The Big Ten Conference (B1G) recently cancelled fall sports. What the announcement of the cancellation lacked was any sort of transparent communication about the reasoning behind the decision. Predictably, this led to confusion, outrage and backlash.

“Stay home, save lives.” Politics aside, we can all appreciate a timely and effective marketing campaign. We admire the lighthearted approach Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot and her team took in spreading awareness about the importance of staying home.

As PR, marketing and communications professionals, the show must go on; it’s our duty to guide the leaders taking our organizations forward, to help them build trust with clear messaging, value-added thought leadership and altruistic intentions.

The myths and misinformation percolating online and particularly in social media related to the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) have taken foolishness to new and dangerous heights. Myths like these endanger people’s lives and well-being, and consumers need to seek out reliable information from trustworthy sources.

When apologizing, being sincere and honest is important.

Twitter – the wonderful world where brand to consumer interaction is readily available and honestly can play big dividends – unless, of course, you choose to mess with the “The Beygency” or “The Beyhive,” the excitable and extremely devoted arm of Beyoncé's loyal online following.

Remember last year when we told you about major brand mishaps when it came to personalized marketing materials? Update: They’re still happening at a rapid fire pace, with brands seemingly eager to upstage one another week after week.