In March 2024, Google is closing its platform for free business websites (those ending in business.site). Many small business owners relied on this service to have a basic web presence for their business. Here’s an easy guide to help you seamlessly transition through this change, even if you’re not tech savvy.

Understanding the Transition

- Google business sites will officially close on March 1, 2024.

- Your business.site website will automatically redirect to the associated business profile page (Google business listing).This auto-redirection will last until June 10, 2024.

What to Do Right Away

1. Ensure your Google business profile is complete and up-to-date. In addition to your basic business information, be sure to include your hours, services, products, and service areas.

2. Enhance your business listing by adding relevant photos, videos and setting up messaging, calls or booking links as appropriate.

3. If you own your own domain (like mybusiness.com) pointing to your Google site, consider redirecting that domain to a social profile, your Google Business Listing, or a new website if that fits your needs.

Do You Need a New Website?

While having a business website is common even for the smallest companies - and can be a powerful tool for growing your business - it’s not always necessary. Ask yourself:

* Where do your current customers find you? Online, recommendations from friends, social media?

* What does your ideal customer’s online behavior look like? Do they spend time on specific social media sites? Do they search for reviews before visiting or calling?

* What does your sales process look like? Do you need to spend time educating your customers or building trust in your product or services?

Building and maintaining a website takes time and money. Consider your current social media platforms as an alternative to a full website or explore social landing page services. They create one-page sites with links to all your online platforms and range from free to about $50 per month.

If having your own website better aligns with your business needs, think about the long term. Free or low cost options may save you money, but could cost you valuable time with tech issues or limit your capability to scale up in the future. Consider your overall business plans and goals and work backward to see what you need.

Need help navigating these changes? Local small business consultant & Madison County Chamber member Rachel Martinez of BizGeek Solutions can help. Rachel works with you to come up with custom solutions on a “Pay What you Want” model, making expert advice accessible to businesses at all stages. Visit  www.AskBizGeek.com to learn more or get started.