Why Small Businesses Are Rebelling Against Black Friday

Black Friday and Cyber Monday – two of the biggest shopping days of the year – have become synonymous with slashed prices, frenzied shopping, and big-box retailers dominating headlines. But in recent years, a growing number of small businesses have begun to step back from these mega sales events, refusing to participate or even openly rebelling against the trend. If you're a small business...
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UK Online Trends 2024: How Small Businesses Can Use Search and Social Insights to Succeed

The internet is evolving rapidly, and Ofcom’s Online Nation 2024 report is here to show us how. This comprehensive study reveals trends in search behaviour, social media use, and the online habits of UK adults. Whether you're a small business owner or a digital enthusiast, understanding these trends is essential for staying ahead. This blog will break down the key takeaways, offer actionable...
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Budget 2024: Impact on SMEs and Small Business Owners

The recent Budget announcement marked a pivotal moment—an early move by the new Government to outline their vision for progress. But how does it stand up for small businesses? It’s fair to say that the outcome could have been worse for small business owners and SME leaders, but it certainly could have been more supportive too. The Chancellor's address did include some encouraging points, and...
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Creating a Dyslexia-Friendly Workplace: A Guide for Inclusive Communication

In today’s diverse workplace, fostering an environment where everyone is included and empowered is essential. Dyslexia, a common learning difficulty affecting reading, writing, and spelling, is often overlooked in workplace accessibility efforts. By making some simple adjustments, businesses can become more inclusive to individuals with dyslexia, creating a positive impact on overall...
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Mastering Your Out-of-Office Message with our Hosting Solutions

A well-structured out-of-office (OOO) email can be a simple yet powerful way to manage client expectations while you’re away. As part of our website hosting services, O’Brien Media offers flexible email solutions with tools like Roundcube Webmail and SoGo Groupware to make your OOO setup easy and professional. Here’s how to create the perfect OOO message and how our solutions can enhance...
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Exciting News: O’Brien Media’s Office Move to Swindon’s Old Town!

We’re thrilled to announce that O’Brien Media has officially moved to newly refurbished and modernised offices in the heart of Swindon’s vibrant Old Town area! After several years based in Cheney Manor, we’ve made the decision to relocate to a new space that aligns with our values and commitment to creating a safe, secure, and inspiring working environment for our team.The move has come...
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Is Your Website Ready for Peak Season? A Comprehensive Guide

As the year progresses, every business faces a crucial question: “Is our website ready for peak season?” Whether your busiest time of year is Black Friday, the Christmas rush, or a specific period for your industry, having a website that can handle increased traffic and demand is absolutely essential. At O’Brien Media, we’ve seen the significant impact that a well-prepared website can...
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Google Expands AI-Powered Search Overviews Globally: A Game-Changer for Search Experience

Google has recently extended its AI-driven search overviews to six additional countries: the United Kingdom, India, Japan, Indonesia, Mexico, and Brazil. Initially launched in the United States, this feature uses advanced artificial intelligence to offer users concise summaries of search results, aiming to streamline the process of finding relevant information, particularly for complex queries....
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What You Need to Know About the Phone Line Switch Off: Transitioning to Digital Technology

As technology continues to advance, so too do our methods of communication. One of the most significant changes on the horizon for landline phone users in the UK is the transition from traditional copper networks to advanced digital technology. At O’Brien Media, we recognise the impact this shift can have on both businesses and individuals. In this blog post, we will explore what you need to...
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Why Small Businesses Need Their Own Website Beyond Social Media

In today’s digital world, the online presence of a small business is more crucial than ever. While platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are essential for engaging with customers and promoting your business, they should not be the sole focus of your digital strategy. A dedicated website remains a vital asset for any small business, offering benefits that social media alone cannot...
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