Fix Website Issues and Get Found: Google Search Console Guide
By Melanie Ivanova
Read it to me! Click the video below.
If you’re running a service business, your website is a key tool for attracting new leads. Yet, understanding how it performs on search engines can feel like learning another language. That’s where Google Search Console (GSC) comes in. It’s not just a fancy tool for tech experts; it’s a user-friendly powerhouse that can help you improve your website, boost visibility, and land more customers.
Your customers start their journey with a Google search, and GSC shows you how they find (or don’t find) your site. It’s like having a GPS for your online presence. Without it, you’re driving blind.
Here’s what GSC can help you with:
- Understand Your Traffic Sources: It tells you which keywords bring visitors to your site and how they interact once they’re there.
- Fix Site Issues: Spot and resolve technical issues like broken links or slow-loading pages that could hurt your ranking.
- Boost Mobile Usability: See if your site works seamlessly on mobile devices—a must-have for today’s on-the-go customers.
- Enhance Your Search Appearance: Learn how to improve your website’s titles, meta descriptions, and other features that influence click-through rates.
Don't ignore GSC:
- Low Rankings: Without insights into your keywords and pages, you can’t optimize content effectively.
- Customer Frustration: Broken links or slow pages could send potential customers to your competitors.
- Missed Leads: A site that doesn’t shine on mobile or isn’t tailored for search intent will lose clicks—and business.
Imagine losing a big client because they couldn’t navigate your site on their phone. Or missing out on dozens of leads because you didn’t know what keywords mattered most to your audience.
How to get started with GSC:
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Verify Your Website
- Set up your GSC account and verify your website ownership. Google provides step-by-step instructions for this process.
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Check Performance Metrics
- Review the "Performance" tab to see which queries drive the most traffic. Are these aligned with your business goals?
- Look at click-through rates (CTR) for underperforming pages and adjust headlines or descriptions.
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Identify and Fix Errors
- Regularly review the "Coverage" tab for technical errors. For example, if a page isn’t indexed, customers can’t find it.
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Optimize for Mobile
- Check the "Mobile Usability" report to ensure your site works well across devices. If it doesn’t, prioritize mobile-friendly fixes like resizing buttons or text.
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Track Backlinks
- Use the "Links" tab to understand which sites link to yours. Building quality backlinks can improve authority and rankings.
If you’re serious about growing your business, GSC isn’t optional—it’s essential. Dive in, follow the data, and refine your online presence. Every small tweak brings you closer to more customers and bigger profits.
