS, or both)
  • Deadline/urgency? (limited time, while supplies last)
  • Brand voice? (friendly, professional, quirky, minimal)

Step 2: Pick the Campaign Type

TypePurposeChannel
Promotional OfferDrive sales with a discount or dealEmail + SMS
Weekly/Happy Hour SpecialRegular cadence, predictableSMS (short)
New Product/Service LaunchBuild excitementEmail (long)
Event/Workshop AnnouncementDrive attendanceEmail
Re-engagement ("We miss you")Win back lapsed customersSMS (strong)
Holiday/GreetingSeasonal connectionEmail
Thank You / LoyaltyRetention & appreciationEmail
Urgent / Flash SaleScarcity-drivenSMS only

Step 3: Write the Email Campaign Structure every email:

Subject Line: [Under 50 chars, creates curiosity or states value]
Preheader: [Extension of subject line, 80-100 chars]

Header / Hero Section:
  - One main message (e.g., "This Weekend Only: 20% Off")
  - Eye-catching, benefit-first

Body:
  - Short paragraphs (1-3 sentences max)
  - What's the offer? Why now? Why you?
  - Social proof if available ("Loved by 200+ locals!")
  
Call to Action:
  - One primary button (NOT multiple)
  - Clear action verb ("Order Now", "Book Your Spot", "Claim Offer")

Footer:
  - Business name, address, hours
  - Unsubscribe link
  - Social media links

Step 4: Write the SMS Version Keep under 160 characters for single SMS. Use urgency.

Template: [Offer] + [Deadline] + [Link/Coupon]
Example: "🍕 This weekend only: Buy one large pizza, get one FREE. 
Use code BOGO25 at checkout. Ends Sunday! Order: [link]"

Step 5: Example Output

📧 EMAIL CAMPAIGN: "Summer Sale — This Weekend Only"

Subject: Your summer treat is here ☀️
Preheader: 20% off everything this Saturday & Sunday

Hi [Name],

Summer just got sweeter.

This weekend (Sat-Sun only), enjoy 20% off your entire order 
at [Business Name]. Whether you're craving [signature item] 
or want to try something new — now's the time.

📅 This weekend only: August 17-18
📍 [Address]
🎉 Use code: SUMMER20

We can't wait to serve you.

[Button: CLAIM YOUR 20% OFF]

With love,
[Business Name]
[Address] | [Hours]
[Instagram Link]

---

📱 SMS VERSION:

☀️ HOT DEAL: 20% off everything at [Business Name] this 
weekend only! Use code SUMMER20. See you Sat-Sun! 
📍 [address] [link]

Step 6: Compliance Reminder Always include at the end:

  • For email: Unsubscribe link required
  • For SMS: "Reply STOP to opt out" message required
  • Note: "Verify you have consent before sending"

3. Referral Builder

Quick Info

  • Skill Name: Referral Builder
  • Description: Designs a complete customer referral program from scratch — reward structure, referral mechanics, tracking method, and promotion strategy. Tailored for local businesses with no complex tech setup.
  • Category: Growth / Customer Acquisition
  • Best For: Salons, dentists, auto shops, restaurants, boutique fitness studios, service businesses

Trigger Phrases

  • "How do I get my customers to refer friends?"
  • "Build a referral program for my business"
  • "I want a 'bring a friend' system"
  • "What reward should I offer for referrals?"
  • "How to track who sent who?"

Key Instructions

Step 1: Analyze the Business Model Ask:

  • Average transaction value? (determines reward size)
  • How often do customers return? (monthly, weekly, yearly)
  • What's your most profitable service/product?
  • Do you have a way to identify customers? (phone number, email, loyalty app)
  • Current customer count?

Step 2: Choose a Referral Structure

StructureHow It WorksBest For
Double-Sided RewardBoth referrer & friend get somethingRestaurants, retail
Single-Sided RewardOnly referrer gets rewardedHigh-ticket services (dentist, auto repair)
Friend-Only RewardOnly the new customer gets a discountFirst-time buyer incentive
Tiered RewardsRewards increase with more referralsHigh-repeat businesses (salons, cafes)
Points SystemAccumulate points per referral, redeem laterSubscription/regular visit models

Step 3: Design the Reward Rule of thumb: Reward should be 10-20% of average order value.

