What Should You Do?

While this is a fairly quick timeline in terms of announcing the shut down of a service like this, you should have plenty of time to make the switch to set yourself up for success.

Step 1: Create Your New Business Website

With sites coming to an end in March and redirects only working for approx. 3 months after that, it's  important to prioritize designing your website on another site builder. You can either take this project on as a DIY using site templates through wix.com, Squarespace, Wordpress or others. Alternatively, you can hire a professional web designer in your local area.

Pros and Cons of DIY Website Creation

Creating a website on your own can be a cost-effective and customizable venture, but it does come with its challenges.

Pros:

1. Cost-Effective: Opting for DIY website creation often comes with lower upfront costs compared to hiring a professional web designer. Site builders like Wix and Squarespace offer affordable plans that fit various budgets.
2. Complete Control: You have the freedom to tweak every aspect of your site and make it truly your own. You can experiment with layouts, colors, and content without having to communicate or negotiate with a third party.
3. Flexibility: Most site builders are user-friendly and allow for modifications at any time. You can continually update your website as your business evolves without additional costs.

Cons:

1. Time-Consuming: Building a website from scratch can be time-intensive, especially if you're not familiar with the process. This could result in time taken away from running your business.
2. Limited Design Skills: Without a background in web design, your site may lack the professional aesthetic and functionality that a skilled designer could offer.
3. SEO Knowledge: A well-optimized website for search engines is crucial for online visibility. Without knowledge of SEO best practices, your DIY website might not rank as well in search results.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Web Designer

Hiring a professional web designer can provide a host of advantages that can potentially outweigh the cost. Here are some compelling reasons for considering a professional for your web design needs:

1. Professional Expertise and Creativity: Web designers possess both the technical know-how and the creative flair to bring your vision to life. They understand what works and what doesn't, and they can create a site that not only looks great but also functions seamlessly.
2. Time-Saving: With a professional handling your website creation, you can devote more time to running your business. The web designer will take care of everything, from the layout to the content and everything in between.
3. SEO Optimization: A professional web designer understands the importance of SEO and will build your site with this in mind. They can help ensure your website ranks higher in search engine results, increasing your visibility and potential customer reach.
4. Ongoing Support and Maintenance: Many professional web designers provide ongoing support and maintenance services. This means that your website will always be up-to-date, relevant and in line with the latest design trends and technological advancements.
5. Higher Quality Design: A professional web designer can provide a higher quality design compared to DIY site builders. They can create a unique, customised design that helps your business stand out from the competition.

Hiring a professional web designer in 2024 may be more affordable than you think.  Most developers offer affordable payment options and packages that can fit various budgets.

Step 2: Update Google Profile & Online Profiles with New Website Domain

Once you've launched your new site, make sure you update your Google Business Profile with the new domain. This will ensure that potential customers are directed to your website when they click on your Google Business Profile from search engine results or maps. If you leave the old google profile site URL after the redirect period, it will lead customers to a "page not found" error.  Make sure to also update any other online profiles and social media profiles, such as facebook, Instagram, as well as online directories, with your new website domain. This will help maintain a consistent online presence and avoid confusion for potential customers.

Embracing the Future: The End of Google Profile Sites Unveils New Horizons for Online Success

While this may be the end of the road for  Google Profile sites, it doesn't mark the end of your online success. With this change, comes the opportunity to create a more professional, customized and optimized website that can help take your business to new heights. Whether you choose to go the DIY route or hire a professional web designer, taking action now will ensure a smooth transition and continued growth in the ever-evolving digital world.  Note: Most local website designers take 4-6 weeks to complete a full website redesign so don't wait until the last minute to make the switch. Embrace this change and use it as an opportunity to elevate your online presence and reach a wider audience with a new, improved website.