Winner interview Klaus-Anders Nysteen, HOIST FINANCE – CEO’s on Twitter, Mid Cap

augusti 31, 2020

Winner interview Klaus-Anders Nysteen, HOIST FINANCE – CEO’s on Twitter, Mid Cap

Why map tweeting CEOs?

Since the start of Box Communications 10 years ago, when the digital transformation was still in its infancy, we have followed how the new digital channels affect the companies' communication. With long experience from the financial industry, we could see that the listed companies in particular and their CEOs live in a new exciting, and somewhat unsafe environment when information is spread faster and faster to virtually all stakeholders at the same time.

Many believe that the pandemic we are currently experiencing has further accelerated the digital transition. As more and more people get used to communicating digitally, whether it is via audio, video, film, or text, the pressure will increase on companies not only to be digital internally but to incorporate it into all communication as well. And to get quick internal acceptance and a significant external impact, the management must show the way, and Twitter can act as a starting point.

We do this survey to highlight good role models who can hopefully be an inspiration for others to follow.

Winner interview - Klaus-Anders Nysteen

In connection with the corona pandemic, digital communication has reached entirely new levels, how has it affected your internal and external communication work?

During the corona era, we have all had to adapt our communication to a new reality. Internally, we have communicated more than ever. Above all, the closest manager has been the most important source of information, and therefore we have used MS Teams to maintain regular contact with all teams. We also use Facebook's Workplace, a social intranet, where engagement has increased sharply. I think everyone realizes that internal communication is incredibly important, and that the situation has made this a priority more than before.

We use Twitter as a starting point for our survey, but which other channels do you use, and which ones work best?

I primarily use Twitter and Linkedin. I see Facebook more like a private channel. In the spring, my new CEO blog was also launched on hoistfinance.com, where I have the opportunity to write a little longer reflections and updates to our stakeholders. In the end, however, I believe that personal contact works best; therefore, Teams have been an important channel for us where you can see and hear each other, which contributes to a better conversation.

Social media, not least Twitter, is often criticized for spreading threats and hatred. As a tweeting CEO, is this something you recognize?

It is a low threshold for spreading false and negative messages on social media. When you physically meet, communication is entirely different. I am pleased that fact-finding is on the list to reduce the spread of lies and alternative facts. It is crucial that the truth comes out and that those who read my posts on social media can trust what I have written. I do not write or share anything based on alternative facts or lies. Truth builds both trust and respect.

Today, about 15% of the stock exchange's CEOs are on Twitter. From your perspective, should there be more, and if so, why?

I believe CEOs must communicate and have a voice in the public discussion. Too many people have too little to say, it would be good for the public debate if CEOs could speak up if they have an opinion about something. The choice of channel for communication can be different, but I think that Twitter represents an essential source of information and knowledge. I, therefore, encourage more people to be active on this platform.