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	<title>Q4 Blog</title>
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	<description>Q4 Blog - Investor Relations, Social Media, IR websites, IR 2.0, XBRL</description>
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		<title>IR Blog Series: Part 2 of 2: Best Practice Examples of IR Blogs</title>
		<link>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/05/11/ir-blog-series-part-2-of-2-best-practice-examples-of-ir-blogs/</link>
		<comments>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/05/11/ir-blog-series-part-2-of-2-best-practice-examples-of-ir-blogs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 11 May 2012 18:22:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sheryl Joyce</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Best Practices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Social Media]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[IR 2.0]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.q4blog.com/?p=6287</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In the first part of this IR blog series, we provided some suggestions for incorporating an IR blog into your communications mix.  In this post (based on our research), we will discuss what sectors and size of companies (based on their market cap) are the most prevalent users of IR blogs, and what country has the highest adoption rates. We will also include what we consider some best practice examples of companies who use IR blogs to help tell their investment story.
Sector, Market Cap and Country
Technology companies are the most ...


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2012/05/04/ir-blog-series-part-1-of-2-steps-for-implementing-an-ir-blog/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: IR Blog Series: Part 1 of 2: Steps for Implementing an IR Blog'>IR Blog Series: Part 1 of 2: Steps for Implementing an IR Blog</a> <small>Since 2009, we have conducted research of how public companies...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/08/31/potashcorp-the-makings-of-a-best-practice-ir-website-part-2/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: PotashCorp: The Makings of a Best Practice IR Website &#8211; Part 2'>PotashCorp: The Makings of a Best Practice IR Website &#8211; Part 2</a> <small>This is the second part of an interview I conducted...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2012/04/27/niris-best-practices-for-online-web-disclosure-blogs-and-forums-and-social-media/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: NIRI&#8217;s Best practices for online web disclosure, blogs and forums and social media'>NIRI&#8217;s Best practices for online web disclosure, blogs and forums and social media</a> <small>The National Investor Relations Institute (NIRI) has just released its...</small></li></ol>

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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IRblogs1.png"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-6307" style="margin-left: 6px; margin-right: 6px;" title="IRblogs" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IRblogs1.png" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/2012/05/04/ir-blog-series-part-1-of-2-steps-for-implementing-an-ir-blog/">In the first part of this IR blog series</a>, we provided some suggestions for incorporating an IR blog into your communications mix.  In this post (based on our research), we will discuss what sectors and size of companies (based on their market cap) are the most prevalent users of IR blogs, and what country has the highest adoption rates. We will also include what we consider some best practice examples of companies who use IR blogs to help tell their investment story.</p>
<p><strong>Sector, Market Cap and Country</strong></p>
<p>Technology companies are the most prevalent users of IR blogs followed by the services sector. Companies in the U.S. are the most dominant users of blogs for investor-related material, with Canada next, closely followed by Europe. Small cap companies use blogs for investor-related material most frequently, followed by large cap and then mid cap companies.</p>
<p>Our research has largely found greater use of social media for IR in the U.S., although it should be noted that our sample includes a large percentage of U.S. companies.</p>
<p>Of the companies in our study, we found the majority is using IR blogs to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Provide insight into news, industry developments and the company – not just regurgitating information in press releases or other company materials.</li>
<li>Compile questions solicited from shareholders (in most cases) in advance of a quarterly earnings call.</li>
<li>Post videos – again in particular for additional commentary around quarterly earnings call.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Best Practice Examples</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.microvision.com/displayground/">Microvision has a great blog</a> and uses it well to engage with investors.  They were one of the first companies to solicit potential questions in advance of quarterly call and <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/Microvision/status/5025022117">ask they be submitted on their blog</a>.  They have also <a href="http://www.microvision.com/displayground/investor-relations/interview-with-microvision-ceo-alex-tokman/">interviewed their CEO</a> to address questions received on behalf of investors about an upcoming industry-related conference.</p>
<p>Cisco’s blog &#8216;<a href="http://blogs.cisco.com/category/news">The Platform</a>&#8216; is all encompassing and has a stream of posts from technology to a review of the quarterly report by the CFO.  They have a great use of video that is evidenced by the recording of their CFO to discuss earnings.</p>
<p>Instead of providing specific context around their earnings, <a href="http://www.jnjbtw.com/tag/strategy/">Johnson &amp; Johnson</a> uses their blog to provide commentary on their strategy as outlined by the company’s CEO and Chairman on the quarterly call.</p>
<p>They also use their blog to <a href="http://www.jnjbtw.com/2011/04/some-highlights-from-todays-annual-shareholders-meeting/">share the key ideas discussed at their annual meeting</a>, as well as posting the <a href="http://www.jnjbtw.com/2011/04/voting-results-from-johnson-johnsons-annual-meeting-of-shareholders/">shareholder results</a>.<a href="http://www.jnjbtw.com/2011/04/voting-results-from-johnson-johnsons-annual-meeting-of-shareholders/"></a></p>
<p>Earlier this year, their legal counsel, Doug Chia <a href="http://www.jnjbtw.com/2012/02/shareholder-innovations-another-retail-shareholder-friendly-tool/">shared a post about how they joined Moxy Vote</a> so that shareholders can directly cast shareholder votes through the site:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/JJ_MoxyVote.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6303" title="J&amp;J_MoxyVote" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/JJ_MoxyVote.png" alt="" width="600" height="439" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://community.accelrys.com/community/accelrys_blog">Accelyrs Software’s blog</a> is geared toward customers with contributions by product managers, developers and research staff. However, in spite of being mainly used to discuss product and industry information, the company did <a href="https://community.accelrys.com/community/accelrys_blog">post the details of their merger with Symyx Technologies</a>.</p>
<p>In January 2010, China Wind Power launched their IR Blog.  For a small cap Canadian company, China Wind does a great job of keeping their stakeholders apprised of their business strategy and company developments. For example, the image below provides an overview of one of their development projects:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/China-Wind-Power-IR-Blog.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6293" title="China Wind Power IR Blog" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/China-Wind-Power-IR-Blog.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="635" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://chinawindpower.posterous.com/tag/developmentphases">http://chinawindpower.posterous.com/tag/developmentphases</a></p>
<p>Emulex has four blogs that cover off all aspects of their business including marketing, R&amp;D and the technology industry in general.  They also have a  “CEO Blog” which is authored by Jim McCluney, the company’s president and CEO.  McCluney uses the blog to convey his expertise of the company’s business through <a href="http://www.emulex.com/blogs/jim/">detailed commentary on company news</a>.<a href="http://www.emulex.com/blogs/jim/"></a></p>
<p>Rackspace has a <a href="http://www.rackspace.com/blog/">corporate blog</a> that covers a diverse range of topics including corporate strategy, company news, industry events and investor-centric information.  For example, recent posts pertained to an overview of a <a href="http://www.rackspace.com/blog/netapp-announces-cloud-and-storage-partnership-with-rackspace/">strategic partnership</a>, while another covered an <a href="http://www.rackspace.com/blog/storming-the-new-york-stock-exchange/">analyst day at the NYSE</a>.</p>
<p>They also posted a video in which Patrick Walravens, an on-demand and enterprise software analyst at JMP Securities (who covers the company) interviewed Lew Moorman, President, Cloud and Chief Strategy Officer.</p>
<p>We are in the midst of updating our research and will be issuing a new whitepaper series in mid-June. Stay tuned!</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2012/05/04/ir-blog-series-part-1-of-2-steps-for-implementing-an-ir-blog/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: IR Blog Series: Part 1 of 2: Steps for Implementing an IR Blog'>IR Blog Series: Part 1 of 2: Steps for Implementing an IR Blog</a> <small>Since 2009, we have conducted research of how public companies...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/08/31/potashcorp-the-makings-of-a-best-practice-ir-website-part-2/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: PotashCorp: The Makings of a Best Practice IR Website &#8211; Part 2'>PotashCorp: The Makings of a Best Practice IR Website &#8211; Part 2</a> <small>This is the second part of an interview I conducted...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2012/04/27/niris-best-practices-for-online-web-disclosure-blogs-and-forums-and-social-media/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: NIRI&#8217;s Best practices for online web disclosure, blogs and forums and social media'>NIRI&#8217;s Best practices for online web disclosure, blogs and forums and social media</a> <small>The National Investor Relations Institute (NIRI) has just released its...</small></li></ol></p>
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		<title>FTSE100 Online Audience Report: How social media affects FTSE100 corporate web sites</title>
		<link>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/05/07/ftse100-online-audience-report-how-social-media-affects-ftse100-corporate-web-sites/</link>
		<comments>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/05/07/ftse100-online-audience-report-how-social-media-affects-ftse100-corporate-web-sites/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 07 May 2012 17:24:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sheryl Joyce</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Social Media]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Twitter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Best Practices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[IR 2.0]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.q4blog.com/?p=6257</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Group, is a leading online corporate communications agency based in the UK.  Recently they released their FTSE Online Audience Report: How social media affects FTSE100 corporate web sites.  What follows is the verbatim post of the key findings written by Paul Greenwood, Social Media Analyst.  We would like to thank Paul and The Group for allowing us to repurpose this great article.
You may have heard commentators speculating that social media is just another fad that doesn’t really have any effect on corporate web sites or corporate communications strategies.
However, the ...


