Best methodology for creating local keywords when Google has no data?

[DoriC]

Generally I'll look at data for specific geographical searches and incorporate the data from the other keywords, then track the metrics.  I think there is likely a more efficient system but I'm not sure where to start.

[RDK]

Are you describing a problem of semantics- different ways of saying the same location?

Are you looking for data that will help you choose the right "local" markets to pursue (demographic data)?

Are you marketing different products depending on the demographics of a location?

Either way, I know of a great tool to help you out.  It costs a little money (not much for research purposes) and it's called Google AdWords.       I get a GREAT DEAL of information from Adwords campaigns.  If you don't have any PPC experience, then I'd consider some good old-fashioned competitive research.  What are your competitors (within that geographic local) doing?  What words are they using in their copy?

Good luck!

[DoriC]

Thanks for your response.

1.  This is a general question.

2.  Yes, exactly.

3.  Other keyword data/geographical searches means doing pretty much exactly what you've discussed- I research the category/product/industry and then add the local terms in after.

However, I've found that the best local terms can vary widely depending on the geography (low versus high income demographics, for example.)  So, then I research the way people search in specific locations.  When I have lots of businesses in one area, there's overlap and its no problem, but the keywords people in Grafton, VT use to describe their location within a phrase is considerably different from White Plains, NY, for example.

Am I totally overthinking this?  Interestingly enough, I can't find any information on the topic.  Does anyone has an easy method for figuring out the best local terms, even if its independent entirely from the global keywords?

[RDK]

Some clarification would help here.

1. Do you have a specific industry/category of keywords in which you are targeting?

2. Are you are using Google's Keyword Tool to research search term volume, but are coming up empty-handed because the local search doesn't have enough data to provide any information, as it is too specific?

3. What do you mean by incorporating geographical searches and "other keyword data"?

If question #2 is your issue, the best approach is to apply your research on those same category/product/industry keywords without the local terms inserted.  You can then extrapolate that data with mild accuracy to the local level (ie. use the global approach w/ local terms inserted)