Beginners Guide to Local SEO: What It Is and How to Get Started

Beginners Guide to Local SEO What It Is and How to Get Started (2). Maroon background. Left red navigation icon with white center, Local in black letters. Right. black background two dimensional grey blocks. S E O in white blocks with light blue shadow

Local SEO is a game-changer in digital marketing, particularly for businesses targeting specific geographic areas. It’s about being visible to local customers searching for your services or products. This focuses on the ‘where’ factor, distinguishing local SEO from general SEO and targeting a broader audience.

In this guide, we’ll explore the key strategies of Local SEO, helping you connect effectively with your local market. Starting with understanding local search algorithms, we’ll dig into optimizing for Google business profiles and exploring local keyword research and content creation.

Next, we discuss the importance of local backlinks, the power of leveraging local reviews and ratings, and the necessity of mobile optimization. Followed by utilizing local schema markup and strategies for tracking and analyzing local SEO performance. This post concludes with a recap, further reading, and a FAQ section.

Affiliate Disclaimer: I’m an affiliate of Wealthy Affiliate and Jaaxy, meaning I may earn a commission if you use their service through my links.

Table of Contents

Understanding Local Search Algorithms
  • Local search Algorithms
    • They are like puzzle-solving methods in the computer world. They help find answers by making small changes, step by step until they find a good solution. It’s like trying different puzzle pieces individually to see which fits best.
  • On the other hand, local SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
    • It is about making your business easy to find online for people in your local area. It’s like putting a big, bright sign on your shop so people nearby can easily see it and come to you.
  • The Connection:
    • Both involve searching: Local search algorithms involve a computer searching for answers, while local SEO involves customers searching for businesses.
    • Both aim to improve: In local search algorithms, computers keep trying to improve their answers. In Local SEO, businesses keep improving their online presence to be found more easily.

While they both deal with searching and improving, local search algorithms are about how computers solve problems, and Local SEO is about helping local customers find your business online.

Local SEO Ranking Factors:

Local search rankings, particularly in the context of Local SEO, are influenced by various factors. These are key elements that search engines like Google use to determine how to rank businesses and websites in search results for local queries. The main factors include:

  • Google My Business Profile: Having accurate and detailed information in your Google My Business profile is crucial. This includes your business name, address, phone number, business hours, and categories.
  • Reviews and Ratings: Positive reviews and high ratings on your Google My Business profile and other review sites can significantly boost your local search ranking.
  • Local Keywords: Including location-specific keywords in your website’s content, meta tags, and URLs can help you rank higher in local searches.
  • NAP Consistency: NAP stands for Name, Address, Phone Number. It is essential that this information is consistent across the web, including directories and social media.
  • Local Backlinks: Links from local businesses, organizations, and events can enhance your local SEO.
  • Mobile Optimization: A mobile-friendly website is crucial since many local searches are done on mobile devices.
  • Local Content: Publishing content relevant to your local area, such as local news, events, or community activities, can improve local search visibility.
  • On-Page SEO Factors: Traditional SEO factors like title tags, meta descriptions, and header tags, when optimized with local keywords, also influence local rankings.
  • Social Signals: Engagement on social media platforms can indirectly impact local search rankings.
  • User Experience: Factors like website speed, easy navigation, and quality content contribute to a better user experience, which can indirectly affect local SEO.
  • Proximity: The geographical distance between the searcher and the business significantly affects local search rankings.

Focusing on these key elements can enhance your visibility in local search results and help you connect more effectively with your target audience.

Local SEO’s Role in Digital Marketing and how it Differs from General SEO:

Local SEO is a specialized branch of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) that optimizes a business’s online presence to attract more customers from relevant local searches. Here’s how it differs from general SEO:

Target Audience:

  • Local SEO targets users searching for products or services in a specific location.
    • For instance, someone searching for “coffee shops in downtown Chicago” is a local search.
  • General SEO targets a broader, often global audience without a specific geographic focus. It’s about ranking for keywords, not necessarily linked to a particular location.

Optimization Strategies:

  • Local SEO involves optimizing for location-specific keywords, claiming and managing Google My Business listings, getting listed in local directories, managing reviews and ratings, and creating locally relevant content.
  • General SEO focuses on optimizing website content, building backlinks, improving site structure and user experience, and targeting broader keywords to improve organic search visibility.