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/08/09/leveraging-technology-online-communications-and-the-role-of-social-media/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Leveraging Technology: Online Communications and the Role of Social Media'>Leveraging Technology: Online Communications and the Role of Social Media</a> <small>Last week I had the pleasure of speaking at Deutsche...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2009/10/21/trends-and-best-practices-in-online-communications-and-social-media-in-corporate-ir/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Trends and Best Practices in Online Communications and Social Media in Corporate IR'>Trends and Best Practices in Online Communications and Social Media in Corporate IR</a> <small>Earlier this month, Dave Hogan, presented his paper “Reaching Shareholders...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2012/01/17/linkedfa-report-highlights-social-media-for-financial-professionals/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: linkedFA report highlights: Social Media for Financial Professionals'>linkedFA report highlights: Social Media for Financial Professionals</a> <small>Advisors understand that social media is one of the fastest...</small></li></ol>

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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em></em><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/thegroup.png"><img class="size-full wp-image-6283 alignright" style="margin-left: 6px; margin-right: 6px;" title="thegroup" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/thegroup.png" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><a title="The Group" href="http://the-group.net/">The Group</a>, is a leading online corporate communications agency based in the UK.  Recently they released their <a title="FTSE100 Online Audience Report: How social media affects FTSE100 corporate web sites" href="http://the-group.net/blog/index.asp?blogid=539">FTSE Online Audience Report: How social media affects FTSE100 corporate web sites</a>.  What follows is the verbatim post of the key findings written by Paul Greenwood, Social Media Analyst.  We would like to thank Paul and The Group for allowing us to repurpose this great article.</p>
<p>You may have heard commentators speculating that social media is just another fad that doesn’t really have any effect on corporate web sites or corporate communications strategies.</p>
<p>However, the findings in our <a href="http://www.the-group.net/blog/index.asp?blogid=538">FTSE100 Online Audience Report</a> suggests otherwise.</p>
<p><strong>Social media is a growing source of traffic, referring 3% of visits</strong><br />
Our research shows that in the last two years social media referrals to FTSE100 web sites have grown to 3% of total traffic (from under 1%). If this rate of growth continues (and there is no reason to suggest that it will not) social media referrals will account for approximately 10% of traffic in two to three years.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/BLOGPIC-1.png"><img class="size-full wp-image-6258 aligncenter" title="BLOGPIC 1" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/BLOGPIC-1.png" alt="" width="545" height="275" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Influential social media platforms</strong><br />
So which of the social media networks are sending visitors to your site?</p>
<p>Social media referrals are dominated by Wikipedia, LinkedIn and Facebook although (perhaps surprisingly) Twitter is not yet a significant driver of traffic to corporate web sites.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/BLOGPIC-2.png"><img class="size-full wp-image-6259 aligncenter" title="BLOGPIC 2" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/BLOGPIC-2.png" alt="" width="545" height="277" /></a></p>
<p>The study found Wikipedia has been the leading provider of social media traffic to FTSE100 sites. This is because of the prominence it has in search engine results driven by active updating of Wikipedia content. LinkedIn is also an increasingly important source of careers traffic and it has become the ‘careers equivalent of Facebook’.</p>
<p>Despite the volume of activity on Twitter surrounding FTSE100 companies, it refers relatively little traffic to corporate sites except around results announcements. This is an indication that the Twitter conversation exists away from FTSE100 sites and is of a different nature to the kinds of conversations that take place on blogging platforms.</p>
<p>In our <a href="http://www.the-group.net/socialmedia">FTSE100 social media index</a> published earlier this year, Twitter was the most used social media channel in the FTSE100. We found that 61 companies had an active Twitter account, up from 56 in June  2011 (+9%). It appears that it would imprudent for corporate communicators not to be on this channel and monitoring what has being said about the company away from their corporate web sites.</p>
<p><strong>The move from social to convergence communications</strong><br />
Although we have gone into detail about mobile visitors <a href="http://www.the-group.net/blog/index.asp?blogid=543">in an earlier blog</a>, it is worth mentioning that the key to the pick up in social media is the growth in mobile visitors, which accounts for around 5% of visits to corporate web sites. Our findings lend support to the idea that we may be moving from &#8216;social&#8217; forms of communication to a deeper convergence of all communications and channels.</p>
<p>To request a copy of FTSE100 Online Audience Report, you can contact paul at paul.greenwood@the-group.net.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/08/09/leveraging-technology-online-communications-and-the-role-of-social-media/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Leveraging Technology: Online Communications and the Role of Social Media'>Leveraging Technology: Online Communications and the Role of Social Media</a> <small>Last week I had the pleasure of speaking at Deutsche...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2009/10/21/trends-and-best-practices-in-online-communications-and-social-media-in-corporate-ir/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Trends and Best Practices in Online Communications and Social Media in Corporate IR'>Trends and Best Practices in Online Communications and Social Media in Corporate IR</a> <small>Earlier this month, Dave Hogan, presented his paper “Reaching Shareholders...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2012/01/17/linkedfa-report-highlights-social-media-for-financial-professionals/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: linkedFA report highlights: Social Media for Financial Professionals'>linkedFA report highlights: Social Media for Financial Professionals</a> <small>Advisors understand that social media is one of the fastest...</small></li></ol></p>
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		<title>IR Blog Series: Part 1 of 2: Steps for Implementing an IR Blog</title>
		<link>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/05/04/ir-blog-series-part-1-of-2-steps-for-implementing-an-ir-blog/</link>
		<comments>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/05/04/ir-blog-series-part-1-of-2-steps-for-implementing-an-ir-blog/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 04 May 2012 14:09:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sheryl Joyce</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Best Practices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Social Media]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Twitter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[IR 2.0]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.q4blog.com/?p=6242</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Since 2009, we have conducted research of how public companies are using social media for investor relations and subsequently issued several whitepapers on the subject.  Findings from our studies have consistently showed that the predominant social channel for investor-related material is Twitter followed by Facebook, YouTube, SlideShare and blogs.
Based on our ongoing discussions with IROs regarding social media, we aren’t really surprised by the low incidence of corporate blogs in our studies. When it comes to social channels for investor relations, blogs may represent too much of a sustained effort ...


