Social capital in the success of knowledge workers

Abstract

The concept of social capital will be key to individual and organizational success throughout the twenty‐first century. Social capital is the stock of accumulated resources that one can access based on the relationships that can aid or be leveraged in accomplishing an end or furthering a pursuit. Several attributes of social capital are explored that distinguish it from other forms of capital; namely, physical, financial, human, market, intellectual, and knowledge capital. These attributes considered are capital’s transferability, controllability, fungibility, entropy, and synergy. Implications for career development and one’s ability to contribute to organization effectiveness are discussed, as well as management practices affecting the development of social capital. Concludes with propositions for future research.