Tacit knowledge is not something you can learn in college or school. It’s an acquired skill set that must be developed over time. In other words, it’s a combination of both experience and education.
Examples of tacit knowledge
Below are 8 examples of tacit knowledge:
1. Innovation and Creativity:
Some people are innovative. However, it is not easy to put their innovative approach on a piece of paper and explain to others how do they come out with creative ideas.
2. Problem Solving:
If you ask most people what problem-solving means, they would probably say “finding solutions.” That definition is very broad and does not capture the essence of what it takes to solve problems effectively.
4. Customer Service Skills:
Most customers don’t know how to evaluate good service. They only know if they were treated well or badly by a business. A business owner who understands their customers and treats them like family is likely to get repeat business.
5. Negotiation Skills:
When we talk about negotiation skills, most people think of getting the better part of the deal. However, a good negotiation should leave both parties feeling like a winner. This is not easy to document the step-by-step process of negotiation.
6. Sales Processes:
Sales processes are generally written down and taught in schools. But, in reality, there are no standard sales cycles. Every company is different. There may be one sales process at one point in time and then another utterly different approach later on.
7. Leadership Skills:
Leadership is mainly learned through observation. People see how successful leaders behave and mimic some behaviours.
8. Relationship Building:
Relationship building builds trust and credibility between two individuals. You build relationships by sharing information, interests, shared values, goals, etc.
Conclusion
In conclusion, tacit knowledge is something that cannot be taught in school. It is acquired through practice and experience. It is also hard to write down and teach. The best way to acquire this type of knowledge is to observe and imitate those who have mastered these skills.