Intent of Search Queries:

  • Local SEO often deals with high-intent searches, where users are likely to take immediate action, like visiting a store or making a phone call.
  • General SEO may cater to informational queries where users seek knowledge or answers without immediate plans for a physical engagement.

Impact on Business:

  • Local SEO is vital for restaurants, shops, service providers, and regional franchises. It drives foot traffic and local online visibility.
  • General SEO is crucial for businesses operating on a national or international level, eCommerce sites, and content-driven websites seeking a wide reach.

Measurement of Success:

  • Local SEO success is often measured by increased search rankings, Google Maps visibility, calls or inquiries from local customers, and foot traffic.
  • General SEO success is typically gauged by overall organic traffic, rankings for specific keywords, backlink quality and quantity, and conversion rates.

Local SEO is an essential component of digital marketing for businesses that serve specific geographic areas. It requires strategies tailored to local search dynamics and consumer behavior, differentiating it from the more globally oriented approaches of general SEO.

Note: All of the lists in this post are a mix of free and paid tools and resources. It’s important to do your research, considering your specific goals and budget, to find the best fit for your Local SEO needs.

Tools and Resources for Understanding Local Search Algorithms:
  • GoGoogle Business Profile Insights: Gain insights into how customers interact with your business listing on Google.
  • Moz Local: Manage your listings and understand your local search performance. Moz also offers educational content on local SEO.
  • BrightLocal: A tool for tracking local rankings and monitoring reviews, BrightLocal also provides guides and webinars on local SEO.
  • SEMrush’s Listing Management Tool: SEMrush is useful for managing local listings and tracking rankings. It also offers comprehensive guides and blog posts on SEO.
  • How to improve your local ranking on Google: This official guide from Google offers direct insights into how businesses can enhance their visibility in local search results. It covers key factors like information accuracy, customer engagement, and your Google Business Profile optimization.
  • Search Engine Journal: A great resource for staying updated on the latest trends and changes in search algorithms, including local SEO.
  • Local SEO Guide: Offers in-depth guides, blog posts, and case studies on local SEO strategies.

These resources provide practical tools for managing your Local SEO and educational content to help you stay informed about the latest developments in local search algorithms.

Optimizing for Google Business Profile

Optimizing your Google Business Profile profile is a cornerstone of effective Local SEO. A well-managed Google Business Profile significantly boosts your visibility in local searches.

Here’s a guide to setting up and optimizing your profile:

  1. Create or Claim Your Business Profile: Visit the Google Business Profile and either claim your existing business listing or create a new one.
  2. Provide Comprehensive and Accurate Information: Fill in every detail about your business. This includes your business name, address, phone number, website, hours of operation, and categories that best describe your business.
  3. Verify Your Business: Google must verify your business, usually through a mailed postcard, phone call, or email.
  4. Add High-Quality Photos: Upload clear and professional photos of your business, including the exterior, interior, and examples of your products or services.
  5. Encourage and Respond to Reviews: Actively encourage your customers to leave reviews. Respond to these reviews, both positive and negative, to show that you value customer feedback.
  6. Keep Your Information Updated: Regularly update your profile to reflect any changes in your business, like new hours, temporary closures, or new services.
  7. Utilize Posts and Updates: Use the Posts feature in Google Business Profile to share updates, offers, events, and other relevant content to engage with your audience.

The importance of accurate and updated information on your Google Business Profile profile cannot be overstated. It helps customers find you and builds trust and credibility in your local market. A well-optimized Google Business Profile profile is your first step towards dominating local search results.

Local Keyword Research and Content Creation

Effective Local SEO hinges on using the right keywords and creating content that resonates with a regional audience.

Finding Local Keywords:
  • Use Keyword Research Tools: This can help identify popular local search terms relevant to your business.
  • Include Geographic Modifiers: Add location-specific terms to your keywords, like city names or neighborhoods.
  • Analyze Competitors: Look at what keywords your local competitors are targeting and consider how you can incorporate similar terms.
  • Consider Local Slang or Phrases: Be aware of how locals speak about your area or services, and include these terms in your keyword strategy.
Creating Locally Relevant Content:
  • Address Local Issues or Topics: Write about local events, news, or issues relevant to your business and audience.
  • Use Local Language and References: Incorporate local language nuances or landmarks to make your content more relatable.
  • Highlight Local Testimonials and Case Studies: Share stories or reviews from local customers to build trust and relevance.
  • Optimize for Local SEO: Use local keywords naturally in your titles, meta descriptions, headers, and throughout your content.
  • Mobile Optimization: Ensure your content is mobile-friendly, as many local searches are done on mobile devices.

