Over the years, our team here at JDJ Creative have created countless annual reports, and during that time we have learned a lot about what works and what does not.
This guide will enable companies to create impactful reports that convey clear messages, drive positive change and align workforces to reach desired goals.
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1. Why create an exceptional annual report
2. Planning your report
3. Choosing the right channel
4. Design pointers
5. The JDJ process
6. Disseminating your annual report
Why create an exceptional annual report?
At its core, an annual report is a reflection of the previous financial year’s performance. It shows existing stakeholders, potential investors and other interested parties how well your company has performed over the preceding 12 months.
But an exceptional annual report can be so much more than a sterile list of accounts.
It can be inspirational and unique. For when you create a powerful annual report, you differentiate yourself from your competition and enhance your sector standing. While your competitors produce functional reports, you have the opportunity to make a statement that will impress.
Furthermore, a successful report can attract talent to your company. When you include a well-written purpose statement, you connect people with your company’s vision and values. It’s a motivational tool and a talent lead all in one.
The importance of purpose in business
Companies with a clear sense of purpose are able to build more meaningful relationships with their customers, employees and shareholders.
They can inspire and motivate the people within their organisation, create higher levels of productivity and produce a sense of being part of something worthwhile and for the greater good.
An annual report offers a unique platform for communicating your purpose with a number of different stakeholders. From shareholders and employees to competitors and the general public, your audience will read your report for different reasons.
By displaying your purpose — why you exist — through effective storytelling across all pages, you will be able to increase brand trust and create deep connections across your audience.
