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strategy, strategy, strategy

Ironically, change is one aspect (and challenge, while we’re at it) of my job that i embrace alot.

In my relevant context, change (in market climate, investor’s preference) creates diversity in my job. In a bull run, Investor Relations (IR) apply certain strategies towards its clients, and when market hit the doldrums, we, as IR practitioners, push for different strategies and constantly offer other value-added services. It’s not true that only corporate (or consumer PR) requires creativity. We, too, need to think out of the box to ensure client retention, job retention, company survival, client survival & profitability. It is a STRATEGY.

I would be lying if i said that IR firms are not affected by the market meltdown; companies are desperately trying to save themselves from the red, fighting to gain credit to save their companies from bankruptcies…till the extent that governments have to intervene to save their countries and GDP, not excluding our very own “Singapore Budget”. Even our very own Singapore entrepreneur Osim/Ron Sim is running out of options and time. So why do companies need/want/have to invest in IR/PR? All we need is a STRATEGY.

On the contrary, in times like this, the IR function is valued more than ever. And companies that see the value of IR would splurge, not less, but MORE for strategic financial communications advice. Because of one paramount aspect that many companies currently require today – fund raising exercise. And that’s where our management consulting and investors’ network come in. We are busier than ever. And that’s one STRATEGY.

Investors are shifting their investment strategy and portfolio. Many strategic or long-term investors switch to become value investors over and above fundamentals., and where P/E ratio and NTA per share are vital parameters in buy-in circumstances. It’s not all about the bottom line. It’s about long-term survival and sustainability. The information helps us pitch in a focused manner knowing what risk appetite and criteria. And that’s a change of STRATEGY.

The media inject more negativity than ever, unconsciously injecting biasness as well, that makes media management on practitioner’s side more and more crucial to ensure a neutral to positive article. We need a STRATEGY.

And also with the current state of utter distrust in companies, our role (as what Richard Edelman puts it) is all the more important to counsel and push companies to take an open approach towards continuous investor communication to be a good corporate citizenship. Initiatives like corporate responsibility (CR) exercises play a very strong support case for companies., somehow found most in companies in commodities. That’s a support STRATEGY.

Every door closed meant a window open. Let’s hope companies with good fundamentals can meander their way through the winter and emerge stronger and tougher as ever…so what’s the STRATEGY?

P.S Corporate and consumer PR offer very compelling public relations strategies as well. Re Richard Edelman’s blog at the URL below. <http://www.edelman.com/speak_up/blog/ “Fashion Future” 9 January 2009>

relief

You have no idea how relieved i am feeling now.

2 tests down; 1 assignment done…all to wrap up the term. Sore.

Well, it just means that time is closer towards the day i can call myself a university graduate..

Perhaps, since i plan to keep tonight free from any work, i shall do a little reflash of things that i thought i should have done which i didnt..as an undergraduate.

1. Joining a club. I should have pursued an activity beyond me so that i can venture out and see new things. And have more friends.

2. Cherishing my university friends around me..till now, I feel apologetic towards my very good friend WJ.

3. Studying more in school with friends for studying and bonding purposes. WTH, get a college life.

Three persons i felt like i have to thank..and very much: YS. Thanks for the chocolate eclairs. I wanted only one but you gave me four. I made some pre-conceived judgement of you and i felt terrible. One word. Relentless. XL. You don’t have to wait for me to sleep before you do. You have your own work to do and you are tired too. Don’t be my boxing tool, its not worth it. 3 words. No matter what. QM. My dearest friend. My companion. My support. You don’t have to drive all the way down just to feed me with porridge when i’m sick. I’m no longer a little girl although sometimes i might behave like one. One word. Grateful.

=)

In this world of superficiality, I found my depth. And thats all matters.

Some just matter. But some just don’t.

thanksssss

Alvin spoke to me about the importance of work-life balance and i totally subscribe to this notion as well. Yet, as much as i subscribe heartily to it..my actions seem to contradict what i believe in. The time now is 1.03am as i am typing away, but what have i done today? I do my NM readings for a Thurs test, i do my Biz policy write-up for Friday’s deadline and will be studying Biz policy tomorrow, again for a Thus test as well. Alvin touted that research concluded the four main elements that are important in achieving a quality of life is – friends, work/school, family and community.

I should really comparmentalize my time for all these in a proportionate manner. I can do better. Now i’m missing everything that i covet all these while that i’m busying away – cosy coffee company, mindless movie marathons – antidotes that keep myself going and keeping my self-identity in check.

Today, i messaged a few of my best pals, thanking them for their unconditional bolster all this while..

I shall part with this message once more…

“Even the sun sets, I can now see the moon light.”

Thanks.

To everyone else too.

especially the person who unconsciously became my boxing tool.

I feel sassy, like the girl in 非你莫屬. haha.

.

ZZ, brace yourself up. My heart extends out to you….