Tools and Resources for Local Keyword Research and Content Creation:

  • SEMrush: This comprehensive SEO tool includes features for local keyword research and competitor analysis.
  • Jaaxy: Provides advanced keyword research capabilities, helping to pinpoint effective local keywords. It’s a versatile tool for both general and local SEO needs. (AffiliateDisclaimer: I am an affiliate of Jaaxy and base my recommendation on positive experience using this tool).
  • Mangools KW Finder: A powerful keyword research tool that simplifies the process of finding high-impact keywords for your Local SEO strategy.
  • BuzzSumo: Great for content research, helping you find popular local topics and trends.
  • Yoast SEO Plugin for WordPress: This plugin helps optimize your content for local SEO, which is especially useful if your site is on WordPress.

These tools and resources can guide your local keyword research and content creation process, ensuring your efforts are well-targeted and effective.

Local backlinks are a vital component of Local SEO. They act as endorsements that boost your credibility and visibility in local search results.

Here’s how to effectively build local backlinks:

  • Collaborate with Local Businesses: Partner with nearby businesses for cross-promotion. This can include guest blogging on each other’s sites or co-hosting local events.
  • Engage in Local Community Events: Participate in or sponsor local events, fairs, or charity drives. These events often have websites where they list their sponsors with a link.
  • Get Listed in Local Directories: Ensure your business is listed in local directories and associations, often providing a backlink.
  • Utilize Local Media: Contact local newspapers, radio stations, and news websites for features or interviews, which can lead to valuable backlinks.
  • Create Locally Relevant Content: Publish content that appeals to a local audience, such as guides to local activities or industry news, encouraging local sites to link to your content.
Boosting Local SEO through Partnerships and Community Engagement:
  • Form Strategic Local Partnerships: Align with local organizations or non-profits. These partnerships can lead to backlinks from their websites and mentions in their communications.
  • Engage with Local Online Communities: Participate in local forums, social media groups, or online communities relevant to your area and industry.
  • Host or Sponsor Local Events: Events create opportunities for online promotion and backlinks from event pages, press releases, and local media coverage.

Building local backlinks is not just about placing links; it’s about creating genuine connections and providing value to your local community. This approach enhances your Local SEO and strengthens your local presence and reputation.

Tools and Resources for Building Local Backlinks:

  • Local Business Directories: Platform websites are key for getting listed and earning backlinks like:
  • Event Platforms like Eventbrite: These can be used to host or promote local events, which can generate backlinks from event listings.
  • BuzzStream: A tool for managing outreach and building relationships with local influencers and businesses.
  • Meetup: Great for organizing local events or joining existing ones, which can lead to backlinks from event pages and community discussions.
  • Moz’s Link Explorer: Useful for tracking your backlinks and identifying potential local link-building opportunities.

These tools and resources can help streamline your efforts in building local backlinks, making your process more efficient and effective.

Leveraging Local Reviews and Ratings

Local reviews and ratings play a significant role in SEO, influencing your search rankings and customer trust.

Here’s how to effectively leverage them:

Impact of Reviews and Ratings on Local Search Rankings:
  • Quantity and Quality of Reviews: More positive reviews can improve your visibility in local search results.
  • Frequency and Freshness: Regularly receiving new reviews signals to search engines that your business is active and relevant.
  • Response to Reviews: Engaging with reviews, both positive and negative, shows that you value customer feedback, which can positively impact your rankings.
Best Practices for Managing and Responding to Customer Reviews:
  • Encourage Reviews: Prompt satisfied customers to leave reviews. This can be done post-purchase, through follow-up emails, or in-person interactions.
  • Respond Promptly and Politely: Address both positive and negative reviews professionally. Thank customers for positive feedback and address any concerns raised in negative reviews.
  • Use Reviews to Improve: Analyze feedback to identify areas for improvement in your products or services.
  • Display Reviews on Your Website: Showcase customer testimonials on your site, which can enhance trust and encourage more customers to leave reviews.
  • Monitor Your Online Reputation: Regularly check your reviews across different platforms to stay informed and responsive.

