Why you need a Google Account (and how to set one up for free!)

If you own a website or a blog, you NEED a Google Account.

Now, I understand that it’s more than likely that you already have a Google Account because it is required to access so many tools and social media platforms online. But if you don’t have one, and you are wondering why you need one, then keep on reading.

In short, a Google Account is a user account that can be used to access and authorise many of Google’s online services.

In this post, I’m going to show you how to set up your own Google Account and talk about the benefits of having an account.

How do I set up a Google Account?

To create a Google Account, head over to the Google Account sign up page.

Here you will find a simple form that you need to fill in to create your account.

When it comes to choosing a username, you can either use an email address you already have or if you want to have your very own Gmail email address (which I highly recommend) you will be able to set this up here.

Once you’ve filled in all your details, click “Next step” and then agree to the terms and conditions.

And that’s it! Your account is set up and you’re ready to go.

Why do I need a Google Account?

Here are some of the applications and tools that require a Google Account…

Gmail

Gmail is Google’s email service. Personally, I think it’s the simplest email client to use and it comes with lots of additional features like the ability to set up canned responses, and being able to add events directly from an email in your Google Calendar.

Speaking of which…

Google Calendar

For many, many years, I used a paper-based diary to plan out and organise my life. But now I can’t live without my Google Calendar! It’s a free online calendar that is simple to use and that can be easily connected to your phone for access on the go.

Google Drive

Google Drive is a file storage system. It also has it’s own office suite, much like Microsoft Office. This includes Google Doc, Google Sheets and Google Slides. Although these apps are much more basic than their Microsoft equivalent, they’re pretty good considering they’re free!

Google Analytics

Google Analytics is by far the most superior website analytics tool I have ever used. All you have to do is log into Google Analytics with your Google Account details, add your website, add the tracking code to your website and voila!

Learn how to set up a Google Analytics account and connect it to your website here.

Google AdSense

AdSense is Google’s advertising program. It provides an easy way for you to earn money by simply placing adverts on your website. The adverts will be targeted towards your audience and can work on a per-click or per-impression basis.

Learn how to set up a Google AdSense account and add adverts to your website here.

Google Search Console

Previously know as Google Webmasters, Google Search Console is a tool that helps you to optimise your website for Google’s search engine. Once you add your website to the search console you will be able to submit a site index, see what keywords are driving traffic to your site, find out how to improve the SEO of your website, and so much more.

Learn how to set up Google Search Console and verify your website here.

YouTube

If you have plans to create video content and host it on YouTube, you will need a Google Account. While you don’t need an account to watch YouTube videos, you will need one if you want to like or comment on a video.

And more…

Blogger, Google Hangouts, Google AdWords, Google Wallet, Google Finance, Google Photos, Google Keep, G-Suite, Google Play Store – the list goes on!

Do you have a Google account? If not, are you planning on creating one?

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