Social media has become an increasingly important tool for UK small businesses over the past 20 years, but use has increased significantly in the last five years. Platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok allow businesses to promote products, communicate with customers, build brand awareness and compete with larger companies without needing a large marketing budget.
When done well, using social media for business can generate great returns. A July 2026 survey of UK small-business owners and tradespeople by Markel Direct, conducted by Censuswide, found:
84% of business survey respondents say they generate some business through social media.
63% say posting content has directly contributed to business income.
68% believe social media provides value for the time and resources invested.
Timing is crucial when posting for business on social media. Getting your timing spot-on can deliver the results you need. Post at the wrong time and you can literally be wasting your time and money. Our main feature this week explains the best time for businesses to post on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. We also provide some tips on using social media for business.
