How to Get Your Website Indexed on Google

How to Get Your Website Indexed on Google

by | May 9, 2025 | SEO Basics

Getting your website indexed on Google means that Google has discovered your site and added it to its database. This allows your site to show up in Google search results, making it easier for people to find you online. If you’re new to this or have absolutely no idea how to get your website indexed on Google, don’t worry — I’ll walk you through it step by step

1. What Does “Indexing” Mean, and Why Is It Important?

Indexing is the process Google uses to discover your website and add it to its database so it can appear in search results. If your website isn’t indexed, no one can find it through Google, no matter how great your products or services are. That’s why getting indexed is an essential first step in putting your business online.

2. Step-by-Step Guide n How To Get Your Website Indexed On Google Indexed

Step 1: Set Up Google Search Console

Google Search Console is a free tool that helps you communicate directly with Google about your website. Here’s how to set it up:

  • Go to Google Search Console.
  • Log in with your Google account. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to create one.
  • Add your website by entering its URL (web address).
  • Verify that you own the website. Google will guide you through verifying your site. This usually involves adding a small code snippet or using your hosting provider.  Google provides clear instructions, and you can always ask your website developer or hosting support for help if needed.
a man walking on a laptop supposed to show how to get your website indexed on google

Step 2: Submit a Sitemap

A sitemap is a file that tells Google which pages exist on your website and how they are connected.

Most website builders (like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace) can automatically create a sitemap for you. Once you have your sitemap, follow these steps:

  • Go to Google Search Console.
  • Find the “Sitemaps” section.
  • Enter the link to your sitemap (usually it’s something like www.yourwebsite.com/sitemap.xml).
  • Submit it, and Google will start looking at your website.

Step 3: Make Sure Your Website Is Crawlable

Google uses automated programs called “crawlers” to explore websites. If your website has any blocks that prevent these crawlers from accessing your pages, Google won’t be able to index them. To check:

  •  Your website isn’t set to “private.” Most website builders have a setting for this.
  • Avoid using passwords or restrictions on important public pages.
  • Use Google Search Console’s “URL Inspection” tool to make sure your pages are accessible.
Creating useful content

Step 4: Create Quality Content

Google favors websites with fresh, useful content. To get your site indexed (and ranked higher in search results), try these tips:

  • Write about topics that matter to your customers. For example, if you run a bakery, you might share recipes or tips on choosing the perfect cake.
  • Use clear, descriptive headings and text so Google understands what your pages are about.
  • Add images and videos if possible, as these can make your content more engaging.

Step 5: Build Links to Your Website

When other websites link to yours, it helps Google find your website faster and understand that it’s trustworthy.

  • Share your website link on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
  • Ask other local businesses or partners to link to your site.
  • Consider creating a blog or sharing useful tips to encourage others to link to your content.

Step 6: Submit Individual Pages (Optional)

If you’ve recently added new pages to your website, you can ask Google to index them right away using Google Search Console’s “URL Inspection” tool. Simply enter the page’s address and click “Request Indexing.”

3. How Long Does It Take?

After following these steps, it might take a few days or weeks for Google to fully index your site. Be patient! You can check your progress in Google Search Console under the “Coverage” section. This will show you which pages are indexed and which ones might have issues.

Be consistent.  It’s better to write one article a week, every week rather than writing seven in the first week and don’t post for another seven weeks.

4. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not Submitting a Sitemap: This is one of the simplest and most effective ways to help Google find your website.
  • Using Too Much Jargon: Keep your website’s language simple and clear, both for your customers and for Google.
  • Neglecting Mobile Compatibility: Many people browse the internet on their phones. Make sure your website looks and works great on mobile devices.
  • Forgetting to Update Content: A website that’s regularly updated with fresh content is more likely to be indexed and rank well in search results.
common mistakes

Further Information

Click on these links to find out more and Google indexing.

And Finally...

Getting your website indexed by Google is a crucial step toward building your online presence, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these steps and focusing on creating a helpful, user-friendly website, you’ll be well on your way to reaching more customers and growing your business online.

