Telecoms Lessons from Going Viral on LinkedIn

Earlier in July, one of our LinkedIn posts about the telecoms industry went viral.

It started with a simple “calling out” of our frustration at the poor treatment of customers by some telecom brands. The ones that tie customers into telecoms contracts lasting five to seven years, often with misleading break clauses and hidden catches.

We see too many businesses tied into deals that don’t serve them. Contracts that lock them in far beyond what is reasonable, with penalties buried in the small print.

The response was instant.

The post resonated with business owners nationwide.

Comments flooded in, each with a variation of the same story: aggressive sales tactics, unclear contract terms, and a lack of accountability. Some were still in contracts they hadn’t realised would auto-renew. Others only discovered the real cost when they tried to leave.

It didn’t just resonate with the audience I expected. The post caught the attention of investigative journalists at the BBC who were already looking at this problem.

It was proof that the problem wasn’t isolated, which is staggering considering how long this has been going on for.

Lessons from Going Viral

The attention was nice. But what mattered more was the problem it highlighted within the telecoms industry. Here are a few things we were reminded of by the post

Negativity Drives Engagement

People don’t rush to applaud good service. But shine a light on bad practice and the floodgates open. This post worked because it voiced frustration others were already feeling. It gave them something to agree with, add to, or share.

This Isn’t a Niche Problem

The volume of responses made one thing clear: misleading telecoms contracts are still happening across the UK. Not old horror stories, these were current ones. Regulation hasn’t stamped this out. It’s still widespread, especially among SMEs.

You Never Know Who’s Watching

It wasn’t just comments from business owners. Behind the scenes, journalists, regulators, and competitors were watching. Going viral doesn’t just create noise it creates visibility, often from people who don’t comment but are still paying attention. 

Why The Post Matters

Telecoms contracts should be simple: fair terms, transparent pricing, and flexibility where it counts. But that’s still not the reality for many UK businesses.

Despite tighter regulations, the same tactics persist.

Sales reps offering “free” hardware that locks you into five-year terms. Contracts with break clauses that look reasonable—until you try to use them. Terms buried in fine print that make early exits expensive or impossible.

The worst part?

It’s often legal. The problem isn’t just bad behaviour. It’s that the system still allows it.

Most small businesses don’t have legal teams reviewing these documents. They rely on trust or assume regulation protects them. But unless you know what to look for, it’s easy to sign something that becomes a financial anchor.

And for many, it’s only when they try to leave that the real cost is revealed.

What Businesses Should Watch For

Clear contracts should be the minimum standard and not the exception.

Given the popularity of the post, it is worth highlighting the red flags you should look out for before signing a telecoms contract.

Contracts Longer Than 24 Months

Any term beyond two years should raise questions.

What’s the reason for the length? Is there flexibility? Long terms usually benefit the supplier, not you.

Vague or Hidden Break Clauses

Some contracts say they’re cancellable, until you try. Look for specifics: when can you leave, what notice is required, and what penalties apply?

‘Free’ Hardware or Installations

Nothing’s free. That router, phone system, or install is usually built into a long-term agreement. Break the contract early, and you’ll be charged full price for the “free” item, which you have probably already paid for several times over.

Auto-Renewal Without Warning

Some contracts roll into another full term if you don’t cancel within a narrow window. Make sure renewal terms are clear—and get reminders in your calendar.

Complex or Bundled Charges

Watch for hidden costs: bolt-ons, usage fees, support charges, and bundled services you didn’t ask for. Ask for a breakdown of exactly what you’re paying for.

How To Keep Your Business Safe From Telecoms Predators

One LinkedIn post won’t transform an industry overnight.

But it can shine a light on widespread issues and start conversations where they matter with suppliers, regulators and fellow business owners.

If you’re about to sign or renew a telecoms contract:

• Read every clause as if your business depends on it (because it does)
• Ask for plain-English explanations of any term you don’t understand
• Schedule reminders well before auto-renewal windows
• Consider seeking specialist advice if the numbers don’t stack up
• Use our free contract analyser on ChatGPT

Transparency should be the norm. Until then, keep asking questions, share your experiences, and demand better.

Telecoms contracts don’t need to be a trap.