Google Search Console: Optimise your website's performance
Google Search Console (GSC) is a powerful free tool provided by Google that allows website owners to monitor, maintain, and troubleshoot their website's presence in Google Search results. It provides invaluable data and insights into how Google sees your site, helping you identify and fix technical errors, improve your site's visibility, and understand how users are finding and interacting with your content.
What to look for in a Google Search Console freelancer
When hiring a GSC freelancer, look for demonstrable experience in using the platform to achieve tangible results. A strong candidate should possess a deep understanding of key GSC features and be able to translate data into actionable strategies.
Key skills to look for include:
- Proven experience using Google Search Console
- Strong analytical skills and data interpretation
- Knowledge of SEO best practices
- Excellent communication and reporting skills
- Experience with other SEO tools (e.g., Google Analytics, SEMrush, Ahrefs)
Main expertise areas within Google Search Console
Technical SEO
A freelancer proficient in technical SEO within GSC can identify and fix crawl errors, broken links, indexing issues, and other technical problems that hinder your site's performance. They can also help optimise your site's structure and improve page speed.
Keyword analysis and optimisation
Understanding which keywords your site ranks for and which keywords users are searching for is crucial for driving organic traffic. A GSC expert can analyse search queries, identify opportunities for keyword optimisation, and track keyword performance.
Content optimisation
GSC provides insights into which content is performing well and which content needs improvement. A freelancer can use this data to optimise existing content, identify content gaps, and develop a content strategy that aligns with user search intent.
Mobile usability
With the increasing importance of mobile search, ensuring your site is mobile-friendly is essential. A GSC freelancer can identify and fix mobile usability issues, ensuring a positive user experience on all devices.
Relevant interview questions
- Can you describe your experience using Google Search Console to improve a website's organic search performance?
- How do you use GSC to identify and fix technical SEO issues?
- What are some key metrics you track in GSC and why?
- How would you use GSC to improve a website's content strategy?
- Describe a time you used GSC to identify and solve a specific problem for a client.
Tips for shortlisting candidates
- Review portfolios and case studies showcasing successful GSC projects.
- Look for candidates who can clearly articulate their process and demonstrate a data-driven approach to SEO.
- Ask for specific examples of how they have used GSC to achieve results for previous clients.
Potential red flags to watch out for
- A lack of demonstrable experience with GSC
- Overpromising unrealistic results
- An inability to explain GSC concepts clearly
- A candidate who focuses solely on rankings rather than overall website performance
Typical complementary skills
GSC expertise often complements other digital marketing skills such as:
- SEO (Search Engine Optimisation)
- Content marketing
- Google Analytics
- Web development
Benefits of hiring a Google Search Console freelancer
Hiring a skilled GSC freelancer can help you:
- Improve your website's visibility in Google search results
- Identify and fix technical SEO issues
- Optimise your content for better user engagement
- Increase organic traffic to your website
- Gain a deeper understanding of your website's performance
- Stay ahead of the competition in the search landscape
By leveraging the power of Google Search Console, a skilled freelancer can help you achieve your online marketing goals and drive sustainable growth for your business.