Business TypeSuggested Reward (Referrer)Suggested Reward (Friend)
Restaurant/CafeFree appetizer or drink15% off first meal
Hair Salon20% off next visit20% off first visit
Auto ShopFree car wash with next service$25 off first repair
Dental OfficeFree teeth whitening kitFree exam & X-rays
Boutique/Gift Shop$10 store credit15% off first purchase
Yoga/Fitness Studio1 free class pass1 week free trial
Pet Groomer$10 off next groom$10 off first groom

Step 4: Create the Tracking System For businesses without fancy software:

Low-Tech Options (pick one):
1. Unique referral code per customer (e.g., "REF-JOHN5")
   → Customer shares code, friend mentions it at checkout
   
2. Physical referral cards (print 500, give 5 per customer)
   → Each card has a unique code, friend brings it in

3. "Mention [customer name]" — simple verbal system
   → Friend says "Sarah sent me" at checkout

4. Google Form + QR code at register
   → Customer scans, fills friend's email, you send the offer

5. Free tools: ReferralCandy, Viral Loops, Yotpo (for online)
   → Or simple: a Google Sheet + honor system

Step 5: Launch & Promote

Week 1: Train staff to ask every customer
  - "Love us? Bring a friend and you both save."

In-Store signage:
  - Counter tent card: "Share the love — refer a friend, 
    get [reward]. Ask us how!"
  - Receipt footer: "Refer a friend → you both win"
  - Bag stuffer card with referral details

Social Media Announcement:
  1 post announcing the program
  1 post highlighting a customer who earned the reward
  1 Story with "Tag a friend you'd bring" 

Check-in ask:
  "How did you hear about us?" → If "a friend", log the referrer

Step 6: Measure & Optimize Track monthly:

  • Number of referrals generated
  • Conversion rate of referred friends
  • Average value of referred customers vs. organic
  • Cost per acquisition via referrals
  • Most effective reward tier

4. GBP Optimizer

Quick Info

  • Skill Name: GBP Optimizer
  • Description: Analyzes and optimizes a Google Business Profile to rank higher in local search and Google Maps. Checks completeness, categories, posts, reviews, photos, and local relevance signals. Provides a prioritized fix list.
  • Category: Marketing / Local SEO
  • Best For: Any business with a physical location or service area

Trigger Phrases

  • "Optimize my Google Business Profile"
  • "Help me rank on Google Maps"
  • "Why isn't my business showing up in local search?"
  • "Check my GBP for issues"
  • "I want more customers from Google Maps"
  • "What's wrong with my Google listing?"

Key Instructions

Step 1: Audit Current Profile Completeness Check every field — Google rewards 100% complete profiles.

Completion Checklist:

□ Business name (exact real name — no keywords stuffed in)
□ Category (primary + secondary categories selected)
□ Address (exact, consistent with website and citations)
□ Service area (if no storefront, define radius)
□ Phone number (local, not toll-free)
□ Website URL
□ Business hours (including holiday hours)
□ Description (750 chars max — use keywords naturally)
□ Attributes (women-led, outdoor seating, free wifi, etc.)
□ Products/Services section (add top 5-10)
□ Photos (minimum 10-15 high-quality images)
□ Posts (minimum 1 per week)
□ Q&A section (populate with FAQs)
□ Reviews (respond to every single one)

Step 2: Optimize Categories Primary category is the MOST important ranking factor.

How to choose:
1. Go to Google's category list
2. Pick the most specific category that fits
   - ❌ "Restaurant" (too broad)
   - ✅ "Italian Restaurant" (specific)
   - ❌ "Hair Salon" (generic)
   - ✅ "Hair Extension Salon" (more specific)

3. Add secondary categories
   - Add 3-5 relevant secondary categories
   - Restaurant example: "Pizza Restaurant", "Takeout", "Delivery"

Step 3: Optimize Business Description Formula for the 750-character description:

Paragraph 1 (Who you are): 
  "For over [X] years, [Business Name] has been [city]'s go-to 
  for [service]. We specialize in [specific offering], serving 
  [neighborhood/community] with [what makes you different]."

