Investor / Government Relations

Investor Relations
Companies must always strive to communicate progress in order to maximize shareholder value to the investing public. In order to keep their shareholders happy a companies investor relations goals should include explanations of the company's vision and strategy as well as expectations of company stock. Companies should be concerned with the importance of long term owners' of stock. People want to know what is going on with their investments and convinced that they are investing in the right company. A company should use investor relations to their advantage, marketing to add value to the company stock. Their strategy should address the expectations of both institutional and individual investors. Options are available for companies to establish investor relations from developing an in house function to a contracted outside agency.

Government Relations
Over the years the reach or regulatory agencies in the United States has grown and evolved significantly. Government has a great deal of power to regulate business and protect the citizens through agencies such as the SEC, FCC, CAB, FAA, SOX, ICC, FDA, and many others. Many businesses cannot even begin operation without receiving a license from one of these government regulated agencies. Outside of regulatory agencies, the government also has influence over a number of industries that provide basic necessities for society such as transportation and utility prices. Due to the governments involvement in commercial affairs, companies have turned to lobbying and negotiating with key political people in Washington. In order to have an effect on the decisions being made, companies need to have a business strategy and an internal staff in place that help them to build their position with the lawmakers.