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One In 10 Small Business Owners Spend Up To A Full Working Day On Social Media



A new study by Markel Direct, the small business insurance specialists, has revealed the growing expectations many UK tradespeople and small business owners feel to maintain an active social media presence alongside running their business.


The study, which asked 501 UK small business owners and tradespeople how they use social media to market their business, revealed the hidden workload that comes with trying to stay visible online. More than three quarters (76%) spend time every week creating or editing social media content. For most, that means an additional one to three hours of work every week (54%), while more than one in ten (11%) spend up to a full working day each week managing their online presence.


The findings build on a previous study by Markel Direct, which looked into overworking among the self-employed. It discovered that more than half (57%) regularly work beyond their normal hours, while 40% said they feel pressure to remain reachable outside working hours, and 57% admitted to working through illness.


Running a business now means running social media too: half feel stressed to stay visible online

The findings suggest many small business owners are effectively becoming self-taught social media marketers alongside running their actual business. More than two-thirds (69%) have never hired anyone to create content on their behalf, while 65% say they have never received any social media training.

Despite this, many still feel an increasing responsibility to stay active online. More than half (55%) say they feel pressure to create content regularly, while nearly three-quarters (73%) believe customers now expect businesses to be active on social media. At the same time, nearly two-thirds (63%) say they struggle to stand out from competitors online.


The study also highlighted that for some small business owners, maintaining an online presence is also causing a negative impact. Nearly a quarter (24%) say they have experienced negative comments online, while one in four (25%) have deleted or edited posts following criticism.


The fear of negative reactions is also affecting confidence online, with nearly four in ten (38%) saying they have held back from posting due to fear of backlash. Among younger entrepreneurs aged 18–24, more than half say fear of negative reactions has stopped posting online.

Social media drives growth, but raises legal concerns

Social media is a clear growth driver for small businesses, and many owners are aware of the responsibilities that come with posting content online – however, the study revealed significant gaps remain when it comes to protection and preparedness.


The research found that only 39% have insurance in place to cover legal action relating to issues such as copyright infringement or breaches of confidentiality linked to their social media activity. In contrast, nearly half (47%) say they do not have this type of protection, while a further 8% are unsure whether they are covered.


Despite the potential consequences, some businesses continue to share client work online without following clear processes. Nearly one in five (19%) admit they do not always obtain client permission before posting images or videos of completed work on social media.


Worryingly, more than a quarter (28%) say they would not know what steps to take if a client raised a legal concern about content they had shared online.


Rob Rees, Divisional Director at Markel Direct, said:

"Social media has become one of the most powerful ways for small businesses to showcase their expertise and attract new customers, but many business owners don't realise that the same rules around consent, copyright and confidentiality apply online as they do offline."

"Many entrepreneurs have effectively become marketers overnight, often without formal training or dedicated support. Taking a few simple steps, such as obtaining written permission before sharing client projects and understanding what insurance protections are available, can help reduce the risk of disputes further down the line."


To read the full study, visit the Markel Direct website.


Please note: This article provides guidance for information purposes only. It should not be relied upon wholly when making or taking important business decisions – always seek the services of an appropriately qualified professional.

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  • Dec 5, 2023
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The festive song, 'The 12 Days of Christmas' is a popular the world over, but it carries a deeper significance than many people may realise. Beyond its catchy melody and whimsical lyrics, this song has historical and cultural significance that dates back centuries. So what is the meaning and origins of the 12 Days of Christmas and how it has evolved over time.


Historical Origins

The concept of the 12 Days of Christmas can be traced back to Christian traditions. These twelve days are said to start on December 25th and continue until January 5th, culminating in the feast of the Epiphany on January 6th. The Epiphany commemorates the visit of the Three Wise Men, or Magi, to the infant Jesus. Each of the 12 days represents one of the Magi's journey to Bethlehem.


Religious Significance

During these 12 days, Christians reflect on the story of the Nativity and the birth of Jesus Christ. It's a time for spiritual contemplation and a reminder of the central message of Christianity: the birth of the Saviour. The song 'The 12 Days of Christmas' was, in fact, a mnemonic device for teaching religious concepts during a time when openly practicing the Christian faith was prohibited in some regions.


Symbolism In The Song

The song itself is filled with symbolism:

  • Partridge in a pear tree: Represents Jesus Christ as the partridge is known to protect its young with its own life, symbolising Christ's sacrifice.

  • Two turtle doves: Symbolise the Old and New Testaments.

  • Three French hens: Represent faith, hope, and love.

  • Four calling birds: Traditionally, these represented the four Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

  • Five golden rings: Symbolise the first five books of the Old Testament, known as the Torah.

  • Six geese a-laying: Represent the six days of creation.

  • Seven swans a-swimming: Symbolise the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit.

  • Eight maids a-milking: Represent the eight Beatitudes.

  • Nine ladies dancing: Symbolise the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit.

  • Ten lords a-leaping: Traditionally, these represent the Ten Commandments.

  • Eleven pipers piping: Symbolise the eleven faithful apostles.

  • Twelve drummers drumming: Represent the twelve points of the Apostles' Creed.

Modern Interpretations

Today, 'The 12 Days of Christmas' is often seen as a fun and festive holiday song, with many people unaware of its deep religious roots and symbolism. It has become a secular part of Christmas celebrations, often associated with gift-giving and merriment.


So in reality, 'The 12 Days of Christmas' is more than just a catchy tune; it carries a rich history and deep religious symbolism. While it has evolved into a secular holiday song, it's essential to remember its origins and the significance it holds for those who celebrate the Christian faith.
Whether you view it as a joyful song or a religious teaching tool, the 12 Days of Christmas continues to be a meaningful part of the holiday season for many around the world.

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