“Over-communicate in a crisis” – Jack Welch, former CEO of General Electric.  When United Airlines was forced to file for bankruptcy in December 2002, this sage advice served as the centerpiece of the company’s efforts to revive one of the most well-known and respected brands in the world. On the same day that United filed for bankruptcy protection in federal court, CEO Glenn Tilton flew to Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport to explain the company’s decision to customers ... Read More

The Chinese government’s decision to allow foreign news correspondents to interview anyone without prior permission is a major milestone for journalists around the world. But just as significant as the free press implications are the new challenges that this development creates for Chinese companies in crisis. Whether the issue has been melamine in baby formula and pet food or lead paint in toys, Chinese companies used to be able to shade themselves from the spotlight under ... Read More

In all of my dealings with corporate general counsels over the years, I’ve learned that the most effective and talented of the bunch share one common quality – the ability to anticipate legal and business issues lurking around the corner and thus limit exposure. These counselors have their fingers on the pulse. And as such, they offer their bosses in the boardroom and C-Suite what they often need most – a glimpse at what’s next. Ten ... Read More

While John McCain may think that Andrew Cuomo would be a fine choice for the next SEC Chairman, the fiery and politically-astute Democratic Attorney General of New York State has no intention of waiting on election returns to get involved in one of the most significant financial crises of our lifetime. Last week, the Wall Street Journal reported that Mr. Cuomo has begun a “wide ranging investigation into short selling in the financial market.” In the ... Read More

Yesterday, the September issue of Levick’s monthly e-newsletter, High Stakes, was published and I’d like to invite all the readers of Bulletproof to check it out. This month’s focus is on the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, and the communications strategies that can diminish the impact of an investigation or keep an international company out of hot water all together. With the number of FCPA prosecutions carried out by the U.S. government doubling between 2006 and 2007 – ... Read More

This week, The New York Times editorial board called on Rep. Charles Rangel (D-NY) to give up a Committee Chairmanship, while allegations of unpaid taxes are investigated by the House ethics committee. Adding to the embarrassment, the panel Rangel oversees is the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, which writes the nation’s tax laws. Clearly, Rangel is now faced with some taxing problems. Initially, the Congressman’s response to the crisis was as unusual as it was brilliant. ... Read More