Google Search Console (GSC) is an indispensable tool for webmasters, providing insights into your website’s visibility and performance in Google search.
Managing access to this tool is crucial for teams, ensuring that the right members have the appropriate permissions to perform their roles effectively. If you’re working with Australian Internet Advertising or managing a site’s SEO and need to grant access to GSC, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here are the detailed steps to add a user to your Google Search Console account, ensuring they have the necessary access to collaborate on managing your site’s search performance.
1. Log in to Google Search Console
Begin by navigating to Google Search Console and log in with the Google account that owns the website property you wish to share. This account should be the verified owner to allow you to manage users and permissions effectively.
2. Choose the correct property you want to share
Once logged in, select the appropriate website property from the drop-down menu at the top-left corner of the screen. Ensure you choose the property for which you intend to manage access.
Please note: Sharing domain property is recommended for SEO analysis purposes. Click here to find the difference between domain property and URL property.
3. Open the Settings menu
Locate and click on the “Settings” link, typically found at the bottom of the left-side navigation bar and this will direct you to various configuration options for your selected property.
4. Access the Users and Permissions settings
Within the Settings menu, find and select the “Users and permissions” option. This area allows you to view the current user list and manage access levels.
5. Add a user
To add a new user, click on the blue “Add User” button located at the top-right of the Users and Permissions section. This will open a new window or modal where you can enter user details.
6. Enter user details and set permissions
In the Add User interface, input the email address of the new user—make sure this is a valid Google Account. Select the desired level of access from the options available, which include full user and restricted user permissions. Once done, click the “Add” button to finalise the addition.
Understanding User Roles and Permissions in Google Search Console
Owner: The highest level of access, Owners have full control over all settings, including the ability to add and remove other users, configure settings, and manage property settings. A property must always have at least one verified owner.
Full User: Full users have access to all data and can take some actions, but they cannot add new users or modify the property’s critical settings.
Restricted User: These users can view most data but have limited access to certain sensitive or critical settings.
Associate: Associates are users linked to specific functionalities or features without full access to the property’s data. They might be granted permission to manage certain types of tags, apps, or other integrations associated with the website. Associates can be particularly useful in collaborative environments where external partners or agencies need specific access that does not require full user capabilities.
Each role is designed to ensure that team members have the access they need to perform their tasks without compromising the security or integrity of your website data.
By carefully managing who has access to your Google Search Console data and understanding the permissions each role entails, you can maintain better control over your site’s search engine optimisation efforts and safeguard sensitive information.
Remember, a properly managed Search Console account not only facilitates smoother operations but also enhances the security and effectiveness of your SEO strategies.
Need help with your online visibility? Get in touch with experienced SEO experts from Australian Internet Advertising today.
