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Managing Knowledge Workers: Unleashing Innovation and Productivity A.D. Amar Quorum Books (2002) 249 pages, hardcover, $65.00 Reviewed by: Kim Anderson, Nova Southeastern University Synopsis Today's knowledge workers - Generations X and Y - are changing the rules of work and work behavior. They grew up learning on their own while becoming comfortable with technology and independence at a young age. For knowledge workers, it's all about the work and the work environment. They are different from their predecessors; their attitudes are different, they're motivated differently, and changing their learning behaviors requires new techniques. To assume that members of these generations are just like other employees would be a fatal error committed by the hiring firm. Knowledge organizations should have a strong understanding of the mind and behavior of Generations X and Y, and of how to avail themselves of the potential these generations have to offer. If managers are to unleash the unprecedented innovation and productivity potential of these generations, they must learn what makes them tick. Seton Hall Professor A.D. Amar provides an in-depth look into these generations and identifies the unique contributions they make to an organization. Amar doesn't just say that managing knowledge workers requires new management techniques; he suggests new approaches and special adaptations of existing techniques that work in organizations operating in knowledge environments. Amar says that once the knowledge organization managers have understood their employees' minds, behaviors and social surroundings, they should redesign the work that is given to them. The most productive knowledge organizations align the work with the worker. Understanding the difference between knowledge work and traditional work, particularly as they apply to Generations X and Y employees, is critical. Amar maintains that knowledge work is work that is desired by these employees, rather than work that is performed to collect a paycheck. He includes instruments that could be used to understand and map the work, and work environment, to suit the organization. Readability The readability of this book rates a six on a scale of one to ten (ten requiring intense concentration). This is not a pick a chapter you like then start reading kind of book. The initial chapters provide the necessary background to understanding knowledge worker demographics. Each chapter builds on the one before, providing practical tools and instruments to guide the reader through knowing how to optimize knowledge workers' innovation and productivity potential. Recommended Audience The audience for this book includes those interested in organizational management and leadership. It would be especially useful for instructors of management courses to provide a perspective on techniques for managing knowledge workers. If you are a manager, or even a parent of younger generations, you will learn what will and will not be effective when trying to motivate and supervise them. Conversely, if you are a Generation X or Y knowledge worker, you will gain insight regarding how to be more accommodating to your older generation managers and coworkers as they try to change the workplace to accommodate you. Most Interesting Part Amar states that the work behavior of knowledge workers will present a daunting challenge of unequaled proportion to psychologists, behaviorists, and organizational researchers. …
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