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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IRblogs.png"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-6248" style="margin-left: 6px; margin-right: 6px;" title="IRblogs" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IRblogs.png" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>Since 2009, we have conducted research of how public companies are using social media for investor relations and subsequently issued <a title="several whitepapers" href="http://www.q4blog.com/category/whitepapers/">several whitepapers</a> on the subject.  Findings from our studies have consistently showed that the predominant social channel for investor-related material is Twitter followed by Facebook, YouTube, SlideShare and blogs.</p>
<p>Based on our ongoing discussions with IROs regarding social media, we aren’t really surprised by the low incidence of corporate blogs in our studies. When it comes to social channels for investor relations, blogs may represent too much of a sustained effort or are viewed as high risk in terms of disclosure. While companies may be comfortable with micro-blogging to tweet previously released information, creating original articles for a blog poses challenges in content creation and can be seen by legal departments to be fraught with disclosure risk.</p>
<p>Both of these concerns can be addressed by realizing that generating content is centered on providing context around the company (operations, key business metrics, corporate strategy, performance) and its industry. Risk can largely be addressed by creating effective social media policies, which incorporate disclosure controls or guidelines.</p>
<p>Our research has found that many companies already have one corporate blog where marketing, product or research staff comment on new products and provide their viewpoint on industry developments. As such, the IR department could slowly start incorporating investor-related material on the blog.  Investors should be informed that the company would also be posting this information on the blog. One obvious way to inform investors is by issuing a press release with a link to the blog. It is also important to prominently display the blog icon and the fact that investor information is also going to be shared on this new channel on the company’s website.  Most companies, who are using social media, display the social icons on their homepage, provide a ‘connect with us’ at the top of the homepage or choose to have the icons appear on all the pages. We have shared some of the ways that companies display their social networks on their website in this post: &#8216;<a title="corporate social media best practice: List social networks on your website" href="http://www.q4blog.com/2010/06/30/corporate-social-media-best-practice-list-social-networks-on-your-website/">Corporate Social Media Best Practice: List Social Networks on your Website</a>&#8216;.</p>
<p>In addition to sharing IR material, companies can also use the blog to provide insight and commentary on: peer/sector related news, such as scientific publications that impact or pertain to the company’s work.  This is a great way to approach your CEO or CFO to see if they would be interested in providing some commentary on the blog.  Legal will be concerned of course, but the information wouldn’t obviously be anything that has already been publicly disclosed.  If your CEO is not a great writer, see if he/she would like to be recorded talking about their thoughts on a recent event. For example, having your CEO talk about the merits of a merger and what it means for shareholders adds a lot of value. As in our experience, investors don’t want a regurgitation of the press release.</p>
<p>Another way to start using a blog for IR is to ask investors what questions or issues they would like addressed on an upcoming earnings call or annual meeting. By monitoring and actually answering the questions submitted by investors will let investors know that the blog is a place where they can interact with management.</p>
<p><strong>Best Practices for IR Blogs</strong></p>
<p>Based on our research we have put together some best practices for IR blogs:</p>
<ul>
<li>Provide insight into news, industry developments and the company – don’t just regurgitate information in press releases or other company materials.</li>
<li>Use the blog to solicit questions from shareholders in advance of a company event such as a quarterly earnings call or annual meeting.</li>
<li>Post videos, which will help provide additional commentary around company events such as a quarterly earnings call or annual meeting.</li>
<li>Provide a “Discussions Policy” and the company’s disclaimer (or a link to where the disclaimer can be found on the company’s website.)</li>
<li>Although not seen very often, posting the bio and avatar of the main contributor(s) to the blog can help companies give shareholders a more personal touch. It is also useful to provide contact information (even it is housed someplace else on the corporate or IR website) for the IR person/department.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>NOTE</strong>: In this post, I jumped right in with some suggestions for incorporating an IR blog into your communications strategy. What I didn’t address is how to get the initial buy-in from your management team and legal to start using social media for investor relations. I’ve provided some suggestions in this post:  ‘<a title="How to Get the C-Suite to Embrace Social Media for Investor Relations" href="http://www.q4blog.com/2009/10/13/how-to-get-the-c-suite-to-embrace-social-media-for-investor-relations/">How to Get the C-Suite to Embrace Social Media for Investor Relations’</a>.</p>
<p>The second part of this series will provide findings from our research including: what sectors and size of companies (based on their market cap) are the most prevalent users of IR blogs, and what country has the highest adoption rates. We will also include what we consider some best practice examples of companies who use IR blogs to help tell their investment story.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2012/05/11/ir-blog-series-part-2-of-2-best-practice-examples-of-ir-blogs/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: IR Blog Series: Part 2 of 2: Best Practice Examples of IR Blogs'>IR Blog Series: Part 2 of 2: Best Practice Examples of IR Blogs</a> <small>In the first part of this IR blog series, we...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/01/31/latest-umass-study-of-fortune-500-companies-and-social-media-23-blog-60-use-twitter-56-facebook/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Latest UMass study of Fortune 500 companies and Social Media : 23% blog, 60% use Twitter, 56% Facebook'>Latest UMass study of Fortune 500 companies and Social Media : 23% blog, 60% use Twitter, 56% Facebook</a> <small>The Center for Marketing Research at the University of Massachusetts...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/10/27/2011-umass-study-of-fortune-500-companies-and-social-media-23-blog-62-use-twitter-58-facebook/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: 2011 UMass study of Fortune 500 companies and Social Media: 23% blog, 62% use Twitter, 58% Facebook'>2011 UMass study of Fortune 500 companies and Social Media: 23% blog, 62% use Twitter, 58% Facebook</a> <small>The Center for Marketing Research at the University of Massachusetts...</small></li></ol></p>
<p>Related posts brought to you by <a href='http://mitcho.com/code/yarpp/'>Yet Another Related Posts Plugin</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>NIRI&#8217;s Best practices for online web disclosure, blogs and forums and social media</title>
		<link>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/04/27/niris-best-practices-for-online-web-disclosure-blogs-and-forums-and-social-media/</link>
		<comments>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/04/27/niris-best-practices-for-online-web-disclosure-blogs-and-forums-and-social-media/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 27 Apr 2012 18:05:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sheryl Joyce</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Analyst Research]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Best Practices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Corporate Governance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[IR Websites]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Social Media]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Transparency]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[web disclosure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[disclosure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[investor relations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[IR 2.0]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.q4blog.com/?p=6219</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The National Investor Relations Institute (NIRI) has just released its third volume of Standards of Practices for Investor Relations.  This volume focuses on outlining current best practices in corporate disclosure and is an update from a 2004 version.  The updated guideline takes into account the innovations in disclosure practices in regards to the SEC’s guidance on web disclosure, social media compliance concepts and recent case law.
While many companies have been quick to hop on board the latest digital and social channels, many have struggled with disclosure; unsure of how to ...


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/07/05/social-media-disclosure-is-now-the-time-wrap-up-and-audio-archive-niri-2011/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Social Media Disclosure: Is Now the Time? Wrap-up and Audio Archive: NIRI 2011'>Social Media Disclosure: Is Now the Time? Wrap-up and Audio Archive: NIRI 2011</a> <small>The use of social media by institutional and retail investors...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2009/10/21/trends-and-best-practices-in-online-communications-and-social-media-in-corporate-ir/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Trends and Best Practices in Online Communications and Social Media in Corporate IR'>Trends and Best Practices in Online Communications and Social Media in Corporate IR</a> <small>Earlier this month, Dave Hogan, presented his paper “Reaching Shareholders...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/06/23/former-niri-ceo-lou-thompson-talks-reg-fd-and-social-media-disclosure/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Former NIRI CEO Lou Thompson talks Reg FD and Social Media Disclosure'>Former NIRI CEO Lou Thompson talks Reg FD and Social Media Disclosure</a> <small>Last week, we sponsored a Lunch ‘n’ Learn session: &#8216;Social...</small></li></ol>