Remember, if you’re ever unsure about something, there’s no harm in asking for help. Whether it’s a website developer, a tech-savvy friend, a professional consultant or drop me a line in the box below and I’d be happy to help.  

Happy website building!

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.

Why Having a Mobile Friendly Site Matters More Than Ever

Why Having a Mobile Friendly Site Matters More Than Ever

by | May 7, 2025 | Website Foundations

When someone talks about having a mobile friendly site, they’re simply talking about a website that looks good and works properly on a smartphone or tablet.

With more people browsing the internet on their phones than ever before, this has become absolutely essential.

If your site isn’t mobile friendly, it could look jumbled, be difficult to read, or slow to load—which means people will likely click away before they even give you a chance.

And it’s not just about user experience—Google also uses mobile friendliness as a ranking factor. So if you want your website to appear in search results, this is a big one to get right!

If your site isn’t mobile friendly, it could look jumbled, be difficult to read, or slow to load—which means people will likely click away before they even give you a chance. And it’s not just about user experience—Google also uses mobile friendliness as a ranking factor. So if you want your website to appear in search results, this is a big one to get right!

not a mobile friendly site

What Makes a Mobile Friendly Site

Here are a few things that make your website easier to use on a smaller screen:

  • Responsive design – This means your site automatically adjusts to fit the screen size.

  • Easy-to-read text – No one wants to pinch and zoom just to read a sentence.

  • Buttons that are easy to tap – Especially important on phones!

  • Quick loading speed – Mobile users don’t have time to wait.

If your site ticks these boxes, you’re on the right path to having a truly mobile friendly site.

How to Check if Your Website is Mobile Friendly

The easiest way is to use Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test tool. Just pop in your website URL, and it’ll show you how your site performs on mobile devices and what to fix if anything’s not quite right.

If you’re using WordPress, many themes are designed to be responsive right out of the box. You can also find mobile optimisation plugins to help make sure everything stays smooth. If you’re not sure where to start, platforms like Wealthy Affiliate provide beginner-friendly guidance and support for building a professional website—including making it mobile friendly.

And Finally...

If you’re building a new website or improving one you’ve already started, making it a mobile friendly site is one of the best ways to ensure visitors stick around—and come back.

It’s not just a “nice-to-have” anymore—it’s essential for connecting with today’s online audience.

How’s your site looking on mobile?

Have you run the Google test or tried a responsive theme?

I’d love to hear how you’re getting on—or if you’ve hit any snags. Drop your questions or tips in the comments. You never know, your insight might help someone else just starting their journey!

Keep Your Website Safe: Why Two-Factor Authentication Is a Must

Keep Your Website Safe: Why Two-Factor Authentication Is a Must

by | May 5, 2025 | Website Foundations

Learning how to keep your website safe is something we all need to do, especially in today’s world where cyber threats are constantly popping up.

One of the simplest and most effective ways to boost your website security is by using two-factor authentication—often called 2FA. It’s like adding a second lock to your front door. In this post,

I’ll walk you through why it matters, how it works, and how you can get it up and running.

two factor authentification

What Is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)?

Two-factor authentication is a simple but powerful way to keep your website safe. When you log in, you first enter your password (the first factor), and then you verify your identity a second way—maybe by entering a code sent to your phone or scanning your fingerprint (the second factor). It’s that extra layer of protection that stops unwanted visitors in their tracks.

Why is this so important? 

Passwords alone just aren’t enough anymore. Hackers are clever, and they’re getting better every day. With 2FA, even if someone guesses or steals your password, they still need that second piece of info to get in.

Why You Need 2FA to Keep Your Website Safe

Adding two-factor authentication isn’t just for big businesses or tech experts. It’s for anyone who wants to keep their website safe. Whether you’re running a personal blog or managing a business site, your content, data, and user information are valuable—and worth protecting.