Paragraph 2 (What you offer):
  "From [signature product] to [another offering], we do it all. 
  Our team brings [years] of experience in [field]."

Paragraph 3 (Call to action):
  "Visit us at [address]. Open [hours]. Call [phone] to book 
  or stop by — we'd love to serve you."
  
Keywords to naturally include:
  - City name and neighborhood
  - Service keywords (e.g., "organic haircolor", "wood-fired pizza")
  - "Best [service] in [city]" (once, naturally)

Step 4: Audit NAP Consistency NAP = Name, Address, Phone. This MUST be identical everywhere.

Check these sources for NAP consistency:
□ Google Business Profile
□ Website (footer and contact page)
□ Yelp
□ Facebook Page
□ Apple Maps
□ Bing Places
□ YellowPages
□ Nextdoor
□ Industry directories (ZocDoc for doctors, TripAdvisor for restaurants)
□ Chamber of Commerce site
□ Local blog mentions

Common NAP errors:
- "Street" vs "St" (pick one, use everywhere)
- "Suite 100" vs "Ste 100"
- Area code with/without parentheses
- (555) 555-1234 vs +1 555-555-1234

Step 5: Photo Strategy Google profiles with photos get 42% more requests for directions.

Required photos:
□ 3-5 exterior shots (storefront from different angles)
□ 5-10 interior shots (atmosphere, seating)
□ 5+ product shots (food, services being performed)
□ 3-5 team photos (staff, owner, action shots)
□ 2-3 "in action" shots (customer enjoying service)

Photo best practices:
- High resolution (minimum 720px wide)
- No stock photos — real images only
- Add geotags to photos
- Upload new photos weekly
- Encourage customer photo uploads

Step 6: Posting Strategy Posts show in search results and Maps. Post at least weekly.

Post Types & Cadence:

Monday: What's New (product, service, menu update)
Wednesday: Offer/Promotion (limited-time deal)
Friday: Event or Community Involvement

Post content formula:
- Image/video (720x720 minimum)
- Short, punchy text (150-200 chars)
- Clear CTA ("Call Now", "Get Offer", "Learn More")
- UTM tracking link if possible

Example Post:
"🔥 New on our menu: [Item Name]! Handmade, locally sourced, 
and absolutely delicious. Come try it this weekend. 
📍 [Address] [CTA: Order Now → link]"

Step 7: Q&A Optimization Seed 5-10 common questions and answer them yourself.

Sample Q&A for a restaurant:
Q: "Do you have vegetarian options?"
A: "Yes! We have 8 vegetarian dishes including our famous [dish]. 
   Ask your server for recommendations."

Q: "Do you take reservations?"
A: "We accept reservations for parties of 5+ via our website 
   or phone. Walk-ins are always welcome!"

Q: "What's the best time to avoid the crowd?"
A: "Weekday afternoons (2-4pm) are our quietest. Weekend 
   mornings before 10am are also great!"

Q: "Is there parking available?"
A: "Free street parking on [street names]. We also have a 
   small lot behind the building with 10 spaces."

Step 8: Prioritized Fix List Output as a ranked action list:

🔴 HIGH PRIORITY (Do this week):
1. [Fix] Add secondary categories
2. [Fix] Respond to 12 unanswered reviews
3. [Add] 5 photos of interior
4. [Add] Complete business description

🟡 MEDIUM PRIORITY (Do this month):
5. [Fix] NAP inconsistency on Yelp
6. [Add] Weekly posts for next 4 weeks
7. [Seed] 5 Q&A entries
8. [Add] Products/Services section

🟢 LOW PRIORITY (Do this quarter):
9. [Add] 3 more exterior photos
10. [Add] Holiday hours
11. [Collect] 10 more Google reviews

