DIY Blog Design Series: How to Get Your Picture in Google Search Results

You may have noticed when you do a Google Search that a photo appears next to some of the links, making the link stand out and look more professional than the rest. This is called Google Authorship Markup. Basically, it connects content to its author and improves your chances of people viewing your site.


Here is a clip from my Google Search of “DIY Pascal Halloween Costume.”


As you can see, out of over 4.4 million results I appeared first with my Google+ (and erinbettis.com) photo.The links below mine do not have the authorship markup, giving me a major leg-up over this search.

If that’s enough motivation for you to use this technique, here are 10 reasons why you should claim your Google Authorship Markup.

1. Establishes authority
2. Increases page views
3. Increases click through rates
4. It makes your link stand out
5. Professional looking
6. Increases visibility
7. Provides individuality from other similar websites or from people with the same name
8. Branding
9. Builds a community through Google+
10. Combats plagiarism

How do you add Google Authorship Markup to your content?

Well, I found two sites that explain it best.

• Google+: They offer an easy step-by-step process to add it if your domain email address matches the email address where your content is published. If it doesn’t match, I suggest:
• JM Internet Group: Jason has a fabulous tutorial  on this process, which I used myself.

Viola my friend. You have just claimed your content and you’re on your way to a more successful site. If you use Google Authorship Markup, how has it helped you?

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For more awesomeness in the DIY Blog Design Series, please visit: 

• How to Make Your Own Business Cards
• How to Put Social Media Icons in a Blogger Header
• How to Remove the Blogger Navbar
• How to Get Your Picture in Google Search Results

Erin Bettis