Related posts brought to you by <a href='http://mitcho.com/code/yarpp/'>Yet Another Related Posts Plugin</a>.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/NIRI_Standards-of-Practice_Disclosure_2012_title-page.png"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-6226" title="NIRI_Standards of Practice_Disclosure_2012_title page" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/NIRI_Standards-of-Practice_Disclosure_2012_title-page.png" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>The <a href="http://www.niri.org/">National Investor Relations Institute (NIRI)</a> has just released its third volume of <a href="http://www.niri.org/Main-Menu-Category/resource/publications/Standards-of-Practice-for-Investor-Relations.aspx"><em>Standards of Practices for Investor Relations</em></a>.  This volume focuses on outlining current best practices in corporate disclosure and is an update from a 2004 version.  The updated guideline takes into account the innovations in disclosure practices in regards to the SEC’s guidance on web disclosure, social media compliance concepts and recent case law.</p>
<p>While many companies have been quick to hop on board the latest digital and social channels, many have struggled with disclosure; unsure of how to properly control and filter the information they are sharing with investors.  Thankfully, NIRI has consistently released insightful and industry-leading papers such as this latest piece, that have become for many companies, the go to reference for best practices in all things investor relations.</p>
<p>This latest volume is especially interesting due to the large amount of changes and developments in web disclosure over the last five years (we have discussed some examples of companies who have adopted web disclosure practices on our <a href="http://www.q4blog.com/2010/04/21/web-disclosure-q1-trends-google-expedia-4-others-leading-the-pack/">blog</a>).   What follows are some of the key highlights and commentary on the best practices for online web disclosure, blogs and forums and social media.</p>
<p><strong>Liability for third party web comments</strong></p>
<p>The paper makes note that a company is responsible for all communications that it makes on its own behalf including corporate blogs or electronic investor forums.  In both these cases, some companies may be concerned that they will be held responsible for what third party users write on these platforms.  These comments however, are not their responsibility and companies need not fear any reprimand from comments made by third party users.</p>
<p><strong>Use of Company Website for Disclosure</strong></p>
<p>In 2008 the SEC issued the “Commission Guidance on the use of Company Websites” which acknowledged that a company website would satisfy FD disclosure requirements if:</p>
<ol>
<li>The website is a recognized channel of distribution of information to the market;</li>
<li>The website is a source of board dissemination to the market and;</li>
<li>There has been a reasonable waiting period for investors and the market to react to posted information.</li>
</ol>
<p>NIRI notes that disclosing material nonpublic information solely via a corporate website is only an emerging best practice and by no means a standard.  Most companies continue to use multichannel distribution methods to insure the broadest distribution to their investors.  NIRI also notes to be aware of web-crawling dangers.  Make sure that you have a strong password and some form of protection in order to access the information.  Without it, the information is susceptible to web crawling and the risk of being accessed and published prematurely before it was intended to be made public.</p>
<p><strong>Blogs and Electronic Forums</strong></p>
<p>As mentioned earlier, blogs and forums can be a point of contention for many companies who are concerned about the two way street of communication that is opened up between the company and whoever decide to comment on the web.  Here are a few of the best practices NIRI listed in regards to blogs and e-forums:</p>
<ol>
<li>Statements made by the company must comply with anti-fraud law.</li>
<li>Companies should establish a clear policy on what employees are allowed to contribute to the corporate blog and e-forums.</li>
<li>Companies who decide to publish a blog should establish and publish clear terms and conditions designed to limit the company’s liability.</li>
</ol>
<p>In general, the overall focus of NIRI’s best practices for blogs and forums, is to set clear guidelines and rules both within the company and among users of the communication channels.  The guidelines protect the company from any liability and make sure they have as much control over the communication as possible.</p>
<p><strong>Other Forms of Social Media (i.e. Twitter, Facebook)</strong></p>
<p>Like blogs and e-forums, other popular forms of social media can make some companies nervous because of the open-ended possibilities of communication.  While the lack of control can seem daunting, these are the channels of communications that your <a href="http://www.q4blog.com/category/whitepapers/">investors use on a daily basis</a>.  As time passes, they are going to demand that companies reach out to them on their preferred platform rather than being forced to search out the company’s.  Here are a few key best practices outlined by NIRI:</p>
<ol>
<li>Regulation FD and SEC rules still apply when making posts</li>
<li>Developing a strong and clear social media policy is of the utmost importance.  Make sure to have a policy readily and clearly available for users to review on all social channels</li>
<li>Incorporate the company’s existing disclosure policies into social media guidelines</li>
<li>Anyone who will be using social media should have training and thorough understanding in regards to applicable security laws</li>
</ol>
<p>Even if your company does not Tweet or post anything it is still important to monitor what is being said about the company, it’s management and it’s products and/or services.  Comments and posts on social media can be damaging to a companies reputation and it is important to be aware of what is being said.</p>
<p>This is just a small sample of this incredibly resourceful look into current best practices in investor relations regarding disclosure.  We encourage everyone to get a copy right away to help evaluate and improve your company’s current disclosure policy.  Again, Standards of Practice for Investor Relations Vol. III-Disclosure can be found on the <a href="http://www.niri.org/Main-Menu-Category/resource/publications/Standards-of-Practice-for-Investor-Relations.aspx">NIRI website</a>.  All NIRI members are able to access a free electronic version while no members have to pay a small fee.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/07/05/social-media-disclosure-is-now-the-time-wrap-up-and-audio-archive-niri-2011/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Social Media Disclosure: Is Now the Time? Wrap-up and Audio Archive: NIRI 2011'>Social Media Disclosure: Is Now the Time? Wrap-up and Audio Archive: NIRI 2011</a> <small>The use of social media by institutional and retail investors...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2009/10/21/trends-and-best-practices-in-online-communications-and-social-media-in-corporate-ir/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Trends and Best Practices in Online Communications and Social Media in Corporate IR'>Trends and Best Practices in Online Communications and Social Media in Corporate IR</a> <small>Earlier this month, Dave Hogan, presented his paper “Reaching Shareholders...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/06/23/former-niri-ceo-lou-thompson-talks-reg-fd-and-social-media-disclosure/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Former NIRI CEO Lou Thompson talks Reg FD and Social Media Disclosure'>Former NIRI CEO Lou Thompson talks Reg FD and Social Media Disclosure</a> <small>Last week, we sponsored a Lunch ‘n’ Learn session: &#8216;Social...</small></li></ol></p>
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		<title>Step-by-Step guide to help track your social media efforts using Google Analytics</title>
		<link>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/04/19/step-by-step-guide-to-help-you-track-your-social-media-efforts-using-google-analytics/</link>
		<comments>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/04/19/step-by-step-guide-to-help-you-track-your-social-media-efforts-using-google-analytics/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 19 Apr 2012 17:57:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sheryl Joyce</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Reporting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Social Media]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[google analytics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ROI]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.q4blog.com/?p=6209</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For many, using social media is an excellent way to increase both interaction with current investors and reach potential new ones.  Through our own research here at Q4, we have seen an increasing number of public companies adopt social media as part of their overall IR communication strategy.
Still, all this development with social media in investor relations doesn’t make the process any less daunting, whether you are just starting off a program of your own or have been one of the early users. Some main concerns before delving in are: ...


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/12/06/100-useful-ways-to-monitor-your-social-media-efforts/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: 100 useful ways to monitor your social media efforts'>100 useful ways to monitor your social media efforts</a> <small>Social media has enabled anyone to be an influencer &#8211;...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/10/20/poll-what-role-is-your-corporate-website-playing-in-your-social-media-efforts/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Poll: What role is your corporate website playing in your social media efforts?'>Poll: What role is your corporate website playing in your social media efforts?</a> <small>SmartBlog on Social Media has a weekly reader poll that...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2008/05/06/q4web-google-maps/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Q4Web &#8211; Google maps'>Q4Web &#8211; Google maps</a> <small>Following up on our Q4 WEB Spring 08 Features blog...</small></li></ol>

