In a Q&A, avoid unfamiliar words in the question

Before

How do I vote if I am a beneficial owner?

Will my shares held in street name be voted if I do not provide my proxy?

Are you householding for stockholders sharing the same address?

Before, with commentary

How do I vote if I am a beneficial owner?

Will my shares held in street name be voted if I do not provide my proxy?

Are you householding for stockholders sharing the same address?

[Each of these questions uses a word that may not be familiar to every investor. If I cannot understand the question, how do I know if it will be worth my time to read the answer? A Q&A certainly can be used to introduce new terminology, but you should use familiar words in the question, and then explain the technical term (if you need it) in the answer.]

After

Q: Who votes: me or my broker?

A: If your shares are registered in your name with our transfer agent, then you are the stockholder of record. If your shares are held in a stock brokerage account or by a bank or other nominee, then your broker, bank, or nominee is the stockholder of record and you are the beneficial owner. As the beneficial owner, you have the right to direct your broker, bank, or other nominee how to vote your shares and you also are invited to attend the annual meeting.

Q. What happens if I do not provide my proxy?

A: If you are the stockholder of record and you do not vote your shares or provide your proxy, your shares will not be counted toward a quorum and will not be voted on any matter that comes before the meeting. If you are the beneficial owner, your brokerage firm, bank, or other nominee has the authority to vote your shares on certain “routine” matters even if you do not provide voting instructions. [answer continues…]

Q. There are several ABC Inc. stockholders in our family. Why did we receive only one package of proxy materials?

A: SEC rules permit us to deliver a single copy of this proxy statement and our 2009 Annual Report to an address shared by two or more stockholders. This method of delivery is referred to as “householding” and can significantly reduce our printing and mailing costs. [answer continues…]