How to Add a User to Google Search Console

Google Search Console (GSC) is an essential tool for webmasters and SEO professionals. It provides insights into your website’s performance, including search traffic and indexing status. Sharing access to your GSC account with team members or SEO experts allows them to manage and analyze your website's data effectively. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to add a user to Google Search Console.

Step 1: Log in to Google Search Console

First, log in to your Google Search Console account at Google Search Console. Use the credentials associated with your website’s GSC account.

Step 2: Select the Property

Once logged in, you'll see a list of properties (websites) associated with your account. Select the property (website) to which you want to add a user. If you have multiple properties, ensure you choose the correct one.

Step 3: Open the Settings Menu

In the left-hand navigation pane, scroll down and click on the "Settings" option. This will open the settings page for the selected property.

Step 4: Navigate to Users and Permissions

On the settings page, find and click on "Users and permissions." This section allows you to manage who has access to your GSC property.

Step 5: Add a New User

In the "Users and permissions" section, click on the blue "Add user" button located in the top right corner. This will open the "Add a new user" dialog box.

Step 6: Enter the User’s Email Address

Enter the email address of the person you want to add to your GSC account. Ensure the email address is associated with a Google account to avoid any access issues.

Step 7: Choose the User’s Role

Google Search Console offers two roles: Full and Restricted.

• Full: Users with full access can view all data and take most actions, including adding and removing users.
• Restricted: Users with restricted access can view most data but have limited abilities to make changes.

Select the appropriate role based on the level of access the new user requires.

Step 8: Send Invitation

After entering the email address and selecting the role, click the "Add" button to send the invitation. The new user will receive an email notification inviting them to access your GSC property.

Managing Users in Google Search Console

You can manage user permissions at any time by returning to the "Users and permissions" section in your GSC account settings. Here, you can modify user roles or remove users as needed.

Best Practices for Adding Users to Google Search Console

1. Limit Access to Necessary Roles Only grant the level of access necessary for each user's role. Restrict full access to trusted team members to maintain control over your GSC property.
2. Regularly Review User Access Periodically review who has access to your GSC account. Remove access for individuals who no longer need it to ensure the security of your website data.
3. Educate Users Ensure that users understand their responsibilities and the best practices for using Google Search Console. Proper training can help prevent accidental changes or mismanagement.
4. Monitor Activity Regularly monitor the activity within your GSC account. Keep an eye on any significant changes or unusual activity to quickly address any potential issues.

Conclusion

Adding a user to Google Search Console is a straightforward process that enables collaboration and effective website management. By following these steps, you can ensure that the right people have access to your GSC property, allowing for better analysis and optimization of your website's performance. Regularly review and update user permissions to maintain control and security over your GSC account.