Geeky Tech Guy

**Introduction** Ever wondered how some websites show up in Google search results with extra links like “Download” or “Documentation” under their main listing? That clean, professional layout is called a *Google sitelink rich result*—and it can massively increase your site’s visibility and click-through rate. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to position your website to earn those coveted sitelinks. --- ## Step 1: Use Structured Data (Schema Markup) Structured data helps Google understand your site’s content and hierarchy. Focus on these three types: ### 1.1 Website Schema Add the Website structured data to your homepage. This helps Google understand your site and might show a search box under your listing. Example JSON structure: > `@type`: WebSite > `url`: your homepage > `potentialAction`: describes a search function for your site More info here: [Website structured data guide](https://developers.google.com/search/docs/appearance/structured-data/sitelinks-searchbox) ### 1.2 Breadcrumb Schema Breadcrumbs clarify your site's structure in search results. Learn more here: [Breadcrumb schema](https://developers.google.com/search/docs/appearance/structured-data/breadcrumb) ### 1.3 Page-Level Schema Use specific schema types for your content: * Blog posts → `Article` * Services → `Service` * Products → `Product` --- ## Step 2: Create a Clean, Logical Site Structure Google loves clarity. Structure your site like this: ``` example.com/ ├── /about/ ├── /services/ ├── /portfolio/ ├── /blog/ └── /contact/ ``` Best practices: * Use clean URLs (no random query strings) * Clearly organized navigation * Consistent internal links * Unique `<title>` and `<meta description>` on every page --- ## Step 3: Submit an XML Sitemap to Google Search Console This helps Google index your site structure properly. Tips: * Use SEO plugins like **Yoast SEO** or **RankMath** to generate your sitemap * Submit it via [Google Search Console](https://search.google.com/search-console/about) --- ## Step 4: Monitor with Google Search Console Once verified, regularly check: * **Search Appearance** to see structured data status * **Coverage Report** for crawl or indexing issues * **URL Inspection Tool** to reindex updated pages --- ## Step 5: Strengthen Internal Linking Pages with more internal links are more likely to show up as sitelinks. Suggestions: * Link key pages from your homepage and footer * Use descriptive anchor text * Build content clusters around services or product categories --- ## Step 6: Optimize for Brand Searches Sitelinks usually show up when people search for your brand name. Make sure: * Your brand name is consistent across your website, social profiles, and listings * Your homepage is clearly branded * You have a [Google Business Profile](https://www.google.com/business/) if you're local * You're listed on authoritative sites, directories, and relevant communities --- ## Useful Tools Here are some tools to help: * [Rich Results Test](https://search.google.com/test/rich-results) * [Schema Markup Generator](https://technicalseo.com/tools/schema-markup-generator/) * [Ahrefs Webmaster Tools](https://ahrefs.com/webmaster-tools) * [Screaming Frog SEO Spider](https://www.screamingfrog.co.uk/seo-spider/) --- **Final Thoughts** You can’t force Google to display sitelinks—but you can set the stage. With proper structured data, smart architecture, and brand consistency, you’re far more likely to earn them. Keep your site clean, updated, and intentionally structured—and those sitelinks will follow.