IR AND PR DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS
Are you wondering what IR and PR activities to do this summer? Everyone says summer is quiet and no one is around, but while your competitors dial down the news flow and outreach, consider this as an opportunity for YOU to stay on top.
No one takes 2 months off, especially in the capital markets. Investment advisors and portfolio managers are always staring at their computers and phones and arguably have more time on their hands given the summer lull. And, the media is often starved for stories during the summer. Make sure you keep your e-blast, blog and social media posting cadence the same as during the rest of the year.
Here are some tips for connecting with the investment community and media during July and August:
Send notes to your top investors to say, “Hope you’re having a great summer, here’s what we’ve been up to…let’s catch up!”
Pick up the phone to reach portfolio managers – make calls, or schedule webinars or in-person presentations/discussions
Issue meaningful news that will grab attention
Create focused content: highlight your competitive advantages, show how trends are playing in your favour, or focus on customer, production and /or sales statistics
Pitch the media with a story that has a novel or interesting angle
Make your own PR opportunities – sponsor or volunteer for a charity that is aligned with your mission and let the world know about it
Here are some other practical summer activities:
Create new videos: a Q&A with the CEO or other executives, or update investors on new features with your product or services, or explain why prospects should invest in your company
Freshen up your IR website content and investor deck
Write and distribute deeper content dives like whitepapers
Review your CRM lists to ensure you are reaching only those who want to, or can, receive your emails
By keeping communications active during the summer, you’ll show your investors, vendors, and other stakeholders that you’re working hard to stay successful no matter the time of year.
