How to Transition from the Google Sites for Business
Change is on the horizon as the Google sites for Business will be shut down in March 2024. The decision by Google to discontinue their free service will impact many businesses relying on this platform for an affordable web presence. Currently, there are millions of these websites worldwide built from their Google Business Profiles.
Digital platforms and tools are constantly evolving, what is free today rarely stays free. Also, companies choose to change their offerings often. Staying informed about changes affecting our online presence is crucial for us, and any business owner using these services.
At CyberCletch, we understand the need to navigate these changes smoothly and are dedicated to providing solutions that not only address your immediate concerns, but also support your business’s future growth and autonomy.
Understanding the Google sites for Business Shut Down
Google announced that websites made with Google Business Profiles will be turned off in March 2024. If you’ve been relying on Google for your business site, your customers will be redirected to your business’s profile until June 10, 2024. After June 10th, they will encounter a “page not found” error. This change places you at a crucial juncture where you have an opportunity to not only reassess, but also revitalize your online strategy. Doing so, will ensure your company remains visible and accessible to your audience.
Preparing for the Website Transition
For businesses facing this change, the first step is updating your Google Business Profile to link to a new website. If you’ve been using your Google site for Business with your advertising, you’ll need to update your ads to link to a different website before March 1, 2024. This will avoid interruptions in your advertising. For those with custom domains redirecting to a Google Business Site, it’s crucial to adjust these settings through your hosting provider to ensure traffic is directed to your new site effectively.
To do before the Google sites for Business Shut Down:
- Update Business Profiles: Ensure your profile points to your new website.
- Ads Campaigns: Update your ads to link to the new site before March 1, 2024.
- Custom Domains: Use the “Redirect” feature to point your domain to a new website.
At this juncture, you might be contemplating your options for a new website. While there are numerous paths you could take, it’s vital to consider the long-term implications of your choice:
- Free Services: Opting for another free service might seem appealing, but it’s worth asking, “Could I find myself in a similar situation again?” The risk of service discontinuation and the limitations on customization and ownership are significant factors to weigh.
- Paid Platforms (Wix, Squarespace, etc.): These services offer user-friendly interfaces and quick setup options. However, they come with ongoing monthly costs, potential learning curves for DIY site building, or additional expenses to hire a developer. Moreover, you don’t truly own your site, and terms of service or fee structures change, affecting your budget and control over your site.
- Building Your Own Site: Initially, this route might involve a more significant upfront investment, especially if you’re aiming for a custom-designed site. However, the long-term benefits are substantial. You’ll own your site outright, enjoy the freedom to choose or change your hosting provider, and have a website that can adapt and grow with your business. After the initial setup, your primary ongoing cost is hosting, providing a clear advantage in terms of both financial planning and site autonomy.
These considerations are crucial as you plan your move away from the Google sites for Business. Choosing the right path is about balancing immediate needs with long-term goals, ensuring your web presence is both robust and adaptable.
Better Solutions
At CyberCletch, we’re stepping in to offer a seamless transition away from the Google sites for Business at a low expense.
Free One-page WordPress Site with Paid Hosting
Our special offer includes a free one-page copy of your Google Business Site using WordPress when you opt for a year of hosting with us. This package is designed to empower business owners, providing a robust foundation for your online presence that includes:
- A fully functional WordPress site at no additional cost.
- Comprehensive hosting services ensuring reliability and speed.
- The choice to improve or expand the site with ease in the future
Your replacement website will be online quickly. At a minimum, you just need a screenshot of the old one so we can duplicate the information.
Elevate your Website at a Discount:
For businesses looking to further elevate their online identity, we offer an upgraded WordPress site package at $399/mo. Payments will continue for a year from the date of publishing and then you own the website outright.
This package includes branding, a custom logo, and ten professionally designed pages, with hosting and monthly maintenance included. After the first year, the only ongoing cost is for hosting and security maintenance. This approach offers business owners a site they exclusively own, are proud of and is capable of scaling with their growth.
Why Choose WordPress?
WordPress offers unparalleled flexibility and ownership compared to the Google sites for Business. It allows for extensive customization, ensuring your website accurately reflects your brand. More importantly, it will scale with your business. As your business grows, your site can too! CyberCletch specializes in supporting business owners using WordPress, offering expertise and personalized support tailored to your unique needs.
Conclusion
The discontinuation of the Google sites for business marks a pivotal moment to reassess and strengthen your online presence. By choosing a platform that offers growth, autonomy, and potential support of a dedicated team, you’re not just adapting; you’re seizing an opportunity to thrive. Let’s embark on this journey together, to ensure your business stands out and succeeds online.
Let us Help you overcome the Google sites for Business Shut Down
Don’t wait until it’s too late to update your online presence. Contact CyberCletch today to explore the options for your business. If our services aren’t right for you, we promise to point you in the direction of one that will work. Together, we can find a website solution that not only meets your current needs but also grows with you into the future.
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