In the past, having a website through Google was a simple process. It took your business information from your Google Business Profile(GBP – formerly, Google My Business), and turned it into a basic website. Nothing fancy, but it got the job done. Coming March 1, 2024, Google is shutting down all websites made through this process.
Google is focusing on streamlining its services and they’ve decided to discontinue Business Profile websites. If your website domain ends in .business.site or negocio.site, this impacts you.
My Website Spot is here to guide you through this transition. We’ll discuss the changes, why they matter, and most importantly, how you can smoothly transition to a new website setup before the deadline. If you’re looking for guaranteed hosting, development, and security for your new website, feel free to contact My Website Spot for a free consultation.
What does Google say about closing Google Business sites?
When Google pulls the plug on GBP-generated sites anyone trying to visit your website will be sent straight to your Business Profile. Your Business Profile will stay intact and you can still use it to showcase your business, share updates, and connect with customers.
However, the redirect from your former website to your GBP will only last until June 10, 2024. If you’ve got a custom domain name sending folks to your Business Profile website, they’ll get rerouted there too. After that, if you haven’t made a new website, your visitors will be met with “page not found.”
To avoid this, Google suggests you update your GBP to point to a new website. To update your GBP to direct users to your new site, log into your hosting account and look for a “Redirect” option. Enter your new website domain here. That way, when folks come looking for your site, they’ll land on your new web space.
If you have Ad campaigns connected to your website, you’ll need to update these to link to your new website before March 1, 2024. That’s the date to keep them running smoothly. If you don’t or won’t have a new website by then, you can always put your ads on pause until you’re good to go.
How to transfer your Google Business Profile website
If you’re shopping for a new website platform, we suggest that you adopt a systematic approach that aligns with your business goals. Take the time to clearly define your website’s objectives. Have answers for questions like
- What will you use your website for?
- How will users interact with your website?
- How frequently will you be updating your website?
Whether you aim to create an e-commerce site, a blog, a portfolio, or an informational hub, having a precise understanding of your needs will steer you in the right direction. Consider the level of customization you want for your website, your budget constraints, and your target audience’s preferences.
This information will help your new designer break down the amount of work, how long it will take, and provide you with an estimated project timeline and cost.
This is where you need to conduct thorough research. Explore the available website building platforms in the market. Do you want to use a template site that you build yourself? Are you looking for a customized website with specialized functionalities? A web design company may suit your current needs and future development better.
Assess your options against your predetermined criteria. Pay attention to ease of use, scalability, SEO capabilities, and security features. Look through user reviews, case studies, and testimonials to understand how these platforms or companies perform. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the platform providers, asking questions to clarify any doubts you may have.
Ultimately, a methodical approach will give you the information you need to make a decision that meets your current needs and supports your future growth and success. Check out our list of essential considerations before transferring your website for a smooth and successful transition.
The My Website Spot Solution
Time is of the essence. Don’t wait until the last minute to make the switch. Contact My Website Spot today and let us guide you through this transition. We have the experience to overcome Google’s updates, design websites that stand the test of time, and support your business as it grows and thrives.
We specialize in hosting, development, and security for websites, and we’re here to make your transition as smooth as possible. Remember, March 2024 is just around the corner, so act now to secure your place in the digital landscape. Say goodbye to Google Business Profile websites, and say hello to a brighter online future with My Website Spot!
