Knowledge workers require a diverse set of 8 core skill categories to be effective in today's knowledge economy, including communication, computing, customer service, leadership, problem solving, process improvement, project management, and teamwork. These skills involve abilities like listening, presenting, marketing, using technology like web/databases, customer service via phone/email/in-person, big picture thinking, managing resources and time as a project manager, and fostering team spirit and relationships. Developing proficiency in these 8 categories through skills such as writing, feedback, research, critical thinking, and continuous improvement is the simple equation that defines a knowledge worker.