Let's talk about how external companies help worsen the situation. I was reprimanded at EDS for participating in social networks — never mind that I had a personal identity in the industry before I was hired. But for companies like Forrester, individuals typically have access to their publications and the related conversations because of the contracts provided by their employers. Whenever I posted a comment, the comment was labeled with my name and my company — there was no option for me to NOT include the company. With that situation, it does look as if I'm speaking on behalf of the company.

Bringing this to the attention of the Social Media person at Forrester was met with complete denial — that there was a problem. I explained that the only option for me was to not participate in the conversations, which was likely to occur with others, as well.

This of course was secondary to Forrester calling EDS to point out that I had made comments about one of their analysts publicly (without reference to my employer). This backhanded political maneuvering is not only old-school, it's irresponsible in a 'transparent' reality.