Related posts brought to you by <a href='http://mitcho.com/code/yarpp/'>Yet Another Related Posts Plugin</a>.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/socmedgoogleanal.png"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-6210" style="margin-left: 6px; margin-right: 6px;" title="socmedgoogleanal" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/socmedgoogleanal.png" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>For many, using social media is an excellent way to increase both interaction with current investors and reach potential new ones.  <a href="http://www.q4blog.com/category/whitepapers/">Through our own research here at Q4</a>, we have seen an increasing number of public companies adopt social media as part of their overall IR communication strategy.</p>
<p>Still, all this development with social media in investor relations doesn’t make the process any less daunting, whether you are just starting off a program of your own or have been one of the early users. Some main concerns before delving in are: how do you see the results of your efforts and how can you learn from them?  One of the main reasons that many companies do not end up exploring social media is because they are concerned they won’t be able to track its effectiveness and will not be able to justify putting the effort into including it as part of their communication strategy.</p>
<p>A good starting point for companies is to become aware of some of the free tools to help gauge the ROI of their communication efforts.  Google Analytics is one such free tool that cannot only be used to see the activity on your own corporate website but will work for your various social media channels as well. As a matter of fact <a href="http://www.q4websystems.com/Tour/Powerful-Analytics/default.aspx">our platform is integrated with Google Analytics</a>.</p>
<p>Eugen Oprea at socialmediaexaminer.com recently published a great <a href="http://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/how-to-track-social-media-traffic-with-google-analytics/">how-to-guide for measuring social media traffic with Google Analytics</a>.  If you’re exploring how to start using social media or already are, you should check out the guide to get a step-by-step walk though of how to properly set up Google Analytics complete with screenshots.  While setting up Google Analytics can seem like a daunting task at first, Oprea provides clear and friendly instructions that will have you running off traffic reports with Google Analytics in no time.</p>
<p>Google Analytics gives you the opportunity to see how the people who came to your site got there.  Perhaps on Facebook you will see that a large amount of people who are stopping by the page are doing so by seeing that some of their friends have liked your page or shared a post.  Perhaps a specific link that you shared on Twitter got a lot of attention.  By understanding the process that drives people to your channel you can play even more to that strength, emphasizing that factor in your messaging.  Knowing why people are interested in your site might show you something you weren’t aware of.</p>
<p>Google Analytics also offers you a chance to see what people are looking for on your channel.  By seeing what the most popular links and section on the page are you can get a better understanding of what people are looking for and the content they find most interesting.  With Twitter you will be able to see what links you provided were most interesting and how long someone took looking through your feed.  This will help you understand what kind of content you should be focusing on and see how well you are really engaging with your audience.</p>
<p>Google Analytics is a great tool to track social media traffic.  It offers you a chance to get comprehensive information on what is bringing your users to your social channels and what they are doing well they are there.  That key information allows you to make justifiable tweaks and adjustments to your social strategy. It also gives you an opportunity to create comprehensive reports to show those unsure of your progress the kind of results you are seeing.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/12/06/100-useful-ways-to-monitor-your-social-media-efforts/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: 100 useful ways to monitor your social media efforts'>100 useful ways to monitor your social media efforts</a> <small>Social media has enabled anyone to be an influencer &#8211;...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/10/20/poll-what-role-is-your-corporate-website-playing-in-your-social-media-efforts/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Poll: What role is your corporate website playing in your social media efforts?'>Poll: What role is your corporate website playing in your social media efforts?</a> <small>SmartBlog on Social Media has a weekly reader poll that...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2008/05/06/q4web-google-maps/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Q4Web &#8211; Google maps'>Q4Web &#8211; Google maps</a> <small>Following up on our Q4 WEB Spring 08 Features blog...</small></li></ol></p>
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		<title>Q4 Web 3.6.2 Upgrades &#8211; SlideShare Publishing &amp; Interactive XBRL Financials</title>
		<link>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/04/19/q4-web-3-6-2-upgrades-slideshare-publishing-interactive-xbrl-financials/</link>
		<comments>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/04/19/q4-web-3-6-2-upgrades-slideshare-publishing-interactive-xbrl-financials/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 19 Apr 2012 13:22:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sheryl Joyce</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Financial blogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[IR Websites]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Product]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Product Announcments]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Best Practices]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.q4blog.com/?p=6165</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As part of our latest Q4 Web release we are pleased to announce two significant features that are now available for free to all Q4 Web clients: One-Step SlideShare Publishing and Interactive XBRL Financials.
One-Step SlideShare Publishing
Investor presentations (slides) are a key element of IR websites and today many IROs are publishing their slides to SlideShare. We’re excited to announce that any presentation uploaded to a Q4 IR website can now be simultaneously published to the company’s SlideShare account.

Clients simply add their SlideShare credentials to the social media dashboard and then ...


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2007/09/24/interactive-disclosure-xbrl-continues-to-grow/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Interactive Disclosure (XBRL) Continues to Grow'>Interactive Disclosure (XBRL) Continues to Grow</a> <small>Last Thursday the SEC Chairmen Christopher Cox announced that the...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2010/06/10/q4-announces-new-upgrades-focused-on-real-time-integration-of-social-media/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Q4 Announces New Upgrades Focused on Real-Time Integration of Social Media'>Q4 Announces New Upgrades Focused on Real-Time Integration of Social Media</a> <small>We&#8217;re excited to announce the release of a number of...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2007/09/26/xbrl-gaap-taxonomy-getting-ready-for-market-acceptance/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: XBRL GAAP Taxonomy getting ready for market acceptance.'>XBRL GAAP Taxonomy getting ready for market acceptance.</a> <small>Another XBRL post&#8230;  Yesterday the SEC held a press conference...</small></li></ol>

Related posts brought to you by <a href='http://mitcho.com/code/yarpp/'>Yet Another Related Posts Plugin</a>.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As part of our latest Q4 Web release we are pleased to announce two significant features that are now available for free to all Q4 Web clients: One-Step SlideShare Publishing and Interactive XBRL Financials.</p>
<p><strong>One-Step SlideShare Publishing</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/slideshare.png"></a><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/slideshare2.png"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-6176" style="margin-left: 3px; margin-right: 3px;" title="slideshare" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/slideshare2.png" alt="" width="150" height="38" /></a>Investor presentations (slides) are a key element of IR websites and today many <a href="http://www.q4blog.com/2012/03/29/q4-whitepaper-public-company-use-of-social-media-for-ir-part-3-youtube-slideshare/">IROs are publishing their slides to SlideShare.</a> We’re excited to announce that any presentation uploaded to a Q4 IR website can now be simultaneously published to the company’s SlideShare account.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/SendToSlideShare.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6177" title="SendToSlideShare" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/SendToSlideShare.png" alt="" width="540" height="157" /></a></p>
<p>Clients simply add their SlideShare credentials to the social media dashboard and then upload a presentation to their Q4 Web instance.  The presentation is then automatically published to the company’s IR website and SlideShare account.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/SocialMediaDashboard-1.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6178" title="SocialMediaDashboard 1" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/SocialMediaDashboard-1.png" alt="" width="540" height="279" /></a></p>
<p>If the client’s IR website is configured to display the most recent presentation in the SlideShare Player (like on the Ryder site below) then it will automatically display there as well.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Ryder1.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6180" title="Ryder" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Ryder1.png" alt="" width="540" height="477" /></a></p>
<p>Combined with <a href="http://www.q4websystems.com/Tour/Simultaneous-Web-Publishing/default.aspx">Q4 Web’s alerts</a>, a short message and a link to these presentations are automatically sent to our clients’ email list, RSS, Twitter, Facebook and StockTwits accounts.  And if the company is a StockTwits Enterprise subscriber, the message and link is distributed across the financial web to more than 40M investors.</p>
<p><strong>Interactive XBRL Financials now included for all SEC filers</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/XBRL.png"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-6181" title="XBRL" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/XBRL.png" alt="" width="150" height="69" /></a>XBRL or Extensible Business Reporting Language is a standard for financial reporting required by the SEC: <a href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/">http://xbrl.sec.gov/</a>. The SEC regulation requires companies to post XBRL files on their site within a day of filing with the SEC.  These include but are not limited to all quarterly (10Q) and annual (10K) financial reports. When displayed in an interactive format, this data gives investors more meaningful information to make investment decisions.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/XBRLFinancials-1.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-6182" title="XBRLFinancials 1" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/XBRLFinancials-1.png" alt="" width="540" height="316" /></a></p>
<p>As part of our ongoing commitment to improve the quality of our client’s IR websites, we’re pleased to announce that all companies that file in XBRL will now automatically have a free interactive XBRL financial viewer on their IR website. This viewer makes it easy for investors to access and analyze all of the companies reported financial data in a great degree of detail directly on the company&#8217;s IR website &#8211; minutes after being filed with the SEC.</p>
<p>We’re committed to continuously improving Q4 Web and giving our clients the capabilities they need to be competitive in today’s market. We look forward to announcing the next batch of upgrades in the summer.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2007/09/24/interactive-disclosure-xbrl-continues-to-grow/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Interactive Disclosure (XBRL) Continues to Grow'>Interactive Disclosure (XBRL) Continues to Grow</a> <small>Last Thursday the SEC Chairmen Christopher Cox announced that the...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2010/06/10/q4-announces-new-upgrades-focused-on-real-time-integration-of-social-media/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Q4 Announces New Upgrades Focused on Real-Time Integration of Social Media'>Q4 Announces New Upgrades Focused on Real-Time Integration of Social Media</a> <small>We&#8217;re excited to announce the release of a number of...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2007/09/26/xbrl-gaap-taxonomy-getting-ready-for-market-acceptance/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: XBRL GAAP Taxonomy getting ready for market acceptance.'>XBRL GAAP Taxonomy getting ready for market acceptance.</a> <small>Another XBRL post&#8230;  Yesterday the SEC held a press conference...</small></li></ol></p>
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		<title>Q4 is hiring! Looking for a Front-End Web Developer</title>
		<link>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/04/03/q4-is-hiring-looking-for-a-front-end-web-developer/</link>
		<comments>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/04/03/q4-is-hiring-looking-for-a-front-end-web-developer/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 03 Apr 2012 14:09:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sheryl Joyce</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jobs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[careers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[IR 2.0]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.q4blog.com/?p=6098</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[FRONT-END WEB DEVELOPER
Are you an easy-going, enthusiastic, self-starter with a passion for innovation? Q4 Web Systems is looking for a team-player to become part of our Front-end development team!
We are a growing company, specializing in corporate website and social media applications, serving over 200 international clients.
 