5. Review Responder

Quick Info

  • Skill Name: Review Responder
  • Description: Drafts professional, brand-aligned responses to customer reviews — both positive and negative. Turns happy customers into loyal advocates and defuses negative experiences with empathy and solutions. Tracks sentiment patterns.
  • Category: Marketing / Reputation Management
  • Best For: Any business collecting Google, Yelp, or Facebook reviews

Trigger Phrases

  • "Help me respond to this review"
  • "How do I reply to a bad review?"
  • "Write a thank you response for a 5-star review"
  • "Draft a response to this 1-star review"
  • "I need a template for responding to reviews"
  • "How do I handle a complaint review?"

Key Instructions

Step 1: Analyze the Review Classify before responding:

TypeSentimentGoal
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ PositiveHappy customerReinforce loyalty, encourage return
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Positive with noteMostly happy, small critiqueAddress the note, thank them
⭐⭐⭐ NeutralMixed experienceAcknowledge, improve, invite back
⭐⭐ NegativeUnhappy customerEmpathize, make it right, take offline
⭐⭐⭐⭐ No textJust starsSimple warm thank you

Step 2: Follow the Response Framework

For Positive Reviews (4-5 stars):

Framework: Thank + Personalize + Invite Back

"Hi [Name], thank you so much for the kind words! We're 
thrilled you enjoyed [specific thing they mentioned]. 
Can't wait to serve you again soon. Next time, ask about 
[new item/service] — we think you'll love it! 🙌

– [Owner/Manager Name], [Business Name]"

Rules:

  • Respond within 24-48 hours
  • Mention something specific from their review
  • Keep it warm, not robotic
  • Never copy-paste the same response
  • Invite them back with a reason

For Negative Reviews (1-3 stars):

Framework: Empathize + Apologize + Explain + Resolve + Move Offline

"Hi [Name], thank you for sharing your experience. We're 
truly sorry that [specific issue] didn't meet your expectations.
That's not the standard we aim for.

We'd love the chance to make this right. Please reach out 
to us directly at [email/phone] so we can [specific resolution].

We appreciate your feedback — it helps us improve every day.

– [Owner/Manager Name], [Business Name]"

Rules:

  • NEVER get defensive or argue
  • NEVER blame the customer
  • Acknowledge the specific problem
  • Take the conversation offline for resolution
  • Show you've taken action if applicable

Step 3: Example Responses by Scenario

⭐ 5-STAR: "Best pizza in town! The crust was perfect."

Response:
"Thanks, [Name]! That means the world to us. Our dough 
is made fresh daily — glad you could taste the difference. 
Next time, try the Truffle Mushroom — it's a fan favorite! 🍕"

⭐ 3-STAR: "Food was okay but service was slow."

Response:
"Hi [Name], thanks for the honest feedback. We're sorry 
the service didn't match our usual pace — Saturday nights 
can get busy. We've talked with our team about table 
turnaround. We'd love to have you back for a faster 
experience. Reach us at [email] and we'll set you up!"

⭐ 1-STAR: "Found a hair in my food. Disgusting."

Response:
"[Name], I'm genuinely horrified and deeply sorry. This 
is completely unacceptable. Our kitchen team has been 
re-trained on our protocols. Please email us at [email] 
so we can personally make this right for you. We take 
this extremely seriously."

⭐ 4-STAR: "Great haircut! Just wish the wait was shorter."

