Why isn't my site showing on Google?

New sites can take weeks to appear on Google, and publishing doesn't guarantee a ranking. Check your project isn't hidden, then tell Google about it with Search Console.

1. Check you haven't hidden it

If Hide from search engines is on, Google won't list your project. Click Update → Customize project → Access Settings and check it's off.

2. Add your site to Google Search Console

Google Search Console is free. It lets you:

• Submit your site to Google
• Check which pages are listed
• See any problems Google finds

Add your domain and follow Google's verification steps.

3. Submit your sitemap, if you have one

A sitemap lists every page on your site. We don't create one for you. If you built your site with Hugo, Jekyll or Next.js, look for sitemap.xml in your files and submit it in Search Console. A single page or PDF doesn't need one.

4. Give Google something to read

• A clear page title, like "Lina's Handmade Ceramics | London" rather than "Home"
• A short description
• Real text on the page, not just images
• Headings and working links
• A layout that works on phones

Empty or one-sentence pages often aren't listed.

5. Get links to your site

Google finds sites faster when other sites link to them. Add your link to your social profiles, LinkedIn, business listings and email signature.

6. Give it time

Being listed can take weeks. Ranking well for popular searches takes longer, and ongoing work.

Updated on: 10/11/2026