By actively managing and leveraging your local reviews and ratings, you boost your Local SEO and build a stronger relationship with your customer base, fostering trust and loyalty.

Tools and Resources for Leveraging Local Reviews and Ratings:

  • Google Business Profile: Essential for monitoring and responding to reviews on Google.
  • Yelp for Business Owners: Yelp is a major platform for local reviews, especially for consumer-facing businesses.
  • Trustpilot: A platform for collecting and displaying customer reviews, helping to build trust and credibility.
  • ReviewTrackers: This tool helps track reviews across various platforms, making monitoring and responding to them easier.
  • Podium: Offers tools for review management and messaging, helping businesses improve their online reputation and customer interactions.
  • Hootsuite: While primarily a social media management tool, Hootsuite can also monitor mentions and reviews on social platforms.

These tools can help you effectively manage your online reputation, respond to customer reviews, and leverage them to enhance your Local SEO efforts.

Mobile Optimization for Local SEO

Mobile optimization is crucial for Local SEO. With many local searches conducted on mobile devices, having a mobile-friendly website is essential.

  • Increased Visibility in Local Searches: Search engines favor mobile-optimized sites, especially in local search results.
  • Improved User Experience: A mobile-friendly site ensures a positive experience for smartphone users, which can lead to longer visit durations and lower bounce rates.
  • Higher Conversion Rates: Mobile users often seek quick information or solutions, and a mobile-optimized site can lead to higher engagement and conversions.
Tips for Optimizing for Mobile Users:
  • Responsive Design: Ensure your website adjusts seamlessly to different screen sizes and orientations.
  • Fast Loading Speed: Optimize your website’s loading speed by compressing images, leveraging browser caching, and minimizing code.
  • Easy Navigation: Simplify your site’s navigation to make it easy for mobile users to find what they need.
  • Click-to-Call Buttons: Include easily accessible click-to-call buttons for immediate contact.
  • Local Content: Incorporate local keywords and content relevant to your mobile audience.
  • Test Your Site’s Mobile Usability: Use tools like Lighthouse. Test to check how well your site performs on mobile devices.

By prioritizing mobile optimization, you cater to the growing number of mobile users and enhance your overall Local SEO strategy, making your business more accessible and appealing to the local audience.

Tools and Resources for Mobile Optimization in Local SEO:

  • Lighthouse: A tool for auditing web page quality, focusing on mobile optimization. It provides insights for performance, accessibility, and SEO improvements.
  • PageSpeed Insights by Google: Analyze the content of your web page, then generate suggestions to make your page faster, which is crucial for mobile optimization.
  • Responsive Design Checker: Ensure your website is responsive across various devices and screen sizes.

These tools can guide you in optimizing your website for mobile users, ensuring a better user experience and improved performance in local search rankings.

Utilizing Local Schema Markup

Local Schema Markup is a powerful tool for boosting your local SEO efforts.

Here’s why it matters and how to implement it effectively:

Explanation of Schema Markup and Its Significance for Local SEO:
  • What is Schema Markup: Schema Markup is a structured data vocabulary that helps search engines understand the content on your website. It provides context to your information, making it more meaningful.
  • Significance for Local SEO: Local Schema Markup enhances the visibility of your content in search results, especially in local search. It allows you to provide specific details about your business, such as address, phone number, business hours, and more.
How to Implement Local Schema to Enhance Visibility in Search Results:
  1. Choose the Right Schema Type: Select your business’s most relevant schema type. “LocalBusiness” or “Organization” schema types are often appropriate for local businesses.
  2. Add Schema Markup to Your Website: Embed schema markup in your website’s HTML code, specifically on pages where you want to provide local business information.
  3. Verify Your Information: Ensure that the information you provide through schema markup matches the details on your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) and other online listings.
  4. Test Your Schema Markup: Use Google’s Structured Data Testing Tool to verify your schema markup is correctly implemented.
  5. Monitor and Update: Regularly review and update your schema markup to reflect any changes in your business details.