Response:
"Thanks, [Name]! So glad you loved the cut. You're right 
about the wait — we've actually started taking online 
bookings to fix that. Book ahead next time and you'll be 
in the chair in 5 minutes. See you soon! ✂️"

Step 4: Track Sentiment Over Time Maintain a simple log:

Date | Platform | Rating | Category | Issue (if negative) | Responded?
-----|----------|--------|----------|--------------------|-----------
Jan 5 | Google | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Service | Wait time | ✅
Jan 6 | Yelp | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Food | - | ✅
Jan 7 | Google | ⭐⭐ | Cleanliness | Bathroom | ✅

Monthly Report:
- Total reviews: 45
- Average rating: 4.2
- Positive: 38 | Neutral: 4 | Negative: 3
- Top complaint: Wait time (5 mentions)
- Top praise: Food quality (12 mentions)

Step 5: Proactive Review Generation Strategy

Ask for reviews at the right moment:

🟢 Best times to ask:
- Right after a compliment ("I love this place!")
- After successful service completion
- When customer says "see you next time"
- After resolving a complaint successfully

🔴 Worst times to ask:
- During a rush or busy period
- When there's an unresolved issue
- Right after payment (feels transactional)

How to ask:
In-person: "If you had a great experience, we'd love a 
Google review! Here's a QR code — takes 30 seconds."

Email/SMS follow-up: "Thanks for visiting [Business Name]! 
If you enjoyed your experience, consider leaving us a 
review. It helps small businesses like ours so much. 
[Link to review]"

QR Code: Place at register and on receipts

6. Competitor Scout

Quick Info

  • Skill Name: Competitor Scout
  • Description: Analyzes a local business's competitors across social media, Google reviews, website, and local presence. Produces actionable insights — what they're doing well, where they're weak, and what opportunities exist to outperform them.
  • Category: Growth / Competitive Intelligence
  • Best For: Any local business wanting to understand and outperform local competition

Trigger Phrases

  • "Analyze my competitors"
  • "What are other [business type] doing better than me?"
  • "Spy on my competition"
  • "How do I stand out from competitors?"
  • "What's my competitor posting on Instagram?"
  • "Tell me what my competitors are doing"

Key Instructions

Step 1: Identify Competitors Ask the business owner:

Primary Competitors (direct — same service, same area):
1. [Name] — [Location/Area]
2. [Name] — [Location/Area]
3. [Name] — [Location/Area]

Secondary Competitors (different but could substitute):
4. [Name] — [Different angle, same customer need]
5. [Name] — [Nearby area, might draw same customers]

Step 2: Analyze Each Competitor Across 5 Dimensions

A. Google Business Profile

For each competitor, check:
□ Overall rating (average stars)
□ Number of reviews
□ Profile completeness (photos, description, services)
□ Post frequency
□ Response rate to reviews
□ Top keywords in their reviews (what customers praise)

B. Social Media Presence

Platform-by-platform analysis:

Instagram/Facebook:
- Follower count
- Post frequency
- Average likes/comments per post
- Content themes (food, team, promos, behind-the-scenes)
- Most engaging post types
- Use of Reels vs static posts
- Bio and link optimization

TikTok:
- Follower count
- Video style (trendy, educational, funny)
- Most viewed videos
- Posting frequency

C. Website & Online Presence

□ Website quality (mobile-friendly, speed, design)
□ Is there online ordering/booking?
□ Menu/pricing visible?
□ Blog or content?
□ Email signup visible?
□ SEO basics (title tags, descriptions)

D. Reviews & Reputation

What customers LOVE about them (extract from reviews):
1. [e.g., "Fast service" — mentioned 8 times]
2. [e.g., "Friendly staff" — mentioned 6 times]

What customers COMPLAIN about (their weak spots):
1. [e.g., "Expensive" — mentioned 5 times]
2. [e.g., "Parking is hard" — mentioned 4 times]

→ Their weaknesses = YOUR opportunities

E. Promotions & Marketing

□ Current offers or deals
□ Loyalty program
□ Referral program
□ Email/SMS marketing
□ Partnerships with other local businesses
□ Events or community involvement

Step 3: Competitive Matrix Output as a comparison table:

COMPETITIVE COMPARISON: [Business Type] in [City/Area]