Responsibilities:


Work with a cross-functional team to develop front-end applications
Recognizing and implementing UI/UX best practices; participate in IA development
Keeping the company looking forward by championing new ideas and technology
Working with team members to conceptualize and execute projects
Collaborate with other developers to maintain standards and create ...


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2010/03/09/q4-is-hiring-account-mgrs-csshtml-devs-and-quality-control/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Q4 is Hiring Account Mgrs, CSS/HTML Devs and Quality Control'>Q4 is Hiring Account Mgrs, CSS/HTML Devs and Quality Control</a> <small> Over the last couple of months we&#8217;ve been fortunate...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2008/03/13/wanted-senior-net-developer/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Wanted:  Senior .NET Developer'>Wanted:  Senior .NET Developer</a> <small>Q4 Web Systems is looking for a kick-ass senior .NET...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2010/12/14/q4-jobs-were-hiring-for-multiple-positions/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Q4 Jobs &#8211; We&#8217;re Hiring for Multiple Positions!'>Q4 Jobs &#8211; We&#8217;re Hiring for Multiple Positions!</a> <small>I&#8217;m happy to let you know today that we&#8217;re actively...</small></li></ol>

Related posts brought to you by <a href='http://mitcho.com/code/yarpp/'>Yet Another Related Posts Plugin</a>.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/hiring_blog.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-5942" title="hiring_blog" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/hiring_blog.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>FRONT-END WEB DEVELOPER</strong></p>
<p>Are you an easy-going, enthusiastic, self-starter with a passion for innovation? Q4 Web Systems is looking for a team-player to become part of our Front-end development team!</p>
<div>We are a growing company, specializing in corporate website and social media applications, serving over 200 international clients.<br />
<strong> </strong></div>
<div><strong>Responsibilities:</strong></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Work with a cross-functional team to develop front-end applications</li>
<li>Recognizing and implementing UI/UX best practices; participate in IA development</li>
<li>Keeping the company looking forward by championing new ideas and technology</li>
<li>Working with team members to conceptualize and execute projects</li>
<li>Collaborate with other developers to maintain standards and create a re-usable code-base</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Must have:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>3-5 years front-end development experience</li>
<li>Expertise hand-coding HTML4/5, CSS2/3</li>
<li>Proficiency using Photoshop</li>
<li>Ability to write clean, efficient cross-browser compatible code without resorting to browser specific workarounds</li>
<li>Strong working knowledge of JavaScript, jQuery</li>
<li>Passion for web-based technologies and emerging standards</li>
<li>Strong communication skills</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Nice to have:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Experience with mobile site development</li>
<li>Experience with application development for mobile devices (iPad, iPhone, Android, Blackberry)</li>
<li>Experience with content management systems</li>
</ul>
<p>*Candidate should be prepared to take a test on Programming / Scripting if applicable at the interview.</p>
<p><strong>Why Q4?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Be part of a fast-growing company that has doubled revenue growth for five straight years and provides solutions to clients like Nike, Loblaw, Ryder Systems, Dell</li>
<li>Work in the trendy <a title="Liberty Village" href="http://www.blogto.com/libertyvillage">Liberty Village area</a> (Toronto) in a cool, casual environment surrounded by creative, fun-loving colleagues</li>
<li>Know your contribution is essential and valued</li>
</ul>
<p>To find out more, check us out on <a title="Twitter" href="https://twitter.com/#!/q4websystems">Twitter</a>, <a title="Facebook" href="http://www.facebook.com/q4websystems">Facebook</a>, <a title="LinkedIn" href="http://www.linkedin.com/company/q4-web-systems/products">LinkedIn</a> and <a title="Q4 Web Systems" href="http://www.q4websystems.com/">our website</a>. Be sure to check out our new <a href="http://www.q4blog.com/2012/03/21/new-q4-commercial-meet-sally-the-iro/">commercial</a>.</p>
<p>If you’re interested in this exciting opportunity, please forward your resume and a cover letter on why you think you’re right for Q4 to <a href="mailto:careers@q4websystems.com">careers@q4websystems.com</a>.</p>
<p>If you know of anyone, please share with your friends!</p>
</div>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2010/03/09/q4-is-hiring-account-mgrs-csshtml-devs-and-quality-control/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Q4 is Hiring Account Mgrs, CSS/HTML Devs and Quality Control'>Q4 is Hiring Account Mgrs, CSS/HTML Devs and Quality Control</a> <small> Over the last couple of months we&#8217;ve been fortunate...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2008/03/13/wanted-senior-net-developer/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Wanted:  Senior .NET Developer'>Wanted:  Senior .NET Developer</a> <small>Q4 Web Systems is looking for a kick-ass senior .NET...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2010/12/14/q4-jobs-were-hiring-for-multiple-positions/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Q4 Jobs &#8211; We&#8217;re Hiring for Multiple Positions!'>Q4 Jobs &#8211; We&#8217;re Hiring for Multiple Positions!</a> <small>I&#8217;m happy to let you know today that we&#8217;re actively...</small></li></ol></p>
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		<title>Role of Social Media in Performance Reporting</title>
		<link>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/04/02/role-of-social-media-in-performance-reporting/</link>
		<comments>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/04/02/role-of-social-media-in-performance-reporting/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 21:15:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sheryl Joyce</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Analyst Research]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Best Practices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[irchat]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Reporting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Social Media]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Twitter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[disclosure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[investor relations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[IR 2.0]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[IR blogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Research]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.q4blog.com/?p=6080</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (CICA) and the Canadian Investor Relations Institute (CIRI) have just released a new study looking at the role of Social Media in Performance Reporting.  It a very interesting read and we highly recommend obtaining a copy. [you can download it here]. It’s a great chance for those who are considering adopting a social media component in their Performance Reporting communications to get some great tips on how to properly implement a program.
The paper is split into three different sections:
Advantages of utilizing Social Media for ...


