Getting found on Google
Which keywords is my website found for?
Short answer
You can see this for free in Google Search Console, under Performance and then Search results. It lists the queries your website appeared for on Google, with impressions, clicks, click-through rate and average position per query. Keyword tools such as Semrush or Ahrefs give an estimate; Search Console gives Google's own data.
Step 1: connect Search Console
Go to search.google.com/search-console, add your domain and verify ownership (usually with a DNS record at your domain provider). Data appears from the moment you connect, with a delay of a few days.
Step 2: open Performance
Open Performance, Search results. Switch on impressions, clicks, CTR and position, and choose a three-month period. The Queries tab shows search terms; the Pages tab shows which page is found.
How to read the numbers
Many impressions but few clicks: your title or description does not convince, or you rank too low. Position 8 to 20: Google finds you relevant and a better page can help you climb. Only your business name: people who do not know you yet are not finding you.
Why not every query is shown
Google hides rare queries to protect searchers' privacy. Total clicks are therefore higher than the sum of the queries shown.
From search term to enquiry
Search Console shows how people arrive, not what they do next. Also connect Google Analytics 4 with conversion tracking, so you can see which search traffic leads to an enquiry.
Frequently asked questions
Is Search Console free?
Yes. You only need a Google account and access to your domain or website.
How is it different from Google Analytics?
Search Console shows what happens on Google before the click (impressions, positions). Analytics shows what visitors do on your site after the click.
Can I see which keywords competitors rank for?
Not in Search Console. Tools such as Semrush and Ahrefs provide an estimate.
More questions about getting found on google
- What is SEO?SEO stands for search engine optimisation.
- How do I rank higher on Google?You rank higher on Google by creating a page per service that answers the search query better than the pages currently at the top, by getting the technical basics right and by being visibly trustworthy, with a complete Google Business Profile and links from relevant websites.
- Why is my website not showing up on Google?It is usually one of six causes: the site has not been indexed yet, a setting blocks Google (such as 'noindex' or robots.txt), there is no dedicated page for what you want to be found for, the content is too thin, the domain is still young, or you are searching for a term with much stronger competitors.
- How much does SEO cost?SEO costs depend on four things: the size and technical state of your website, the competition for your search terms, how much new content is needed and whether the work is one-off or ongoing.
Request a Growth Scan
Two minutes. We'll get in touch to schedule the scan and confirm what you'll receive.