Here’s why 2FA is such a game-changer:

  • It reduces the risk of unauthorised access, even if someone gets hold of your password.
  • It boosts trust. When visitors see you’re taking security seriously, they’re more likely to feel safe using your site.
  • It’s becoming the norm. Industries like banking and healthcare already use it, and more and more online platforms are following suit.

And let’s be honest—no one wants their site hacked. It’s not just about lost data; it’s about your reputation too.

Different Types of Two-Factor Authentication

You’ve probably already used 2FA without even realising it. Here are a few common methods:

  • Text messages (SMS): A code is sent to your mobile phone.
  • Authentication apps: Apps like Google Authenticator or Authy generate time-based codes.
  • Biometric methods: Fingerprints or facial recognition—easy and secure.

Each method has its pros and cons, but all of them will help keep your website safe.

keep your website safe

How to Add 2FA to Your Website

Adding two-factor authentication to your site might sound complicated, but most platforms make it really simple. For example:

  • WordPress users can install plugins like Two-Factor or Google Authenticator.
  • Platforms like Shopify and Squarespace often have built-in 2FA settings you can turn on.

Here are a few tips to get it running smoothly:

  1. Choose the right 2FA method for your users.
  2. Communicate clearly. Let your users know why you’re doing this and how it benefits them.
  3. Offer help. Some people might not be familiar with 2FA, so having a short guide or FAQ page can be really helpful.

Keep Your Website Safe with Regular Maintenance

Once you’ve added 2FA, your job isn’t quite done. Here’s how to keep your website safe long term:

  • Check regularly that everything is working.
  • Update plugins and systems to avoid vulnerabilities.
  • Monitor login activity. Use tools or plugins to spot anything suspicious.
  • Support your users. Make sure they know where to turn if something goes wrong.

Security is never a “set it and forget it” task. It’s more like tending a garden—check in often and keep things tidy.

And Finally…

If you want to keep your website safe, two-factor authentication is a brilliant step in the right direction. It’s easy to set up, tough for hackers to beat, and shows your visitors you care about their security.

If you’re brand new to building websites and don’t know where to start, I always recommend Wealthy Affiliate. They offer step-by-step training (including how to secure your site) in a very beginner-friendly way.

For more information on how to keep your website safe, have a look at these links:-

Have you set up 2FA on your site yet? If not, what’s holding you back? And if you have, how did it go?

I’d love to hear about your experience. Pop your thoughts or questions in the comments—it might help someone else who’s just getting started.

What Is Metadata And Why Should You Care?

What Is Metadata And Why Should You Care?

by | May 2, 2025 | Website Foundations

What is metadata? It might sound a little techy, but chances are you come across metadata every single day—whether you realise it or not. From websites and emails to your phone’s photo album, metadata is quietly working behind the scenes to keep everything organised and searchable.

Let’s walk through exactly what metadata is, where you’ll find it, and why it’s so important—especially if you’re building your own website.

What Is Metadata?

Metadata is information about other information. Sounds strange? Don’t worry—here’s a simple example:

Let’s say you snap a photo on your phone. The image is your data, but things like the time, date, location, and even the camera settings? That’s metadata. It helps sort, label, and make sense of files behind the scenes.

On websites, metadata helps search engines understand what a page is about. In music, it helps you find the artist, album, or track length. And in your emails? It’s what shows who sent it, when, and what the subject is—all thanks to metadata.

Showing what is metadata

In short, metadata gives context to your content—helping systems (and people) understand what it is and how to use it.

Different Types of Metadata (In plain English!)

You don’t need to be an expert to understand that there are a few different types of metadata. Let’s break them down:

  • Descriptive Metadata – This tells you the who, what, when, and where of a file. It’s great for finding things. Imagine looking for a blog post by date or an image by title—descriptive metadata helps with that.

  • Structural Metadata – Sounds fancy, but it just shows how things are arranged. Think of chapters in a book or slides in a presentation. It shows what fits where.

  • Administrative Metadata – This is all the techy stuff, like file types, permissions, or when something was last changed. It’s useful for keeping everything working and secure.

