Tightening belts in the wrong place

There's a simple rule to follow in investor relations: communicate effectively in good times and bad. Everyone knows it, few follow it. The main problem is that most IROs are human and, after putting the rule through the self-interest filter, it can become a bit distorted. The result? A tendency to communicate wildly and freely when the news is good, but to shuffle around looking embarrassed and quiet when times are tough.And times are undoubtedly tough. The tragic events of September 11 put