How to set up Google Search Console (The quick version)
We really love Google Search Console (GSC). Like a lot.
If you don’t believe us, take a look at this blog where we poured out our hearts.
So now we’re going to run you through how to set it up, yourself.
It’s a pretty quick process, provided you have everything you need to get going. Here’s our checklist:
You need a Google account
You need to know your website domain (e.g. https://wwww.levi-loves-lamp.com)
Got your ducks in a row? Fab.
Step one: Login to your google account
First things first, make sure you’re logged into your Google account. It sounds simple, and it is.
Step two: Go to Google Search Console’s website
Head to the Google Search Console website. Follow all their prompts until you come across the button ‘Add a property’. This is your golden ticket.
Step Three: choose a property type
A property in Google Search Console land is either a domain or a URL-prefix that you’d like to create an account for.
A domain property would be using our fave website ‘www.levi-loves-lamp.com’.
A URL-prefix property would be if we wanted to focus on just one section, sub-domain or folder within the website. For example ‘www.levi-loves-lamp.com/umbrellas’.
There are different instances where you may find using one type of property over another is preferable. Read more about the different types of properties on Google Search Console help.
Step Four: Add Your Property
Now you know which property type makes the most sense in your situation, it’s time to add it. Simply click ‘Add Property’ > enter the URL > click ‘Continue’.
All been pretty straight-forward so far, right?
Step Five: Verify your property
Now, we apologise in advance if after reading this next step, you feel like we’ve lured you in under false pre-tenses that setting up Google Search Console is easy breezy… this next bit can get a little technical, but it is ESSENTIAL. It’s also the last step so bare with us.
Why do you need to verify your site?
Verifying your site proves to Google that you’re the real deal. That you are going to use all the information they share with you well, and that you have authority to be receiving all the free data they’ll send you.
How do I do the verification?
Like we said, it can get a little technical. So we think you should hear it straight from the horse’s mouth. Learn how to do the verification step according to Google.
Step Six: Sit back, relax, and watch the data come rolling in
Once your site has been successfully verified, it’ll become pretty obvious because Google will begin collecting all the glorious data you’ve been dying to see.
What are people actually typing into Google to find your website?
Where on the SERP (search engine results page) are Google currently placing your pages?
It’s all the juicy bits that Google Analytics just can’t quite seem to tell you.
Q. Did you manage to follow these steps okay?
a. “Yes - thank you oh wise one”.
b. “Yes - but I didn’t need you, I already had this”.
c. “No - I need more help”
If you answered ‘C’, don’t worry. We’ve got you. Use our contact form and we’ll get back to you asap.