How Metadata Shows Up in Everyday Life

Once you know what metadata is, you’ll start spotting it everywhere. Here are a few everyday examples:

  • Music Apps – Ever noticed how your playlist knows the artist, album, and track length? That’s all metadata.

  • Photos – You might not see it, but most photos have hidden info like the date, location, and camera settings.

  • Emails – The sender, recipient, subject line, and time sent? That’s metadata too.

  • Documents – Metadata tracks who created it, when it was last edited, and even how many versions exist.

So, even if you’re not a techy person, metadata is quietly helping you every day.

The Critical Role of Metadata in the Digital Age

Now let’s get to why metadata really matters—especially if you’re building a website or learning about digital content.

  1. Finding Things Quickly
     Metadata helps you stay organised. With so much information floating around online, metadata is what lets search engines—and people—find exactly what they need, quickly.

2. Website SEO and Discoverability
 If you’re starting a blog or website, metadata helps search engines like Google understand what your page is about. Adding good titles, descriptions, and keywords (aka metadata!) makes it easier for your site to be found.

security and metadata
  1. Privacy and Security
     This bit is really important: some metadata can reveal more than you expect—like where a photo was taken. It’s good to know what kind of info your files carry and how to protect it, especially when sharing online.
  2. Systems That Talk to Each Other
     In tech-speak, this is called “interoperability” (bit of a mouthful, I know). It just means different platforms and systems can understand each other, and metadata makes that possible. It keeps your content readable and usable, no matter where it goes.

    Why You Should Care About Metadata: The Benefits

    • Better Search Results
       Whether you’re searching on Google or organising your own website, metadata helps surface the most useful and relevant content.

    • Personalised Experiences
       Streaming platforms or online shops recommend things based on metadata. It’s how your Netflix queue knows you love feel-good dramas!

    • Smarter Business Decisions
       If you’re running a business or online store, metadata can help track what’s working and what needs improving. It’s data that helps you understand your customers better.

    wealthy affiliate going up

    And Finally…

    So, what is metadata? It’s the invisible glue that helps your online world make sense.

    Understanding what metadata is doesn’t need to be complicated—and now you’ve got a solid grasp on the basics! Whether you’re uploading photos, writing blog posts, or building your first website, knowing how metadata works gives you an edge.

    It keeps your content discoverable, helps you stay organised, and even protects your digital footprint. 

    Have you come across metadata before but didn’t realise what it was? Or are you just starting to notice it in your own content?


    Pop your questions or thoughts in the comments—I’d love to know how you’re getting on. And if you’re just starting your website journey, you might find Wealthy Affiliate a helpful place to learn the ropes without the overwhelm.

    Quick Tips to Improve Your Website’s Design

    Quick Tips to Improve Your Website’s Design

    by | Apr 30, 2025 | SEO Basics, Website Foundations

    When you’re building your website, first impressions count. Visitors decide in seconds whether they’ll stay or go, so it’s essential to make sure your homepage welcomes them in the best possible way.

    A simple, tidy design invites curiosity and keeps people around longer, while a cluttered page might drive them away. But don’t worry, designing a great website doesn’t have to be hard.

    Let’s walk through some easy, beginner-friendly tips to improve your website’s design

    1. Keep It Clean and Simple

    It’s tempting to add lots of features, but simplicity is often the best approach.

    A neat, uncluttered design makes it easier for visitors to find what they need without feeling overwhelmed.

    Aim for a simple layout with clear headings and space between sections. This will make your site easier to navigate and more inviting to your visitors. Remember, less is often more!

    This is one of the most effective tips to improve your website’s design..

    Images showing difference between a cluttered and clean look website

    2. Make Sure Your Site Is Easy to Navigate

    Your website’s navigation is like a map that helps people find their way around. Make sure the menus are clear and straightforward. Visitors should be able to find what they’re looking for in just a few clicks. Avoid complicated menus with lots of subcategories. Instead, keep it simple—think of it like a map of your favourite café, where everything is easy to find.

