Location-based Keyword Targeting

[kylesuss]

We are located in Denver, Colorado. I want the majority of the site to be focused on Denver keyword terms but I also think we should branch out to other cities around Denver, as well as around the keyword "Colorado."

What's an appropriate way to do this? I've seen site that have a page for every city in the area but it looks terrible and doesn't really fit into the site. How do I cross link to these new city pages (I don't want them in the main navigation)?

[RyanKent]

Good judgement prevails on these types of decision. Google does not offer a handbook that says "60% of the content must be original to the page". There isn't even any guideline offered.

What I would share is most of a web page should be original content. You can provide a paragraph on your services, additional information on your coverage area which would be unique to the page, testimonials from customers in that area, andspecific examples of customers in that area such as "we provide services for Washington Elementary School located in Denver".

User generated content such as comments are very helpful. Engage your customers and ask for feedback.

[kylesuss]

How original does content have to be? I mean say we have a page for Denver and one for Colorado -- The services we offer will be exactly the same. Do I basically just need to make sure I'm not copying and pasting the entire page? What if there is 1 paragraph that is exactly the same?

[RyanKent]

Kyle, like many parts of SEO your decision would differ based on your goals, resources (time, money, content) and competition.

If you are working on a plumber's website who's service is identical in each location and has a relatively small budget and site, you can offer a single page and mention your service area. You can provide testimonials from "Bob in Denver" and "Joe in Boulder" to capture some city names. Building links from satisfied customers in the area would be a great way to associate your page with that area.

If you are working on a larger site with more resources you can provide a detailed page on locations you have in the area and offer custom directions. "From Hwy 1 use Exit A then go 1 mile and turn left of Main street...." You can further detail service needs related to the area such as "clearing the snow out from the Mile High city...".

These are ways you can fill out otherwise thin content while making your pages potentially helpful and relating to your readers without appearing spammy.

[KatMouse]

One way to do that is create a "Service Areas" page where you list all the cities you service. From there link from the city to a city-specific page that lists your services. Make sure the content is original! On that page you can add location-specific anchor text such as "Denver plumbing services" or "Denver heating repair."