Shaping the Knowledge Worker Through a T-shaped Skills Profile Framework

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.34190/eckm.25.1.2461

Keywords:

Knowledge Workers, T-Shaped Skills Profile, Skill Depth, Skill Breadth

Abstract

The paper revisits the concept of knowledge workers using the lens of a T-shaped skills profile. This framework combines breadth and depth of a worker’s knowledge with their skill durability. The T-shaped skill profile represents an individual who combines deep expertise in a field (the vertical bar of the T) with a broad understanding across multiple disciplines (the horizontal bar). This metaphor emphasizes the balance between specialized knowledge and not specialized one. To enhance this approach, a time dimension accounting for the perishability of skills, is integrated. Indeed, the unprecedented changes the last Covid-19 pandemic have brought about in work habits and culture seem to forecast the working habits of the future. Changes, such as a less work-centric behavior and higher flexibility demands, necessitate a better understanding these knowledge workers. 10 interviews have been conducted with knowledge workers from various organizations and sectors. Results show an original inverted pyramid T-shaped skills profile featuring a time dimension following this pattern: (i) Contextual level – Semi durable skills and knowledge; (ii) Foundational level – durable skills and knowledge; (iii) Specialist level – Perishable skills and knowledge. New insights on the nature of these knowledge workers are also provided. This paper contributes to theory by bridging two interesting concepts: the traditional eclectic approach to knowledge workers and the T-shaped skill profile. This research provides valuable insights to managers, supporting the development of effective policies and structures to retain and motivate these specialized employees.

Author Biographies

Yasmina Khadir, Nyenrode Business University

Dr. Yasmina Khadir is an Assistant Professor of Strategy at Nyenrode Business University. She is part of Nyenrode's Faculty Research Center for Strategy, Organisation and Leadership. The three main topics she teaches business strategy, research methods. She is also the Chair of the EMBA Committee and a member of the Assurance of Learning Committee. She completed a PhD at Trinity Business School, Ireland, a Master’s degree at University Pantheon-Sorbonne in Paris and is a Laureate of Ecole Normale Superieure of Paris-Saclay. Yasmina's research interests concentrate in knowledge management and philosophy of social sciences. Her research focuses on the development of a dynamic and holistic knowledge-based theory of the firm.

Hendrik Jan de Weerd, Nyenrode Business University

Rik de Weerd is an experienced freelance IT professional specializing at the intersection of organizational behavior, enterprise architecture, and knowledge work. He holds a BS in Organization & Information from Windesheim and an Executive MBA from Nyenrode Business University. With extensive experience across various industries and organizational types, Rik’s research and professional practice focus on two main areas. Firstly, he explores the demands modern knowledge work places on organizational structures and IT systems. Secondly, he investigates the relationship between corporate strategy and knowledge work. 

Pascale Peters, Nyenrode Business University

Prof. dr. Pascale Peters is Professor of Strategic Human Resource Management at Nyenrode Business University. She is part of Nyenrode's Faculty Research Center for Srategy, Organization and Leadership. She hold the Strategic HRM Chair at Nyenrode. Within this responsibility, Pascale provide students, managers and professionals with up-to-date knowledge and skills through education and training. In this way, she helps them proactively shape effective and ethical HRM and leadership in order to achieve sustainable performance for people, organizations and society.

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Published

2024-09-03