Want to get crucified during (or after) a media interview? Do or say something considered politically incorrect.

These days there are a number of special interest groups and individuals just looking to be offended by a remark in the media they consider offensive. When that happens social media takes over and will relentlessly pound on you and your organization.

A Senatorial candidate is currently being pummeled over her perceived slight with gestures referring to Indians. She has been tried and found guilty by the media and her candidacy is all but over despite her numerous apologies.

A friend once did a TV interview where he mentioned that a family member was diabetic. That set off alarms with certain interest groups because a “person is not defined by a disease.” The person was not a diabetic. He should have said the family member “happens to have diabetes.”

While persons entering the country used to be referred to as “illegals,” that term is now been changed to “undocumenteds.” Of course, no one other than African-Americans can use the dreaded “N” word, but that also has been extended to the term “thugs” when referring to rioters and looters.

Another word that never should be used is “Nazi” in any reference other than the Germans and war. The same goes for “retarded” when referring to folks with learning disabilities or “Orientals,” which are now referred to as Asians.

At times people use words that they are unaware could be offensive. A TV anchor in Cleveland recently used the word “jigaboo” on the air regarding a Lady Gaga performance and was promptly suspended even though she had no knowledge of the background of the word (LINK).

A brewery in Kansas City once installed a billboard (below) with a number of beers featured and featured the famous children’s counting rhyme,”Eeny, Meeny Miny, Moe” over it.

The billboard was up for weeks until an African-American columnist with the Kansas City Star happened to see it and said it was racist. He said the line “Catch a Tiger By the Tail” in the rhyme was said by some people decades ago as “Catch a N—- by the Tail.”

Of course, no one at the brewery’s ad agency were even aware they were offending anyone. The brewery quickly removed the offensive billboard.

There are a number of other terms that will get interviewees in hot water. If you have others please feel free to share them with me.

Until then, it is important for folks to be aware that the words they say in a media interview can have serious consequences. Think before you speak!!