Life can’t be fun in FIFA’s PR office these days. The world governing body behind soccer – or as most of the world calls it, football – is the subject of two separate, serious investigations into potential criminal wrongdoing. Amid the allegations came a series of public gaffes by former senior FIFA official Jack Warner and current (outgoing) President Sepp Blatter, including:

* Warner referencing an article from The Onion – a satirical news outlet – as fact.

* Warner capping off a news conference by leading a group song-and-dance session to Bob Marley’s “Every Little Thing Is Gonna Be Alright.”

* Blatter insisting he’ll see FIFA through the storm, only to announce his pending resignation five days later.

Each of these instances can serve as teachable moments for anyone who deals with the media, especially in a crisis situation. We can draw lessons from FIFA’s misfortunes about preparing for an interview, striking the right tone and consistency of message.

Click the ‘Play’ button below to hear more in this episode of MediaSmart!