Google just announced that Google Business Profile websites will be taken down in March 2024. This means that the basic websites powered by the information provided in your Business Profile will no longer function in coming months, resulting in a “page not found” error when visitors try to open your website.
This decision by Google raises concerns about the short period for businesses without an independent website to adapt. To keep their online presence, affected businesses must look for alternative website development services.
When will Google switch off the Google Business Profiles websites?
Here are the two important dates to keep in mind:
March 2024
Starting March, websites created using Google Business Profiles will be deactivated. And customers attempting to access your website will be redirected to your associated Google Business Profile.
June 10, 2024
After June 10, all redirection services will be shut down. So, when your visitors try to access your website made with Google My Business, Google Business Profile, or Google Maps, they will encounter a ‘page not found’ error instead of your associated Google Business Profile.
What should you do?
Google Business Profile websites have long been the go-to for many entrepreneurs and small businesses looking for a basic online platform that is integrated with Google. Now, with this development, website owners must adjust quickly and plan their next steps.
Here’s an easy step-by-step guide on what to do after the change:
Step 1: Check your website’s setup.
Determine whether your company uses a Google Business Profile website. A clear clue is if your website’s address ends in .business.site or .negocio.site. If it does, get ready for the changeover. If you are unsure whether you are affected by this change, contact the website experts at UENI at help@ueni.com with the subject line Google Sites and a link to your current website. An advisor will get in touch with you.
Step 2: Explore new platforms.
Google suggests evaluating other platforms. Look for simple website builders that will allow you to build a new online presence. If you have free time and plenty of technical skills, you might want to consider WordPress. On the other hand, if you’re good at design and copywriting and have time to put it all together, Wix could be a contender for you.
However, if you’re a busy business owner, you generally won’t have time for all of this. In this case, your best option is to choose a Done-For-You solution like UENI. Learn more about it here.
Step 3: Create your new website.
Once you’ve found the right platform, you can begin building your new website. Take advantage of this opportunity to improve your internet presence and interact with your target audience.
With UENI, you get the ultimate website service: multipage mobile-friendly design, SEO copywriting, secure hosting, a custom domain name and email, e-commerce, appointment functionality, 0% commissions on your sales and bookings, an easy-to-use website editor, and world-class human support.
So forget the hassle of do-it-yourself website builders or weeks of back and forth with an expensive agency and get started with UENI today. UENI is integrated with your Google Business Profile so you can display your Google Reviews on your UENI website, respond to your reviews from your UENI Business Hub, and even invite customers to leave a Google Review for you in just a few clicks.
Step 4: Update your Google Business Profile.
Make sure your Google Business Profile reflects the changes. Update your business details to include the new website link so that customers can easily discover you online.
Step 5: Communicate the changes to your customers.
Keep your customers informed about the planned adjustments. Send out emails, use social media, or obtain new business cards containing information about your new website. This enables a seamless transition for both you and your consumers.
Prepare for Google Business Profile free website changes.
This announcement has left many small business owners and entrepreneurs concerned about the future of their internet presence. While adjusting to this transition may take some time, it also provides an opportunity to improve your online presence with a website tailored to your specific requirements.
By starting this process now, you are not only ensuring a smooth transition for your company but also putting yourself ahead of the competition.