Feature          | Us        | Comp A   | Comp B   | Comp C
-----------------|-----------|----------|----------|----------
Google Rating    | 4.5 ⭐    | 4.2 ⭐   | 4.7 ⭐   | 3.9 ⭐  
# of Reviews     | 87        | 203      | 56       | 41
Post Frequency   | 1x/week   | 3x/week  | 1x/month | Never
Instagram Fol.   | 1,200     | 3,400    | 890      | 450
Response Rate    | 100%      | 60%      | 90%      | 20%
Online Ordering  | ✅        | ✅       | ❌       | ❌
Loyalty Program  | ❌        | ✅       | ❌       | ❌
Happy Hour/Deals | Weekly    | Daily    | Never    | Monthly
Website Mobile   | ✅ Fast   | ✅ Slow  | ❌       | ✅ Decent

Step 4: Identify Opportunities The gap analysis — what you can exploit:

🔵 OUR ADVANTAGES (defend & amplify):
- [e.g., Higher Google rating than anyone]
- [e.g., Only business with online ordering]

🟡 COMPETITOR WEAKNESSES (attack):
- [e.g., Comp A responds to only 60% of reviews — 
   we can win by responding to 100%]
- [e.g., Comp B doesn't post on social — 
   we can own that channel]

🟢 MARKET GAPS (nobody is doing this):
- [e.g., No one has a loyalty program]
- [e.g., No one posts behind-the-scenes content]
- [e.g., No one does a weekly email newsletter]

Step 5: Provide 3 Actionable Recommendations

🚀 TOP 3 ACTIONS FOR THIS WEEK:

1. [Action] — [Why] — [Expected Impact]
   e.g., "Post 3x this week on Instagram. Comp A is 
   out-posting us 3:1 and capturing attention."

2. [Action] — [Why] — [Expected Impact]
   e.g., "Respond to all 12 unanswered reviews today. 
   Comp A ignores 40% of theirs — being responsive 
   builds trust."

3. [Action] — [Why] — [Expected Impact]
   e.g., "Add a 'Refer a Friend' card to every bag. 
   No competitor has a referral program — this is 
   free customer acquisition."

7. Local SEO Keyfinder

Quick Info

  • Skill Name: Local SEO Keyfinder
  • Description: Researches and prioritizes local keywords that actual customers are searching for — including "near me" queries, service + location combinations, and long-tail questions. Provides a content and optimization roadmap based on keyword opportunities.
  • Category: Marketing / Local SEO
  • Best For: Any local business wanting to be found in Google search and Maps

Trigger Phrases

  • "What keywords should I target for my local business?"
  • "Find local SEO keywords for me"
  • "What are people searching for in [city]?"
  • "Help me rank for 'near me' searches"
  • "I want to show up when people search for [service] in [city]"
  • "What search terms bring customers to businesses like mine?"

Key Instructions

Step 1: Understand Keyword Types for Local Businesses

4 Types of Local Keywords:

1. "Near me" & Implicit Near Me
   - "pizza near me"
   - "coffee shop near me"
   - "dentist open now"
   → Google uses location data; optimize GBP

2. Service + Location
   - "hair salon Austin"
   - "plumber Brooklyn"
   - "best Italian restaurant Chicago"
   → Most competitive; highest intent

3. Service + Modifier
   - "affordable plumber"
   - "24 hour dentist"
   - "vegan bakery"
   → Qualifies intent; less competitive

4. Long-tail Questions
   - "how much does a haircut cost in [city]"
   - "what's the best pizza place for delivery near [street]"
   - "when do farmers markets open in [city]"
   → Lowest competition; content opportunity

Step 2: Research Keywords (Free Methods)

Method 1: Google Autocomplete
Type into Google: "[service] in [city]" and note suggestions
Example: "pizza in" → "pizza in Chicago", "pizza in [neighborhood]"

Method 2: Google's "People Also Ask"
Search your main keyword → scrape the PAA boxes
These are real questions people are asking

Method 3: Google Search Console
Go to Performance → Queries
Filter by your pages that rank 8-20 (easy wins)
Look for queries with impressions but low clicks

Method 4: Customer Language Audit
Look at your existing reviews — what words do customers use?
(They often use different terms than you do!)

