Google Business Profile Websites Will Soon Be Turned Off By Google

Google Business Profile v.s. Google My Business

First, let’s address some housekeeping matters. In late 2021, Google underwent rebranding and renamed its business directory from Google My Business (GMB) to Google Business Profile (GBP). Currently, GMB and GBP have a similar interface and functionality; only the name has changed. However, in the future, we can anticipate the retirement of certain GMB features and the expansion of others under GBP.

For now, we can use GMB and GBP interchangeably. Both refer to Google’s business directory, which presents specific search results in an expanded format, including additional details such as business hours and reviews. When using a desktop, these results are typically displayed on the right-hand side of the screen, as shown below. On mobile devices, they are usually positioned at the top of the page. Below is how our GBP displays on a search results page.

Does Your Business Use a Google Business Profile Website?

If your business utilizes a Google Business Profile Website as its only website, things are going to change real soon. In a significant development for businesses relying on Google Business Profile websites, Google has announced that these websites will soon be deactivated, impacting their online visibility. Starting from March 2024, websites created using Google Business Profiles will no longer be accessible to customers, with visitors being redirected to the respective Business Profiles instead. However, Google will only forward the “business.site” and “negocio.site” web addresses to the Google Business Profile until June 10, 2024. Below is an example of these types of websites.

While this change may seem unsettling, it is crucial for businesses to understand the implications and take necessary steps to maintain their online presence. Below we will discuss how businesses can navigate this transition and ensure their continued success in the digital realm. In this discussion, we will explore the potential impact on small businesses, alternative options for maintaining online visibility, strategies for effective customer engagement post-shutdown, and the importance of adapting to the changing digital landscape.

Key Takeaways

• Websites made with Google Business Profiles will be turned off in March 2024.
• Domains ending with business.site and negocio.site will be removed from the website field on the Business Profile.
• Customers visiting the website will be redirected to the Business Profile instead, but only until June 10, 2024.
• To continue having a website, consider creating a new website using other tools and updating the Business Profile with the new website address (URL).

Implications for Small Businesses Using The Google Business Profile Websites

The transition from Google Business Profile websites to redirecting customers to the Business Profile itself will have significant implications for small businesses. While the Business Profile will remain unaffected, small businesses will need to update their profiles to point it to a new website. It is important to note that it will no longer be possible to have website domains ending with business.site and negocio.site.

For small businesses that currently rely on Google Business Profile websites, this transition may require them to create new websites using other methods. It will also be necessary to update the Google Business Profile with the new website address. Additionally, small businesses that have ads campaigns connected to their Google Business Profile websites should update their ads to link to a different website before March 1, 2024, to ensure the campaigns continue running smoothly.

Furthermore, for businesses using custom domain names to forward traffic to their Google Business Profile websites, it is crucial to note that these domains will also be redirected to the Business Profile. Therefore, small businesses need to take the necessary steps to forward their third-party domains to a different website before June 10, 2024.

Impact on Businesses and Online Visibility

The removal of Google Business Profile websites and the redirection of visitors to Business Profiles will have a significant impact on businesses’ online visibility and digital presence. With the removal of these websites, businesses will no longer have a dedicated online space to showcase their products, services, and brand identity. Instead, customers will be directed to the Business Profile, which offers limited customization options.

This shift will particularly affect small businesses that have heavily relied on their Google Business Profile websites for online visibility. These websites provided an opportunity for businesses to establish their online presence and attract potential customers through search engine optimization. Without a dedicated website, businesses may struggle to stand out among competitors and reach a wider audience.

Furthermore, the redirection to Business Profiles may limit businesses’ ability to provide detailed information about their offerings or showcase their unique selling points. The lack of customization options on the Business Profile platform may hinder businesses’ ability to effectively communicate their brand story and value proposition.

To mitigate the impact of this change, businesses are advised to explore alternative website options. Creating a new website will allow businesses to maintain their online visibility and provide a more comprehensive and personalized user experience. It is crucial for businesses to adapt to these changes promptly to ensure their continued online success.

Ensuring Effective Customer Engagement Post-Shutdown

With the impending shutdown of Google Business Profile websites, businesses need to find alternative ways to engage with their customers and maintain their online presence. One effective strategy is to focus on optimizing their Google Business Profile. This includes regularly updating important information, sharing relevant updates and links to social platforms, and utilizing eye-catching photos to attract customers. Additionally, businesses should encourage customer engagement by providing clear contact information and enabling messaging options.

Furthermore, businesses should manage their ads campaigns by updating the ads to link to a different website before March 1, 2024, or pausing the campaigns if necessary. If businesses are using third-party domains to forward traffic to their Google Business Profile website, they should redirect these domains to a different website before June 10, 2024, to ensure a smooth transition for customers.