    Also, don’t forget about mobile optimisation. More people are browsing on their phones these days, so your site needs to look just as good on a small screen. If it doesn’t, those visitors won’t stick around.

    Improving navigation is one of the key tips to improve your website’s design.

    3. Pay Attention to Visual Hierarchy

    Visual hierarchy sounds fancy, but it’s just about guiding your visitors’ eyes to the most important parts of your site first. This means making sure your headlines stand out and your call-to-action buttons (like “Sign Up” or “Learn More”) are easy to spot. A strong headline is like a friendly handshake—it sets the tone for everything that follows.

    To help your visitors understand what to do next, make sure your buttons or links are easy to spot. A great headline and clear CTAs will encourage your visitors to keep exploring your site.

    4. Use Colours, Fonts, and Images Wisely

    Colours, fonts, and images play a huge role in how your site looks and one of the quickest tips to improve your website’s design.. Here’s how to use them effectively:

    • Colours: Choose a colour scheme that fits your brand and is easy on the eyes. Too many colours can make your site feel chaotic, so stick to a simple palette that complements your content.
    • Fonts: Your fonts should be easy to read. Stick to a couple of fonts that match your brand’s style, and avoid using too many different ones. Make sure the text size is large enough for everyone to read comfortably.
    • Images: High-quality images can make your site more attractive, but be careful not to overdo it. Too many images can slow your site down. Choose pictures that support your content and help tell your story. And remember, optimise your images so they load quickly!

    5. Make Your Site Accessible to Everyone

    It’s important to make sure your website is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. This means adding things like alternative text for images (so screen readers can describe them), and making sure people can navigate your site using just a keyboard if needed. These small steps make a big difference in how many people can use your site, and they show that you care about all of your visitors.

    tips to improve your website's design including accessibility

    6. Include Interactive Features

    Interactive elements on your site can keep visitors engaged. This could be things like a chatbot that answers common questions, or animations that add a bit of life to your pages. But be careful not to go overboard—these features should enhance the experience, not overwhelm your visitors. If you make the experience more enjoyable, your visitors are more likely to stay longer and engage with your content.

    7. Prioritise Fast Load Times

    Nobody likes waiting for a website to load, so speed is crucial. If your website takes too long to open, visitors will probably leave before they even get the chance to explore. To improve speed, make sure your images are optimised and avoid adding unnecessary features that might slow things down. A fast-loading website helps improve your users’ experience and also boosts your rankings on search engines.

    8. Test Your Site

    It’s a good idea to test your website before it goes live. Ask friends or family to try out the site and see if they can find what they need. Get feedback on the layout, navigation, and design.

    If something isn’t working, make changes before you launch your site to the public. This can save you time and help you avoid mistakes that might frustrate users later on.

    Testing website

    9. Make Sure Your Calls to Action (CTAs) Stand Out

    A call to action (CTA) is any button or link that encourages users to take the next step, like signing up for your newsletter or checking out a product. Make sure your CTAs are clear and easy to find. They should be visually distinct, with a strong, action-oriented message. CTAs like “Get Started” or “Learn More” give users a clear direction and guide them through the next steps.

    This is one of the most practical tips to improve your website’s design

    10. Keep It Updated

    Your website shouldn’t be a “set it and forget it” project. Keep your content fresh and update your site regularly. Whether it’s adding new blog posts, updating product details, or changing outdated images, an updated site shows your visitors that you’re active and engaged. Plus, search engines like Google prefer websites that are regularly updated, which can help improve your rankings.

    More info on tips to improve your website's design

    W3C’s Introduction to Web Accessibility

    https://pagespeed.web.dev

     

    If you’re looking for extra support and beginner-friendly website training, I recommend checking out Wealthy Affiliate — it’s where I learned many of these skills and found a supportive community along the way.

    And Finally…

    Improving your website’s design doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these simple tips—keeping things clean and simple, focusing on user experience, and making sure your site is accessible—you can create a website that both looks great and works well.

    What part of website design do you find most challenging? Do you have any design tips you’d like to share with others? Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments below!

    Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.