The Knowledge Worker

Abstract

Peter F. Drucker coined the term “knowledge worker” and defined it as a person who primarily uses and produces knowledge and information to perform their work. Unlike workers in traditional industry who perform physical labour, knowledge workers use their mental skills to solve complex problems and make decisions. Drucker described the knowledge worker as an employee who is highly skilled and has a high degree of autonomy. He or she requires little or no direct supervision and is able to organise and plan his or her work independently. Drucker also emphasised that knowledge workers need to be creative and innovative, as they are often confronted with unpredictable challenges and complex tasks. They need to be able to be flexible and react quickly to changes in order to be successful. Overall, Drucker described the knowledge worker as a person who has expertise and skills to use and produce knowledge and information to do his or her job. He or she has a high level of autonomy and creativity to manage complex tasks and adapt to change.