Using LinkedIn as an investor relations tool

Given the (on average) more affluent and educated masses on LinkedIn compared to Twitter and Facebook, and the fact that LinkedIn appears to be the preferred social networking site of registered investment advisors, it would appear that LinkedIn should be a prime target for IROs. However, we have not seen LinkedIn being used to the same effect as Twitter and even Facebook for public companies’ investor relations. 

So the question becomes, how can a company use LinkedIn as an investor relations tool?  Here are just a few ideas to get started: 

• Ensure that your company profile is accurate and links to your corporate website and/or blog;
• Ensure key management profiles are actively and accurately maintained, and linked to the company;
• Have key management participate in relevant LinkedIn Groups where they can demonstrate their industry expertise;
• Have key management profiles include links to corporate social media sites (blog, Twitter, Facebook Page, etc.);
• Upload investor materials to management profiles; and,
• Most importantly, build relationships!