Method 5: Google Maps Search
Type "[service]" with your Maps location centered
Note what auto-suggests in the Maps search bar

Method 6: AnswerThePublic (Free tier)
Enter "[service] [city]" → get question-based keywords

Step 3: Build the Keyword Table Output a structured table:

LOCAL KEYWORD OPPORTUNITIES: [Business Name]

Primary Keywords (High volume, competitive — optimize GBP + homepage):

| Keyword | Search Intent | Competition | Priority | Where to Use |
|---------|--------------|-------------|----------|-------------|
| [service] [city] | Transactional | High | ⭐⭐⭐ | Homepage, GBP |
| [service] near me | Transactional | High | ⭐⭐⭐ | GBP, Website |
| best [service] [city] | Commercial | Medium | ⭐⭐⭐ | Homepage, Blog |
| [service] [neighborhood] | Transactional | Medium | ⭐⭐⭐ | GBP, Landing page |

Secondary Keywords (Medium volume — optimize service pages + posts):

| Keyword | Intent | Competition | Priority | Where to Use |
|---------|--------|-------------|----------|-------------|
| affordable [service] [city] | Commercial | Low | ⭐⭐ | Pricing page |
| [service] open now [city] | Transactional | Low | ⭐⭐ | GBP hours |
| [service] for [specific need] | Informational | Low | ⭐⭐ | Blog post |
| [city] [service] [descriptor] | Commercial | Low | ⭐⭐ | Service page |

Long-tail Content Keywords (Low volume, high conversion — blog/social):

| Keyword | Intent | Competition | Priority | Content Idea |
|---------|--------|-------------|----------|-------------|
| how to [related topic] | Informational | Very Low | ⭐ | Blog: "How to..." |
| [service] vs [alternative] | Commercial | Very Low | ⭐ | Comparison post |
| what to look for in [service] | Informational | Very Low | ⭐ | Buyer's guide |
| best time for [service] [city] | Informational | Very Low | ⭐ | Seasonal post |

Step 4: Map Keywords to Content

For each priority keyword, create a content plan:

Keyword: "emergency plumber Austin TX"

Content to Create:
1. Homepage section: "24/7 Emergency Plumbing in Austin"
   → Include phone number prominently
   → Mention response time ("60 minutes or less")

2. Service page: "Emergency Plumbing Services Austin"
   → List common emergencies (burst pipes, clogged drains)
   → Service area map
   → Testimonials from emergency calls

3. GBP Post: "Got a plumbing emergency? We're available 
   24/7. Call [number]. #AustinPlumber #EmergencyPlumbing"

4. Blog post: "What to Do in a Plumbing Emergency [City Guide]"
   → Step-by-step instructions
   → When to call a pro vs DIY
   → Your emergency contact info

Step 5: Technical Local SEO Checklist

For each keyword group, ensure:

☐ Keyword appears in page title tag
☐ Keyword appears in H1 (once, naturally)
☐ Keyword appears in URL slug
☐ Keyword appears in meta description (1x, naturally)
☐ Keyword appears in first 100 words of content
☐ City/neighborhood name on page (NATURALLY, not stuffed)
☐ NAP (Name, Address, Phone) on every page
☐ Embedded Google Map on contact page
☐ Schema markup: LocalBusiness structured data

LocalBusiness Schema example:
<script type="application/ld+json">
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "LocalBusiness",
  "name": "[Business Name]",
  "image": "[logo URL]",
  "address": {
    "@type": "PostalAddress",
    "streetAddress": "[Street Address]",
    "addressLocality": "[City]",
    "addressRegion": "[State]",
    "postalCode": "[ZIP]"
  },
  "telephone": "[Phone]",
  "openingHours": "Mo-Fr 09:00-17:00",
  "url": "[Website URL]"
}
</script>

Step 6: Content Calendar Based on Keywords

WEEK 1: Primary Keywords
- Update homepage H1 with main keyword
- Write GBP description with top 3 keywords
- Create 1 GBP post with secondary keyword

WEEK 2: Secondary / Service Keywords
- Create/optimize 1 service page
- Write 1 blog post for a long-tail question

