Professor addresses the gap in communications literature

December 13, 2021

Headshot of Professor Alexander Laskin

Professor Alexander Laskin, Ph.D., recently published an academic book focused on the complexities of investor relations.

The book, titled “Investor Relations and Financial Communication," provides a comprehensive evaluation and introduction to the investor relations and financial communication profession.

Laskin explains that he hopes his book will address a gap in communications literature.

“Investor relations is the highest specialization in the strategic communications field - yet we do not much about it. It is rare when investor relations receive comprehensive treatment: often, it is split between accounting for the focus on the financial disclosure, finance with a focus on the value of investments, or public relations that focus on publicity and marketing,” said Laskin. “Yet, investor relations deserve to be treated as a whole due to its importance in modern society.”

Laskin recommends this book to anyone who wants to start a career in investor relations. The book provides a solid foundation for continued education in the field. The book covers topics such as what jobs are available, explanations of disclosure practices, sustainability, crisis management and other related topics.

Laskin hopes many will take away useful knowledge from his book.

“I want people to learn how important investor relations are, not just for the corporations but the whole modern economy- from the retired teacher reshuffling their 401k to billionaires who want to change the world,” he said.

Laskin started his book in 2006 as part of his dissertation; however, he did most of the writing during the COVID-19 pandemic, working on it from the summer of 2020 to the summer of 2021. Laskin explained that he enjoyed the writing process and found joy in finding current examples throughout the writing process.

“As I was writing about how social media can affect the disclosure practice of corporations, Elon Musk would tweet something about Tesla and get under investigation by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission,” said Laskin.

Laskin is currently working on other book ideas, having more than 10 book projects in his head.

“I doubt I have enough summers in my life to finish them all,” he stated.

Laskin recommends his book for all individuals in a professional development training program.

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