Organizations are struggling with implementation of knowledge Management. Finding a one stop strategy that ensure institutionalization of Knowledge Management is always a daunting task, independent of industry or organization’s size. Knowledge management needs people who are passionate about knowledge sharing to act as role models. Developing strategies and policies only asserts knowledge management as the right thing to do and not as practice that not only adds value to the individual but also to the organization. More often than not, staff members do not share knowledge in such environments.
Knowledge Management Champions emerge organically and they are instrumental in keeping up the momentum of knowledge sharing upon development of such initiatives. It will be more profitable for organizations to identify individuals with such behaviors and encourage them into a more prominent role.
Qualities to look for in a Knowledge Management Champion
A good Knowledge Champion is someone who can enforce behaviors yet remain collegial, and knows when to take the lead and when to relinquish control. Additional look for someone who:
- shares knowledge and communicates effectively
- well-respected by the support team and can network across the organization
- helpful and approachable
- proactive problem-solver
- task-oriented and strives to continuously improve
- produces knowledge that others want to use
- culturally sensitive
- sees the big picture at their organization
Responsibilities of the Knowledge Champion
Knowledge Champion is a part-time role, performed in addition to the person’s main responsibilities. There are three main areas where Knowledge champions can make important contributions:
- Advocacy – the Knowledge Champion spreads the KM message among the support team, teaches best practices, delegates KM activity and is the go-to person for KM issues
- Support – the Knowledge Champion can pitch in to approve content when the reviewers don’t have enough time
- Brokering – the Knowledge Champion is the liaison to other departments, suggesting ideas for changes and presenting other departments’ ideas or requests for knowledge to the support team
How to keep Knowledge Champions motivated
While the Knowledge Champion’s job is to keep other knowledge workers motivated, management needs to foster an environment that supports the Knowledge Champion and keeps him or her motivated:
- Clearly define the Knowledge Champion responsibilities (Check our content of KM Champion Job Responsibilities) and how much time to devote to the role (e.g., 4 hours/week)
- Provide visible management support, such as regular update meetings and access to mentors normally reserved for senior managers
- Consider their role as part of their performance management framework. It should contribute to their overall performance when reviews are done
- Give them the autonomy to develop the role and balance it with their regular duties.
- Recognize them for their efforts, for example, in their annual review, with special awards that are announced company-wide and with learning opportunities
Supporting the Knowledge Champion in his or her efforts can go a long way in maintaining a vibrant knowledge program and promoting knowledge sharing culture that keeps your knowledge workers engaged and ensures improved performance.