WEEK 3: Local Content
- Write a neighborhood guide or "Best of [City]" post
- Get listed on 2 local directories/citation sites

WEEK 4: Review & Measure
- Check Google Search Console for keyword impressions
- Note which keywords are gaining traction
- Adjust strategy for next month

Monthly recurring:
- Add 1 new blog post targeting a long-tail keyword
- Create 4 GBP posts (1 per week)
- Check rankings for top 10 keywords
- Add 1 new citation/directory listing

Quick Reference: When to Use Each Skill

If you want to...Use this skill
Get more followers and views on social mediaSocial Reel Maker
Send a promotion to your customer listCampaign Writer
Get existing customers to bring in new onesReferral Builder
Show up higher in Google Maps and local searchGBP Optimizer
Handle customer reviews like a proReview Responder
See what competitors are doing and beat themCompetitor Scout
Find the exact words people search forLocal SEO Keyfinder

Marketing Quick Wins Calendar

DAY 1:  ☐ Respond to all unanswered reviews (Review Responder)
DAY 2:  ☐ Post 1 Reel/Reel idea (Social Reel Maker)
DAY 3:  ☐ Add 3 new photos to GBP (GBP Optimizer)
DAY 4:  ☐ Research 5 local keywords (Local SEO Keyfinder)
DAY 5:  ☐ Check 1 competitor's social (Competitor Scout)
WEEK 2: ☐ Send 1 promotional email/SMS (Campaign Writer)
WEEK 3: ☐ Design referral program (Referral Builder)
WEEK 4: ☐ Post weekly GBP updates (GBP Optimizer)

Built for local business owners who wear every hat. No marketing degree required.

Frequently asked questions

What does the Local Business Growth AI skill do?

A mini marketing agency in skill form — 7 practical, actionable marketing skills designed for local business owners (shop owners, restaurants, service providers) who don't have a marketing team. Covers social media content, email/SMS campaigns, referral programs, Google Business Profile optimization, review management, competitor analysis, and local SEO.

Why use Local Business Growth on TypingMind?

Because you install it once and use it with any model. Local Business Growth is plain Markdown rather than provider-specific code, so the same skill runs on GPT-5, Claude, Gemini, Grok, or a local model — and you can switch model mid-chat without it breaking. TypingMind runs on your own API keys, so you pay providers directly instead of a per-seat subscription, and your skills and chats stay in your own storage.

How do I install Local Business Growth in TypingMind?

Open Plugins → Skills → Install from GitHub in TypingMind and paste https://github.com/cosmicstack-labs/mercury-agent-skills/tree/main/categories/marketing/local-business-growth. TypingMind reads its SKILL.md and installs it as a skill you can enable per chat.

Which AI models can use Local Business Growth?

Any model you connect in TypingMind. AI skills are plain Markdown instructions rather than provider-specific code, so GPT, Claude, Gemini, Grok, and local models can all load this skill when a request matches it.

How many AI models can I use with Local Business Growth?

As many as you like. As long as a model supports skills, you can use Local Business Growth with it — GPT, Claude, Gemini, Grok, DeepSeek, Mistral, Llama and more — all on TypingMind with your own API keys.

Is the Local Business Growth AI skill free?

Yes. It is published on GitHub by cosmicstack-labs under the MIT license. You only pay your own AI provider for the tokens you use.

What are AI skills?

An AI skill is a reusable instruction bundle that teaches an AI model how to do one specific task. It follows the open Agent Skills format: a SKILL.md file with a name and description, plus any scripts, templates or reference files the model may need. The model reads the instructions only when your request matches the skill, so an installed skill costs nothing until it is used.

How are AI skills different from plugins or MCP servers?

A plugin or MCP server gives a model new tools to call — code that runs somewhere and returns a result. An AI skill gives the model knowledge and process instead: how to approach a task, which steps to follow, what good output looks like. Skills are plain Markdown, so they need no server, no API key and no runtime, and they work with any model.

View all

Set up your own AI workspace now

Get notified about new features and future giveaways by subscribing to our newsletter 👇