Competences
People's actions are determined by their thinking and their perception of situations. We support the social acceptance of decisions and measures with an impact on stakeholder groups by communicating facts clearly, truthfully and comprehensibly. We see ourselves as mediators of legitimate interests with a holistic approach to communication.
BOC Consult is supported by experienced consultants with CVs in business, politics and the capital market.
What we do
Stakeholder Communication for M&A
Mergers and acquisitions are an extraordinary event where the parties need resources and expertise that are not usually available for regular business within the company. It is important to identify the relevant stakeholders and understand their interests. A clear rationale forms the basis of every M&A. This results in a narrative and the key messages as well as a Q&A. The planning and consistent implementation of reach-out programs is the next step. This includes shareholders, supervisory boards, works councils, trade unions, managers, employees, customers, regulators, politicians and banks. Particularly in Phase II reviews at EU level, the market must also understand the added value created by merged companies. At national level, all responsible antitrust authorities must understand why no restriction of competition is to be expected. Information must be communicated to all target groups, concerns must be understood and social acceptance and, above all, trust must be gained. BOC Consult is very experienced in close cooperation and coordination with investment banks and international law firms.
Learn more and read about 10 key points in an M&A process here.
Communication to Shareholders and Capital Markets
Companies need investment funds from the capital market and banks. But what ist the risk level of such investments in IPOs, capital increases and borrowing? How trustworthy and reliable is the company's management? How transparent is the reporting and disclosure? What quality of forecasts does the company provide? What product or legal risks exist? Interest rates are the price of the risk. If risks are presented in a transparent and manageable manner, the burden on the financial result is reduced. BOC Consult advises companies on transparency campaigns in the area of corporate governance, on processes with social and societal relevance and on the realistic presentation of environmental protection initiatives. We provide support in preparing for annual general meetings and investor days, in preparing equity stories, in C-level speeches and in communicating management changes to build confidence.
Competitors, activist investors and short sellers see opportunities to build a position particularly in weaker phases of companies or markets. In these phases, it is crucial to strengthen confidence in the corporate strategy and the management team at an early stage. However, this also means seriously examining every well-founded proposal and considering whether it could create sustainable value. BOC Consult supports companies in communicating the company's position to relevant stakeholders from politics and the capital market. This involves an appropriate presentation and consideration of legitimate interests.
Defense Mandates
Political office holders and decision-makers rely on the expertise of the economy. Only when the competence of the markets is integrated into regulatory initiatives in a transparent process do they lead to balanced and effective regulations. BOC Consult advises companies on knowledge dissemination and utilizes its network to create communication channels. Where necessary, our partners are registered in the Federal Republic's lobbying register.
Public Affairs
Communicative Support for Labor Relations
There are always points of friction in the cooperation between the social partners. This is not only the case in the jurisdiction of Germany, where the two-tier board structure grants works councils and the employee bench on supervisory boards extensive co-determination and information rights. In its mandates, BOC Consult advises an appropriate balance of interests and relies on constructive negotiations between the social partners with the involvement of the trade unions. However, where conflicts are unavoidable, at least temporarily, and the means of industrial action and the rule of law are used, we also support the formation of opinion among employees with information campaigns. We help to develop messages in language that is appropriate for the target group. However, our communication approaches are always guided by the guiding principle of enabling all parties to return to the negotiating table in a face-saving manner.
External or internal crises can expose companies to shocks. Causes sometimes include market disruptions, direct attacks, accidents, or even misplanning and misconduct by individuals. It always depends on knowing one's risks well and being thoroughly prepared for various scenarios. BOC Consult supports companies in scenario planning and the creation of crisis manuals. We train executives and simulate crisis scenarios. We help reduce response times to be able to act quickly and purposefully. We enhance resilience. In escalated cases, we assist in reducing legal risks through direct and transparent communication.
Crisis Communication
Strong brands are more resilient during attacks and weak market phases. This is measurable not only directly in special situations through customer or employee surveys or in the development of market capitalization. BOC Consult advises companies on brand development and increasing awareness, as well as safeguarding against reputation damage. To achieve this, we utilize proven instruments such as brand growth strategies, outside/in analyses, or value-based moral coding approaches.