“I’m not that kind of guy.” The terrified smile suggested this man of influence and considerable decision making authority had considered the question, decided against it, and would not, for any reason, be persuaded to change his behavior. The firm stance would have been perfectly appropriate if the individual were facing any of the inappropriate proposals businesspeople are often handed. This time, however, the question was, “How does your company employ social media?”

Technology is moving so fast that it can seem like one of those sound barriers along the freeway. It divides. And those who suddenly realize they are on the wrong side of the barrier are slow to move forward and are hard-pressed to find a way over or around the wall.