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/08/09/leveraging-technology-online-communications-and-the-role-of-social-media/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Leveraging Technology: Online Communications and the Role of Social Media'>Leveraging Technology: Online Communications and the Role of Social Media</a> <small>Last week I had the pleasure of speaking at Deutsche...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2012/03/15/the-new-investor-web-social-media-webinar-replay-highlights/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The New Investor Web &#038; Social Media Webinar: Replay &#038; Highlights'>The New Investor Web &#038; Social Media Webinar: Replay &#038; Highlights</a> <small>On Tuesday, March 13, 2012, we held a webinar on...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2012/04/27/niris-best-practices-for-online-web-disclosure-blogs-and-forums-and-social-media/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: NIRI&#8217;s Best practices for online web disclosure, blogs and forums and social media'>NIRI&#8217;s Best practices for online web disclosure, blogs and forums and social media</a> <small>The National Investor Relations Institute (NIRI) has just released its...</small></li></ol>

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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://cica.ca/"></a><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Screen-shot-2012-04-02-at-3.27.50-PM.png"><img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-6091" title="Screen shot 2012-04-02 at 3.27.50 PM" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Screen-shot-2012-04-02-at-3.27.50-PM-150x150.png" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>The Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (CICA) and the <a href="http://www.ciri.org/Home.aspx">Canadian Investor Relations Institute (CIRI)</a> have just released a new study looking at the role of Social Media in Performance Reporting.  It a very interesting read and we highly recommend obtaining a copy. [<a href="http://www.cica.ca/focus-on-practice-areas/reporting-and-capital-markets/performance-reporting-resource-centre/item63631.pdf ">you can download it here</a>]. It’s a great chance for those who are considering adopting a social media component in their Performance Reporting communications to get some great tips on how to properly implement a program.</p>
<p>The paper is split into three different sections:</p>
<p><strong>Advantages of utilizing Social Media for your performance reporting</strong></p>
<p>Some of the advantages of using social media for your performance reporting include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Reaching a larger audience;</li>
<li>Differentiating yourself from competitors;</li>
<li>Building trust amongst stakeholders;</li>
<li>Brand management;</li>
<li>Being seen as proactive and innovative; and</li>
<li>Alleviating the IR department’s efforts.</li>
</ul>
<p>Overall, the advantages given reflect the reasons why most companies are interested in getting involved in social media in the first place.  It takes a company from just another in the pack to being viewed as an innovative, communication focused company that wants to build strong relationships with its investors.</p>
<p><strong>Potential Challenges in implementing Social Media for your performance reporting</strong></p>
<p>Some of the challenges outlined include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Regulatory constraints;</li>
<li>Increasing audience participation;</li>
<li>Measuring success;</li>
<li>Cost/benefit issues;</li>
<li>Lack of senior management buy-in; and</li>
<li>Evolving technology.</li>
</ul>
<p>Many have probably heard these issues when discussing the possibility of implementing a social media plan.  The report does an excellent job of outlining the challenges and offering key insights into how to over come them.</p>
<p><strong>Roadmap for implementing a Social Media strategy</strong></p>
<p>The report outlines 8 steps for implementing a social media strategy, including excellent tips for how to overcome certain obstacles that can get in the way of implementing the plan.</p>
<p><strong>What are your peers doing?</strong></p>
<p>The first steps have to do with early development ideas like going out and seeing how other companies are using Social Media and developing a clear strategy of how Social Media would work for you.  Once you have a strategy it is important to get executives excited about the program and show them the potential Social Media has in their performance reporting goals.</p>
<p><strong>Policies and Procedures</strong></p>
<p>After outlining the first couple of steps in warming everyone up towards a Social Media plan, the study then takes an in-depth look at possibly the most important part of the process; <strong>setting up the necessary polices and procedures for your Social Media program</strong>.  Making clear procedural plans minimizes the risk of anything going wrong with your program and ensures that if something unexpected does happen you will be ready for it.</p>
<p><strong>Allocating Resources</strong></p>
<p>The study then looks at setting up accounts on individual Social Media sites and makes suggestions on how to properly allocate resources to those sites.  Not every company is the same and companies need to understand what they need how they can most effectively make use of a Social Media program.</p>
<p><strong>Monitoring &amp; Maintenance</strong></p>
<p>Once everything is set up the study concludes by outlining the importance of monitoring the conversations that are taking place on your channels and regularly taking the time to evaluate how your program is doing.  Although it is common knowledge by now for most, it is still worth noting that Social Media needs to do regularly maintained.  You need to make sure that the program is being regularly monitored and evaluated in order to see results from the program.  Letting your program fall by the wayside is not only a waste of the time you have already allocated to the project, but also damaging the relationship you have with the people who chose to interact with you through Social Media.</p>
<p>This is a truly excellent study for anyone to check out.  Whether you are thinking about starting to use or are currently using Social Media as part of your performance reporting communication strategy it is a great resource for getting some key information and insights.  In our work at Q4 has seen an amazing rise in the adoption of Social Media in the world of IR.  If you have any questions regarding your current or future Social Media plan, check out CIRI’s and CICA&#8217;s Role of Social Media in Performance Reporting Discussion Brief – it is a great resource for you at whatever stage of the game you are in.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/08/09/leveraging-technology-online-communications-and-the-role-of-social-media/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Leveraging Technology: Online Communications and the Role of Social Media'>Leveraging Technology: Online Communications and the Role of Social Media</a> <small>Last week I had the pleasure of speaking at Deutsche...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2012/03/15/the-new-investor-web-social-media-webinar-replay-highlights/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The New Investor Web &#038; Social Media Webinar: Replay &#038; Highlights'>The New Investor Web &#038; Social Media Webinar: Replay &#038; Highlights</a> <small>On Tuesday, March 13, 2012, we held a webinar on...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2012/04/27/niris-best-practices-for-online-web-disclosure-blogs-and-forums-and-social-media/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: NIRI&#8217;s Best practices for online web disclosure, blogs and forums and social media'>NIRI&#8217;s Best practices for online web disclosure, blogs and forums and social media</a> <small>The National Investor Relations Institute (NIRI) has just released its...</small></li></ol></p>
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		<item>
		<title>Merits of XBRL for Investor Relations</title>
		<link>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/04/02/merits-of-xbrl-for-investor-relations/</link>
		<comments>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/04/02/merits-of-xbrl-for-investor-relations/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 15:19:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sheryl Joyce</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Best Practices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[irchat]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Reporting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[XBRL]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[investor relations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[IR 2.0]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.q4blog.com/?p=6060</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Phil Moyer, the Vice President and managing director at Safeguard Scientifics’ Technology Group has written a great blog post on the emerging industry standard of XRBL language and coding.   Moyer has a unique level of insight on XBRL, being on the board of XBRL US, a consortium of 600 companies from all over the world working to build the XBRL language and support its adoption.
eXstensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL) allows for easy and reliable electronic communication of business and financial data.  It makes it easy for companies to communicate directly ...


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2008/01/18/xbrl-continues-to-expand/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: XBRL continues to expand'>XBRL continues to expand</a> <small>In case you’re not familiar with XBRL – it stands...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2007/05/29/canadian-securities-regulators-launch-xbrl-voluntary-filing-program/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Canadian securities regulators launch XBRL voluntary filing program'>Canadian securities regulators launch XBRL voluntary filing program</a> <small>Yesterday the CSA formally launched their XBRL voluntary filing program that...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2007/09/24/interactive-disclosure-xbrl-continues-to-grow/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Interactive Disclosure (XBRL) Continues to Grow'>Interactive Disclosure (XBRL) Continues to Grow</a> <small>Last Thursday the SEC Chairmen Christopher Cox announced that the...</small></li></ol>

