Investor relations professionals wear many hats. On any given day they could be financial storytellers, relationship builders, communications specialists or event organizers. It’s a role that continues to grow and change alongside the investment landscape.
With so many priorities at hand, how can IR professionals deliver exceptional investor experiences to the stakeholders that matter most? Here are four quick tips.
1. Prioritize relationship building
A successful investor relations function is built on a foundation of strong relationships. Therefore, an open and steady line of communication between your business and your investors is key.
Relationship building takes time, so IROs must prioritize engaging with stakeholders throughout the financial year, rather than just when is convenient. Be on hand to answer questions and reach out periodically with updates that keep the dialogue going.
Ultimately, remember that trust is earned and the role of IR is to facilitate this.
2. Embrace IR event technology
Earnings calls, investor days and quarterly catch-ups act as all-important touchpoints in the financial calendar for management to engage and communicate with investors. As such, the aim of these events should always be to increase investor engagement and participation.
To deliver exceptional meeting experiences that promote accessibility and transparency, consider using the hybrid meeting format, which can increase reach and help ensure parity of experience for stakeholders that decide to attend either in person or virtually.
During the day, aim to keep your attendees engaged in creative ways by playing pre-recorded videos during the presentations or conducting polls. You could even use a meeting technology partner to bolster hybrid events with features such as a facility that allows virtual participants to ask questions to the board via video in real time during the meeting.
3. Execute faultless Q&A sessions
The Q&A session represents a golden opportunity for your senior leadership team to convey the equity story of the business, as well as field and answer questions honestly and concisely.
To pull off a seamless Q&A session at your next investor day or earnings call, involve as many voices from the business as you can, rather than those solely from the C-suite. In the face of difficult or sensitive questions, remember that demonstrating authenticity in the answers your representatives provide is key, so brief your speakers accordingly.
Finally, holding a mock Q&A is essential for ironing out any kinks before the day, as well as streamlining the communication of your business’ key messages.
4. Promote trust with ESG reporting
As with the Q&A, truth and transparency are king when it comes to ESG reporting. Successful reporting means more than just showcasing positive outcomes to investors. It’s about communicating meaningful and relevant progress to stakeholders, even if that means addressing your organization’s shortcomings.
Use your business’ ESG report to set out your ESG roadmap clearly, as well as to outline the company story, signposting your aspirations and being truthful about where you are right at that moment. Set out realistic KPIs and goals and stick to the facts.
Explore more from Lumi Global
For more expert advice from award-winning IR industry voices, read our guide to investor relations here. Inside you’ll find insights on building your investor relations strategy, as well as tips for holding effective IR meetings and accurate ESG reporting.
