1. FIFA’s Former VP Wants to Spit

Jack Warner, the vice president of FIFA, resigned this week after facing a bribery inquiry for selling World Cup tickets for profit. When caught in an ambush interview with BBC, Warner demonstrated a lack of media relations savvy when he threatened to spit on one reporter, further harming his reputation. TVG offers media relations training that can prevent your company from getting into a PR disaster like this one. Check out some of our work here.

2. Sir Mix-A-Lot Engages You on Facebook

Sir Mix-A-Lot, famous for his song, “Baby Got Back,” is now the face of Giant Thinkwell’s new Facebook game, Mix n Match. Users are asked either-or questions about celebrities’ preferences (e.g., does Sir Mix-A-Lot prefer dogs or cats?) and earn points for correct answers, which can later be redeemed for virtual items. Celebrities are often pioneers in social media and can push the industry to develop new methods of engagement. What can your company learn from celebrities’ efforts to engage with customers?

3. Mad About Banana Republic

Banana Republic is taking a style cue from the 1960s with their new clothing line inspired by the television series, “Mad Men.”  Although the two brands have worked together before, this is their largest collaboration. The new line hits stores this August and will be branded with both “Mad Men” and Banana Republic logos. Fans of Banana Republic on Facebook will receive exclusive access to the collection one day before it is available to the general public. What other companies have executed successful (or failed) brand collaborations?

4. Obama Will Personally Tweet

In spite of former Rep. Anthony Weiner’s recent Twitter scandal, President Obama has decided to post personal tweets to promote his upcoming presidential campaign. Personal tweets from the president will be marked with his initials, “BO.” Analysts say the president’s Twitter account, which has amassed more than 8.6 million followers, will play an important role in the upcoming election.  How can politicians safely use social media under the heavy scrutiny of political elections?