Related posts brought to you by <a href='http://mitcho.com/code/yarpp/'>Yet Another Related Posts Plugin</a>.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/XBRl.jpg"><img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-6066" title="XBRl" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/XBRl-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>Phil Moyer, the Vice President and managing director at Safeguard Scientifics’ Technology Group has written a great <a href="http://blog.safeguard.com/index.php/2012/01/10/xbrl-a-new-language-for-the-large-data-challenge/    ">blog post</a> on the emerging industry standard of XRBL language and coding.   Moyer has a unique level of insight on XBRL, being on the board of XBRL US, a consortium of 600 companies from all over the world working to build the XBRL language and support its adoption.</p>
<p>eXstensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL) allows for easy and reliable electronic communication of business and financial data.  It makes it easy for companies to communicate directly with investors in a user-friendly format.  Due to its positive features, it is quickly becoming the industry standard.</p>
<p>The main reason why XBRL is so important, particularly with the financial industry and Investor Relations, is that it efficiently filters the large amount of data that is constantly pouring out from various companies.  This great amount of information is incredibly useful, but the task of organizing everything is daunting to say the least.  Luckily, the latest technology allows for the analysis of massive amounts of data across multiple industries making things much easier and efficient.</p>
<p>Investors are especially happy to see XBRL being utilized and embraced.  They are excited by this new amount of information they have access to. The easy access to financial news and updates is going to help them feel more connected to their investments.  XBRL’s efficiency and accuracy saves a lot of time and money, which is something investors are always mindful of and sensitive to.   Things will only continue to improve now that SEC requires that reports be submitted in XBRL.</p>
<p>Moyer has done an excellent job at advocating for XBRL and really illustrates how it is bringing growth and change to the handling of digital financial data.  With the amount of information now being made available, it is important that it is provided in the most efficient and transparent way possible.  XBRL offers companies a great opportunity to effectively communicate with investors and get them the information they are looking for in the easiest way possible.  More and more companies are coming to realize just how important Investor Relations is, and with XBRL, they have an opportunity to show investors they are working to create the best experience for them they possible can.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2008/01/18/xbrl-continues-to-expand/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: XBRL continues to expand'>XBRL continues to expand</a> <small>In case you’re not familiar with XBRL – it stands...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2007/05/29/canadian-securities-regulators-launch-xbrl-voluntary-filing-program/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Canadian securities regulators launch XBRL voluntary filing program'>Canadian securities regulators launch XBRL voluntary filing program</a> <small>Yesterday the CSA formally launched their XBRL voluntary filing program that...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2007/09/24/interactive-disclosure-xbrl-continues-to-grow/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Interactive Disclosure (XBRL) Continues to Grow'>Interactive Disclosure (XBRL) Continues to Grow</a> <small>Last Thursday the SEC Chairmen Christopher Cox announced that the...</small></li></ol></p>
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		<title>Q4 Whitepaper: Public Company Use of Social Media for IR &#8211; Part 3 YouTube &amp; SlideShare</title>
		<link>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/03/29/q4-whitepaper-public-company-use-of-social-media-for-ir-part-3-youtube-slideshare/</link>
		<comments>http://www.q4blog.com/2012/03/29/q4-whitepaper-public-company-use-of-social-media-for-ir-part-3-youtube-slideshare/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 29 Mar 2012 13:28:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sheryl Joyce</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Best Practices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Headline]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Whitepapers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Facebook]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[IR 2.0]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Research]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SlideShare]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Social Media]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[StockTwits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Twitter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[YouTube]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Q4 has just released a new Whitepaper in our continuing series on Social Media for Investor Relations.  Our last two studies focused on Twitter &#38; StockTwits and Facebook respectively.  Our new study looks at the growing use of YouTube and SlideShare in IR.  This is a continuation and the last whitepaper in our series based on our 2011 research where we analyzed over 600 companies. (Stay tuned for part one of our 2012 series that analyzes 1000  companies and their use of social media for investor relations in May).
We get ...


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/09/07/q4-whitepaper-public-company-use-of-social-media-for-investor-relations-part-2-facebook/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Q4 Whitepaper: Public Company Use of Social Media for Investor Relations &#8211; Part 2 Facebook'>Q4 Whitepaper: Public Company Use of Social Media for Investor Relations &#8211; Part 2 Facebook</a> <small>In this second part in our series of whitepapers concerning...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2010/07/29/q4-whitepaper-public-company-use-of-social-media-for-investor-relations-summer-2010/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Q4 Whitepaper: Public Company Use of Social Media for Investor Relations &#8211; Summer 2010'>Q4 Whitepaper: Public Company Use of Social Media for Investor Relations &#8211; Summer 2010</a> <small>[caption id="attachment_2327" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Download the latest Q4 Whitepaper on...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/06/01/q4-whitepaper-public-company-use-of-social-media-for-investor-relations-part-1-twitter-stocktwits/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Q4 Whitepaper: Public Company Use of Social Media for Investor Relations &#8211; Part 1 Twitter &#038; StockTwits'>Q4 Whitepaper: Public Company Use of Social Media for Investor Relations &#8211; Part 1 Twitter &#038; StockTwits</a> <small>Q4’s fourth whitepaper on social media shows an enormous ramp-up...</small></li></ol>

Related posts brought to you by <a href='http://mitcho.com/code/yarpp/'>Yet Another Related Posts Plugin</a>.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-6038" style="margin: 10px;" title="WhitePaperCover_YouTubeSlideshare" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/WhitePaperCover_YouTubeSlideshare-150x150.png" alt="" width="150" height="150" />Q4 has just released a new Whitepaper in our continuing series on Social Media for Investor Relations.  Our last two studies focused on <a title="Twitter &amp; StockTwits" href="http://www.q4blog.com/2011/06/01/q4-whitepaper-public-company-use-of-social-media-for-investor-relations-part-1-twitter-stocktwits/">Twitter &amp; StockTwits</a> and <a title="Facebook" href="http://www.q4blog.com/2011/09/07/q4-whitepaper-public-company-use-of-social-media-for-investor-relations-part-2-facebook/">Facebook</a> respectively.  Our <a title="New Study" href="http://go.q4websystems.com/YoutubeSlideShareDownloadPage.html">new study</a> looks at the growing use of <a title="YouTube" href="http://www.youtube.com/">YouTube</a> and <a title="SlideShare" href="http://www.slideshare.net/">SlideShare</a> in IR.  This is a continuation and the last whitepaper in our series based on our 2011 research where we analyzed over 600 companies. (Stay tuned for part one of our 2012 series that analyzes 1000  companies and their use of social media for investor relations in May).</p>
<p>We get an excellent look at how IRO’s are continuing to develop in Social Media, using both YouTube and SlideShare as a way to give investors an up close and personal look at what is going on inside and outside the company.  YouTube offers the chance for companies to post video messages from the CEO, show off new products or services and provide in-depth coverage on corporate news and events.  Likewise, SlideShare offers companies a chance to let investors in on important corporate presentations, allowing investors to get easier access to important information.</p>
<p>With 10+ different in depth case studies, we offer the chance to discover some of the emerging best practices in regards to these growing Social Channels.</p>
<p>Get the <a title="FREE Whitepaper today" href="http://go.q4websystems.com/YoutubeSlideShareDownloadPage.html"><strong>FREE</strong> Whitepaper today</a> and you’ll learn:</p>
<ul>
<li>Best practices for posting corporate presentations.</li>
<li>What makes a corporate YouTube Video go Viral.</li>
<li>The benefits of creating IR content specifically for YouTube.</li>
<li>The importance of having an official account.</li>
<li>How to build and maintain an easy to access playlist for investors to easily find the content they are looking for.</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a title="Download whitepaper" href="http://go.q4websystems.com/YoutubeSlideShareDownloadPage.html"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4651" title="DownloadWhitePaper" src="http://www.q4blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DownloadWhitePaper.jpg" alt="" width="201" height="34" /></a></p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/09/07/q4-whitepaper-public-company-use-of-social-media-for-investor-relations-part-2-facebook/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Q4 Whitepaper: Public Company Use of Social Media for Investor Relations &#8211; Part 2 Facebook'>Q4 Whitepaper: Public Company Use of Social Media for Investor Relations &#8211; Part 2 Facebook</a> <small>In this second part in our series of whitepapers concerning...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2010/07/29/q4-whitepaper-public-company-use-of-social-media-for-investor-relations-summer-2010/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Q4 Whitepaper: Public Company Use of Social Media for Investor Relations &#8211; Summer 2010'>Q4 Whitepaper: Public Company Use of Social Media for Investor Relations &#8211; Summer 2010</a> <small>[caption id="attachment_2327" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Download the latest Q4 Whitepaper on...</small></li><li><a href='http://www.q4blog.com/2011/06/01/q4-whitepaper-public-company-use-of-social-media-for-investor-relations-part-1-twitter-stocktwits/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Q4 Whitepaper: Public Company Use of Social Media for Investor Relations &#8211; Part 1 Twitter &#038; StockTwits'>Q4 Whitepaper: Public Company Use of Social Media for Investor Relations &#8211; Part 1 Twitter &#038; StockTwits</a> <small>Q4’s fourth whitepaper on social media shows an enormous ramp-up...</small></li></ol></p>
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