By effectively implementing local schema markup, you enhance your visibility in local search results and provide search engines with valuable information about your business, improving your chances of appearing in rich results and local knowledge panels.

Tools and Resources for Implementing Local Schema Markup:

  • Schema.org: The official website for schema markup provides comprehensive documentation and examples for implementing schema on your website.
  • Google’s Structured Data Testing Tool: This tool will validate and test your schema markup to ensure it’s correctly implemented and error-free.
  • Google’s Rich Results Test: Check how your schema markup affects your eligibility for rich results in Google Search.

These tools and resources can help you correctly implement local schema markup on your website, providing valuable information to search engines and improving your local search visibility.

Tracking and Analyzing Local SEO Performance

Tracking and analysis are essential to ensure the success of your local SEO efforts.

Here’s how to monitor performance and make data-driven adjustments:

Tools and Metrics for Monitoring Local SEO Success:
  • Google Analytics: This powerful tool provides insights into website traffic, including the sources of your visitors and their behavior on your site. It’s crucial for understanding user engagement.
  • Google Search Console: Gain valuable data on your site’s performance in Google’s search results. It offers information about clicks, impressions, click-through rates, and more.
  • Rank Tracking Tools: You can track your keyword rankings in search results. Monitor your local keyword rankings to assess your visibility.
    • SE Ranking: Provides rank-tracking features and a suite of SEO tools to help you monitor and improve your search engine rankings.
  • SERPWatcher by Mangools: Part of the Mangools SEO suite, SERPWatcher allows you to track keyword rankings and monitor your performance on search engine results pages (SERPs).
  • Pro Rank Tracker: This tool offers extensive rank-tracking capabilities, including local tracking options to monitor your rankings in specific locations.
  • Serpstat: Along with keyword research and competitor analysis, Serpstat provides rank-tracking features to help you stay on top of your local SEO efforts.
  • Local SEO Software: Platforms offer specific tools for tracking local SEO performance, including tracking local rankings and monitoring online reviews like:
Adjusting Strategies Based on Performance Data:
  • Analyze Traffic and Conversion Data: Regularly review Google Analytics to understand how your visitors behave. Are they engaging with your site? Are they converting into customers?
  • Monitor Keyword Rankings: Use rank-tracking tools to monitor your rankings. Identify which keywords are performing well and which may need optimization.
  • Review Google Search Console Data: Look for opportunities to improve click-through rates and identify keywords that drive traffic but need better optimization.
  • Track Online Reviews: Monitor online reviews and ratings. Respond to reviews and address any negative feedback promptly.
  • Local SEO Audits: Conduct regular audits of your local SEO efforts to ensure your website and online profiles are optimized for local search.

By consistently tracking and analyzing your local SEO performance, you can identify areas for improvement, adjust your strategies, and stay competitive in local search results.

Conclusion

We’ve explored critical aspects to help you enhance your online presence and effectively connect with your local audience.

Let’s recap the key points we’ve covered:

  • Introduction to Local SEO: We began by understanding the significance of local SEO and its role in connecting with your local audience.
  • Understanding Local Search Algorithms: We delved into how search engines prioritize local results and the factors influencing local search rankings.
  • Optimizing for Google Business Profile: Your Google Business Profile plays a crucial role, and we provided comprehensive guidance on setting it up and optimizing it.
  • Local Keyword Research and Content Creation: We explored techniques for identifying local keywords and crafting content tailored to your regional audience.
  • Importance of Local Backlinks: Strategies for building and forming local partnerships to boost your SEO were discussed.
  • Leveraging Local Reviews and Ratings: We emphasized the impact of customer reviews and shared best practices for managing and responding to them.
  • Mobile Optimization for Local SEO: The significance of mobile-friendly websites and tips for mobile optimization were highlighted.
  • Utilizing Local Schema Markup: We explained how schema markup can enhance your visibility in local search results and provided practical implementation guidelines.
  • Tracking and Analyzing Local SEO Performance: Tools and metrics for monitoring local SEO success and making data-driven adjustments to strategies were outlined.

Remember, success in Local SEO often comes from taking proactive steps to connect with your local audience.

Consider applying these insights to enhance your online presence within your target communities.

