Attention Business Owners:

Google is shutting down your Business Profile website. Here’s what you need to know.

Google has announced that websites using a Google Business Profile will be deactivated this year.

The basic websites powered by the user’s Business Profile will be switched off in March 2024, with customers visiting the site to be redirected to their Business Profile instead. 

The redirect will work until June 10, 2024. After that date customers will get a “page not found’ error when attempting to visit your website.

Google has said: 

Domains ending with business.site and negocio.site will be removed from the website field on your Business Profile in March. 

Google recommends that you update your Google Business Profile to point to a new website.

I use a Google Business Profile website.

What should I do next?

If you are being affected by the new changes, it is best to prepare for the transition to a new website.

Here are some essential steps that small business owners should take:

1. Select A New Approach

Explore other web hosting options that align with the goals and challenges you currently face. Take into account factors like cost, feasibility and how it might impact your business. You might even want to think about hiring a website designer that provides a hosting service to ensure you never had to worry about losing your website again.

2. Update Your Online Presence

Once a new website is design, ensure that you update your Google Business Profile but also other platforms, including social media accounts, so they display the new website address. This should be done before March 1, 2024 to ensure a smooth transition to your new site.

3. Adjust Your Campaigns

If you are currently running any paid ads or campaigns that are linked to your Google Business Profile website, make sure to change the website address to avoid disruptions. Alternatively, you can pause your campaigns until a new website is created. Why not take this time to reflect on your strategies moving forward?

4. Communicate With Your Customer

Don’t send your customers to the wrong place! Keep your customers in the loop about any changes made to your website through social media, email newsletters and customer support. Consider asking them for feedback on your original website and what changes they would like to see in the future.

Find out more about your Google Business Profile being turned off, visit the Google website here.