He earned his PhD in communication (with cognates in organizational communication and organizational behavior) from Michigan State University, where he also earned his MBA with a concentration in personnel and human relations. Susskind's research is based primarily in organizational communication and organizational behavior. He is currently researching: (a) the influence of customer–service provider interaction as it relates to organizational effectiveness and efficiency from the perspective of guests, employees and managers; and (b) the influence of communication network relationships upon individuals' work-related attitudes and perceptions surrounding organizational events and processes such as teamwork and downsizing.