3 Knowledge Manager Skills Essential To Success

The specific tasks of an organization’s Knowledge Manager will depend on the size, needs, and capabilities of that organization. For example, some Knowledge Managers will manage large teams while others will be a one-person department. Generally speaking, Knowledge Managers work cross-functionally with departments and teams to establish company knowledge, improve its functionality, establish metrics for its use, encourage the creation and access of company knowledge, and more. While the daily tasks of a Knowledge Manager may differ, there are some key Knowledge Manager skills that can help you succeed in any setting. Below are our top three.

1. Promoting Knowledge Sharing In Appealing Ways

Successful Knowledge Manager skills show, rather than just tell, why knowledge management and knowledge sharing tools will benefit teams and employees. One of their key responsibilities is to drive awareness and adoption of knowledge processes and systems. It is not enough to say “these are the protocols” or even “look at these wonderful tools we have at our disposal.”

Take the time to learn which teams respond best to which communication channels, such as email, face-to-face, team meetings, instant messaging, notes, alerts within the knowledge management tool, or even phone calls. Then make sure you’re providing information and encouragement through that channel in an eye-catching, easy to understand, and helpful way. By practicing these communication habits, a Knowledge Manager can have a direct impact on improving business outcomes through knowledge management adoption.

2. Facilitating Project Review To Create New Company Knowledge

Good Knowledge Managers will take a hands-on approach to developing new company knowledge. For example, after the completion of a project or campaign, the Knowledge Manager could facilitate a review of the lessons learned, good and bad, from the initiative and record their findings in their knowledge management system. This information will help future campaign iterations or similar projects be more productive. The Knowledge Manager should ensure this new knowledge is easy to find and  access within the organization’s knowledge management tool.

3. Personally Connecting With Stakeholders On Knowledge Needs

There are essential soft tactics for Knowledge Managers that display their Knowledge Manager skills well. They need the interpersonal ability to connect with a variety of individuals and teams to understand what those key stakeholders need from their knowledge management system and how they can be an asset to the knowledge management strategy. The Knowledge Manager should feel comfortable connecting with these stakeholders, particularly project leaders. This will allow them to expand an organization’s knowledge offerings and also work with leaders to strategically determine what company knowledge may benefit them on a project or campaign.

Some Knowledge Manager skills may not come naturally, but they can be learned. Knowledge Managers who develop these habits will be a great asset to any organization’s knowledge management strategy and overall success.

As a Knowledge Manager, take the time to understand the habits, needs, and preferences of your stakeholders. This will allow you to communicate more effectively, actively participate in the creation of company knowledge, and employ knowledge management strategies that have a real impact on your company’s success.