Importance of Online Presence

With the impending shutdown of Google Business Profile websites, businesses must recognize the vital role of maintaining a strong online presence. In today’s digital age, having an online presence is crucial for businesses to reach and engage with their target audience. Studies show that 97% of consumers search for local businesses online, and 85% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. Having a well-designed website and an optimized online profile increases a business’s visibility and credibility.

An effective online presence allows businesses to showcase their products or services, provide important information, and engage with customers through various channels such as social media platforms and email marketing. It also enables businesses to attract new customers, build brand loyalty, and stay ahead of their competitors.

Potential Solutions for Lead Generation

One effective approach for generating leads is by leveraging various digital marketing strategies and channels.

Here are three potential solutions that can help businesses generate leads in the absence of Google Business Profile websites:

1. Optimize your Business Profile: Ensure that your Business Profile on Google is fully optimized with accurate and up-to-date information about your business. This includes adding relevant keywords, images, and contact details to attract potential customers.
2. Utilize social media platforms: Create a strong social media presence on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Share engaging content, interact with your audience, and use targeted advertising to reach potential leads.
3. Invest in paid advertising: Consider investing in paid advertising campaigns on platforms like Google Ads, Facebook Ads, or LinkedIn Ads. These platforms offer sophisticated targeting options that can help you reach your desired audience and generate quality leads.

Adapting to the Changing Digital Landscape

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, businesses must adapt their strategies to stay relevant and effectively reach their target audience. One significant change that businesses need to consider is the upcoming turning off of Google Business Profile websites by Google. Starting from March 2024, websites made with Google Business Profiles will be turned off, and visitors will be redirected to the Business Profile instead. This redirect will be in effect until June 10, 2024. To adapt to this change, businesses should update their Google Business Profiles to point to a new website.

It is crucial to note that customers will only be redirected to the Business Profile until June 10, 2024. After that date, they will encounter a ‘page not found’ error when trying to visit the old website. Therefore, businesses should consider creating a new website and updating their Business Profile accordingly.

Adapting to the changing digital landscape requires businesses to stay proactive and embrace new technologies and platforms that enable them to connect with their target audience effectively. By staying informed and making the necessary adjustments, businesses can continue to thrive in the ever-evolving digital world.

Steps to Transition From Google Business Profile Websites

To successfully transition from Google Business Profile websites, businesses should proactively update their online presence with a new website using alternative site builders or platforms. Here are three important steps to consider:

1. Create a new website on another platform: There are several options available, such as Wix, Squarespace, Shopify, and WordPress. Evaluate each platform’s features, pricing, and ease of use to find the best fit for your business. At Dynamic Web Shop, we also offer custom business websites for businesses going through this change.
2. Update your Google Business Profile: Make sure to point your profile to your new website. This will ensure that customers are redirected to your new online presence.
3. Update your advertising campaigns: If you’re running ads connected to your Google Business Profile website, update them to link to your new website before March 1, 2024. This will ensure your ads continue to drive traffic to your business.

Future Implications for Local Search and Business Listings

The transition away from Google Business Profile websites will have significant implications for local search and business listings. With the upcoming removal of websites made with Google Business Profiles, businesses will need to adapt their online presence to continue reaching local customers effectively.

One immediate consequence is that customers visiting these websites will be redirected to the corresponding Business Profile instead. This redirection will be in effect until June 10, 2024. However, after this date, customers attempting to access the website will encounter a ‘page not found’ error. Therefore, businesses must consider alternative options to maintain an online presence beyond this deadline.

Creating a new website using other tools such as Wix, Squarespace, Shopify, or WordPress is recommended. Once the new website is established, it is essential to update the Business Profile with the new website address. This ensures that customers can easily find and engage with your business.

Furthermore, businesses utilizing a website made with a Google Business Profile for their Ads campaigns should update their ads to link to a different website before March 1, 2024, to prevent disruptions in advertising efforts. If businesses are using custom domain names to forward traffic to their Google Business Profile website, these domains also need to be redirected to the new website before June 10, 2024.

If you need assistance in creating a new website, redirecting your Google Business Profile, or any other tasks related to the discontinuance of the Google Business Profile Websites, please reach out to our office right away so your business is not left hanging in outer webspace. Ask about our special going on right now to help businesses transition their web presence from a Google Business Profile Website to a domain of your own that will not go away on someone else’s whim. Just go to the contact form and select the help you want, which is “Transition from a Google Business Profile Website.” We can help you through this challenge!