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Google to shut down Business Profile websites: What do you do now?
Google will shut down Business Profile websites in March 2024. If you have a business website ending with .business.site, it's time to find a new home for your online presence. Start by researching other website builders.
The last thing you want to do is fall to the bottom of the Google search results.
Look for one that suits your small business needs and budget. Many of them offer easy drag-and-drop tools to help build your site quickly.
Once you choose a platform, pick a unique domain name that stands out and fits your brand. You can use an AI domain name generator to get ideas if you're stuck. Then, transfer all the important information from your old site to the new one – things like contact details, products or services, and any customer testimonials.
Don't forget to update your Google Business Profile with the new website link after making the switch. Also let customers know about this change through social media posts or email updates so they can stay connected with what’s happening in your business.
When will Google turn off Google Business Profiles websites?
Google Business Profile websites will stop working in March 2024. Until then, your existing website will still be live. After that, if someone tries to visit your site, they'll get sent straight to your Business Profile on Google until June 10, 2024.
From June 11 onwards, anyone clicking on your site link will see a "page not found" message. It's important to act now and make sure you have a new website ready before this happens.
This way, customers can keep finding you online without any trouble.
What’s next for website owners?
With Google Business Profile free websites closing down, as website owners, we're in a position where adapting quickly is key. Let's focus on the smart strategies to secure our online presence and thrive in this new landscape.
Check your website setup
We need to take a close look at our website setup. Since Google Business Profile websites are closing, let's get things in order.
- Check if your site ends with .business.site. If it does, you'll need a new plan.
- Visit your Google Business Profile. Make sure all your business information is up-to-date.
- Look for an email or message from Google. They might have sent you details about the shutdown.
- Decide on a unique domain name for your new site. This helps customers find you easily.
- Research web hosting platforms. Pick one that fits your business needs and budget.
- Start building your new website early. Don't wait until the last minute.
- Redirect traffic from your old site to your new one before March 2024.
- Tell your customers about the change. Use email or social media to spread the word.
- Update all marketing materials, like business cards, with your new website address.
Explore new platforms
Google is closing Business Profile websites, and we need to find new places to call our online home. It’s time to pick a platform that lets us shine.
- Start by checking out Ever Studios. You can build your website for free, or we can build it for you.
- Consider WordPress for creating a website. It's popular, flexible, and filled with plugins to expand your site abilities.
- Think about an online store with Shopify if you sell products. They have tools to help you manage inventory and payments.
- Don't forget about social platforms like Facebook Pages. They can boost your online presence and connect you with your local community.
- Use Google My Business to keep our information updated on Google Maps and local search results even without the profile website.
- Leverage Hootsuite or similar tools to manage your online marketing across different social media channels effectively.
Build your new website
Building a new website might seem daunting, but we're here to help you through it. Let's get your small business shining online with a few easy steps.
- Pick a unique domain name that stands out and is easy to remember for your target audience.
- Choose a website platform or host that fits your budget and skill level – options range from user-friendly drag-and-drop builders to more complex systems requiring coding knowledge.
- Craft engaging content that highlights the benefits of your products or services; be sure to include keywords for search engine optimization (SEO).
- Design with your customer in mind; create an appealing layout that makes finding information simple and encourages them to stay longer.
- Add eye - catching images of your products or service that will grab potential customers' attention.
- Ensure that contact information, like phone numbers and email addresses, are easily accessible so customers can reach you effortlessly.
- Integrate Google Analytics to track visitor behavior on your site, helping you make informed decisions about improvements and marketing strategies.
Get ready for Google Business Profile free website changes
We need to act now before Google Business Profile websites close in March 2024. If you're using a free website from Google, start looking for new options. Think about what you want your new site to do.
Do you need it to show off products, book appointments, or just give info? Make sure it will help customers find and trust your business.
Look for platforms that are easy to use and good for search engines. You'll want something that can grow with your business too. When building the new site, pick a unique domain name that fits your brand.
Add clear info about your product or service. Also include location details so local customers can easily find you.
Let's choose wisely and make a smooth switch from our current .business.site address. We'll create an even better online spot where clients connect with us!
Connect With Ever Studios
Ever Studios is here to help you transition smoothly. We understand the importance of your online presence for your local business. Let's get your new website linked to your Google Business Profile right away.
Our team can guide you through picking a unique domain name that reflects what you offer.
Need to spread the word about your updated site? Ever Studios will show you how. We'll help craft messages for email blasts and social media posts. You can even design fresh business cards with us! Together, we'll ensure everyone knows where to find your products and services online.