I am currently sitting in Orlando, Florida listening to a presentation from Portland General Electric, my old utility company when I lived in Portland.  Huh, Small world.  However, the reason I am in Orlando is for the Gartner BPM Summit.  BusinessGenetics does not have a booth here at the event, but myself and Steve Baker are attending to learn about trends in the industry, network and meet those who are interested in BPM and process improvement.

(Inspired by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross; Derived from Scott Monty.)

1. Denial – The first stage of social media grief in which the individual refuses to acknowledge the existence of social media at all. Although this was more easily accepted in the early days of social networking, there are still plenty of people still stuck and 'holding out' in this stage.
   
   Common phrases: "It's just a kid's thing," or "It's just a fad."
   Common behaviors: Avoiding the Internet, putting hands over ears and singing "I can't heeeeeaaaarr yoooouuuuu. La la laaaaa."
    
2. Anger - Once in the second stage, the individual recognizes that denial cannot continue. Anger manifests itself through misplaced feelings of rage and envy. Individuals often project resentment and jealousy towards others engaged in social networking.
   
   Common phrases: "This is stupid, I've got better things to do with my time" or "You can't expect me to learn another tool."
   Common behaviors: Slave to work email as means of communication, hoarding organization knowledge, undermining or debunking others usage.
    
3. Bargaining – The third stage involves the hope that the individual can somehow postpone or delay engaging in social networking. Eventually, their anger gives way to hope that incremental adoption of social media will be enough to make a difference.
   
   Common phrases: "Once I finish 'X' then I'll have time to really learn more about this stuff" or "If I sign up for a LinkedIn account I should be covered and people will leave me alone".
   Common behaviors: Half hearted efforts to use a limited number of social networks. Narrow contribution and sharing of one's knowledge and expertise.
    
4. Depression -The fourth stage manifests itself in an understanding that the inevitable cannot be delayed and the individual becomes glum.
   
   Common phrases: "Twitter/LinkedIn/Facebook is taking over the world," or "I'm overwhelmed with choices."
   Common behaviors: Moping and complaining to friends on Facebook.
    
5. Acceptance -With the final stage, the individual finally realizes that social media is here to stay and begins to determine ways to integrate activities and craft strategies that are truly integrated.
   
   Common phrases: "How can I use this stuff to make my work easier/more effective/more satisfying" or "I want to spend some time listening to what clients/competitors are saying about us."
   Common behaviors: Integrated efforts in marketing and communications functions, determination of measurable KPIs, online and offline alignment from the beginning of projects.

I'll admit that I had initially decided to subscribe to "Jane's e-Learning Pick of the Day"