Share Your Journey and Tips:

We would love to hear about your experiences and any tips you have to share! What Local SEO strategies do you use? What challenges have you faced, and what successes have you celebrated? Your insights can inspire and help others in the community. Share your stories, tips, and advice in the comments below.

Further Reading
Additional Resources

You can explore the following resources to expand your understanding of Local SEO and enhance your strategies. This list includes a mix of free and paid tools and resources. It’s important to do your research, considering your specific goals and budget, to find the best fit for your Local SEO needs.

  • Moz’s Local SEO Learning Center: Moz offers a dedicated learning center with articles, guides, and tools to help you master the art of local SEO.
  • BrightLocal’s Blog: Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and tips in local SEO.
  • SEMrush’s Local SEO Toolkit: SEMrush provides a comprehensive guide and toolkit for local SEO, including tools for keyword research, backlink analysis, and more.
  • Schema.org: Learn more about schema markup and how it can enhance your local search results.
  • Search Engine Land: Provides comprehensive coverage of the latest news, trends, and developments in search engines and digital marketing, making it a valuable resource for staying updated on Local SEO.
  • Search Engine Journal: Offers news, insights, and practical advice on SEO, including local search, making it a great source for staying informed about the industry.

These resources offer valuable insights, tools, and information to help you refine your local SEO strategies and stay ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

Q1: Why is Local SEO important for businesses?
A1: Local SEO is essential for businesses because it helps them connect with their local audience, increase online visibility in specific geographic areas, and drive more foot traffic to physical locations.

Q2: How does Local SEO differ from general SEO?
A2: While general SEO aims to improve a website’s visibility on a broader scale, Local SEO is focused on optimizing for local search results. It often involves location-based keywords and online directory management.

Q3: What are the key factors that influence local search rankings?
A3: Local search rankings are influenced by factors such as the accuracy of business information, the quality of online reviews, website optimization for local keywords, and customer engagement through platforms like Google Business Profile.

Q4: How can businesses optimize their Google Business Profile?
A4: Optimizing a Google Business Profile involves ensuring accurate information, encouraging customer reviews, posting regularly, and engaging with customer inquiries and comments.

Q5: What tools can assist in local keyword research?
A5: Tools that help identify relevant local keywords that resonate with your target audience, like

  • Jaaxy
    • (AffiliateDisclaimer: I am an affiliate of Jaaxy and base my recommendation on positive experience using this tool).

Q6: How can businesses build local backlinks and partnerships for Local SEO?
A6: Building local backlinks involves contacting local websites and directories for link placements. Forming partnerships with local businesses and participating in community activities can also boost Local SEO.

Q7: What are the best practices for managing customer reviews in Local SEO?
A7: Best practices include responding to reviews, professionally addressing concerns, and actively seeking feedback. Engaging with reviews demonstrates a commitment to customer satisfaction.

Q8: Why is mobile optimization crucial for Local SEO?
A8: Mobile optimization is critical because many users access the internet via mobile devices. Google also prioritizes mobile-friendly websites in search results, ensuring a seamless experience for mobile users.

Q9: How can businesses implement local schema markup?
A9: Implementing local schema markup involves adding structured data to a website’s HTML to provide search engines with specific business information. Following Schema.org guidelines and using relevant tools can help.

Q10: What tools can businesses use to track and analyze Local SEO performance?
A10: Tools that provide insights into website performance, search rankings, and local visibility, helping businesses assess their Local SEO efforts, like Google Analytics, Google Search Console, Moz Local, and BrightLocal.

Q11: Where can I find Online Courses to learn more about local SEO and local SEO marketing?
A11: Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and Wealthy Affiliate.

  • Udemy: Search Local SEO and Local SEO Marketing.
  • Coursera: Search Local SEO and Local SEO Marketing.
  • Wealthy Affiliate: They offer Local SEO classes within the broader training, tools, and support of teaching Affiliate Marketing.
    • (Affiliate Disclaimer: I am an affiliate of Wealthy Affiliate and base my recommendation on my positive experience as a member since 2013.).

Thank You for Reading!

Have any thoughts or questions? I’d love to hear from you.

Drop a comment or reach out directly:

Website: Marketing with Kerri 

Email:  kerri.o@marketingwithkerri.com

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Until Next Time,

Kerri

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