Victoria's Secret embraces trans models; Google's employee relations makes headlines; Coke defends same-sex ads; and more

MORNING SCOOP

Victoria’s Secret CMO retires after transgender hire, Google employee memo goes viral, and Coke stands firm on same-sex ads

Also: The optimum number of hashtags for social media success, Walgreens to close 200 stores, and Krispy Kreme teams up with Reese’s for a sugary win.

THE WORKPLACE

Study: Insights into modern office mores and social expectations

The hiring practices and cultural climates of U.S. workplaces are rapidly transforming—with serious implications for employees and job seekers.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Infographic: A guide to Instagram ads

The photo-sharing app is a key platform for many campaigns—and it might be worth spending some of your budget on ads. What options do you have to boost your message?

IN MEMORIAM

10 inspiring quotations from Toni Morrison

The Nobel Prize-winning novelist died Monday. Over her long and prolific career, she offered many timeless gems to encourage writers who want to affect the heart.

VIRTUAL SUMMIT

Prove that the pen is sharper than the scalpel

Learn to wield words with surgical precision at this virtual summit.

STORYTELLING

4 storytelling lessons from 100 years of ‘The Hilton Effect’

The hotel chain celebrated a century of business growth by shining a spotlight and crafting content around its biggest champions: Its employees and customers.

The NYT’s headline gaffe, Instagram and WhatsApp rebrand, and Tinder’s harassment lawsuit

Also: Barney’s files for bankruptcy, Cathay Pacific admits using cameras to watch passengers, and how ‘pay to play’ hurts PR’s credibility.

MARKETING

Follow these best practices to create superb marketing videos

Almost every major business and organization uses video to inform and engage consumers. These techniques and focal elements can help you make the most of your visual offerings.

THE WORKPLACE

Infographic: Injecting childlike fun into communication

If the jaded adults on your team have lost their curiosity and creativity, take a page from preschool.

CONTENT MARKETING

When it comes to copyright law, don’t assume you know

Short of asking a lawyer, there are guidelines for avoiding legal jeopardy. We asked a copyright expert about all the things PR pros and clients can run afoul of when creating content.

CONFERENCE ALERT

3 ways to help your executives thrive in the digital world

Discover how to help them create an engaging digital presence during this can’t-miss conference in Washington, D.C.

THE CONSULTANT IS IN

4 reasons why your video failed—and how to fix it next time

Mistakes are OK—beneficial, actually, as long as you learn from them. Follow this expert advice to craft your story, resolve tech glitches and market it wisely. Just hope Chewbacca stays offline.

MORNING SCOOP

Cloudfare dumps 8chan, Walmart won’t bend on guns, and how traditional media leads for decision-makers

Also: HSBC removes chief after just 18 months, why your video didn’t take off, the perils of Twitter, and our weekly caption contest.

EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATION

6 key occasions when your CEO should be the key spokesperson

From crisis communications to unveiling that brilliant new product, your head honcho should recognize these high-profile moments to step up and be the face and voice of your organization.