Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When You Convert GoDaddy Website to WordPress

Migrating your website from GoDaddy to WordPress can significantly improve flexibility, performance, and scalability. However, the process can be tricky, and mistakes can lead to downtime, lost data, or SEO penalties. To ensure a smooth GoDaddy to WordPress migration, avoid these common pitfalls.

1. Not Backing Up Your Original Website

Mistake: Skipping a full backup before migration.
Why It’s Bad: If something goes wrong, you could lose critical data.
Solution:

• Use GoDaddy’s backup tools to save your files and database.
• Store backups in multiple locations (cloud, local drive, etc.).

2. Ignoring SEO During Migration

Mistake: Forgetting to set up 301 redirects or update internal links.
Why It’s Bad: Broken links hurt SEO rankings and user experience.
Solution:

• Map old URLs to new WordPress URLs using 301 redirects.
• Use plugins like Redirection or Yoast SEO to manage redirects.
• Update internal links manually or with a search-and-replace tool.

3. Choosing the Wrong Hosting for WordPress

Mistake: Sticking with GoDaddy’s basic hosting after migration.
Why It’s Bad: WordPress performs best on optimized hosting (e.g., WP Engine, Hostinger, Kinsta).
Solution:

• Migrate to a WordPress-optimized hosting provider for better speed and security.
• Ensure your new host supports PHP 8+, MySQL, and SSL.

4. Overlooking Website Design & Functionality

Mistake: Assuming the design will automatically transfer.
Why It’s Bad: GoDaddy’s builder templates don’t convert directly to WordPress.
Solution:

• Pick a WordPress theme that matches your brand.
• Rebuild key pages (homepage, contact forms, etc.) using Elementor or Gutenberg.
• Test all functionalities (forms, checkout, menus) post-migration.

5. Skipping Post-Migration Testing

Mistake: Assuming everything works fine after migration.
Why It’s Bad: Hidden errors can affect user experience and SEO.
Solution:

• Check for broken links (use Screaming Frog or Broken Link Checker).
• Test mobile responsiveness (Google Mobile-Friendly Test).
• Verify SSL, page speed (GTmetrix), and database integrity.