Cultural capital is a key concept in sociological theory, initially coined by French sociologist Pierre Bourdieu. It refers to the collection of symbolic elements such as skills, tastes, posture, clothing, mannerisms, material belongings, credentials, etc. that one acquires through being part of a particular social class. Cultural capital is a significant player in social mobility and in determining who climbs the social ladder and who stays put.

Imagine cultural capital as a backpack, with each item representing a different element of culture or knowledge. The contents of our backpacks vary based on our upbringing, experiences, and education. Everything we carry in our backpacks, from our ability to speak a second language, to our knowledge of different cuisines or our familiarity with classical music, forms part of our cultural capital.

Cultural Capital and Work

Cultural capital can be instrumental to career advancement. For instance, someone who understands international business etiquette, speaks multiple languages, or has a wide breadth of knowledge in their field may be more likely to obtain a high-paying job or secure a promotion.

But cultural capital can also impede career progression. If a person lacks the 'right' type of cultural capital valued in a given context, they can be at a disadvantage. For instance, someone who is unfamiliar with the language or practices of a particular industry, despite being highly competent, might struggle to climb the career ladder.

Let's delve deeper into the three types of cultural capital - embodied, objectified, and institutionalized, and how they can impact your career.

Embodied Cultural Capital

This form of cultural capital consists of both the conscious and unconscious aspects of our cultural learning, including accent, demeanor, knowledge, and skills. It is usually acquired over time and cannot be quickly acquired or transferred.

For example, a person who has grown up in a family of lawyers might have an inherent understanding of the legal profession, its jargon, and its norms. This embodied cultural capital can help them navigate legal careers more easily than someone who is the first in their family to enter the field.

Objectified Cultural Capital

Objectified cultural capital refers to physical items or goods that a person owns, such as artwork, books, or technological devices. These items often require certain cultural competencies to use or appreciate fully.

For instance, owning the latest technological gadgets might be advantageous in tech industries, signaling to others one's knowledge and interest in the field. However, if a person lacks access to or understanding of these technologies, they may face barriers in these career paths.

Institutionalized Cultural Capital

Institutionalized cultural capital refers to formal recognitions of cultural competence, such as academic qualifications or professional certifications. They are a measure of a person's cultural capital that can be used in social exchanges.

Holding a degree from a prestigious university, for instance, can open doors to high-level job opportunities. Conversely, someone without these recognized credentials could experience hindrances in their career advancement, irrespective of their skill level or expertise.

Building and Maintaining Cultural Capital at Work

Building and maintaining cultural capital in a professional setting is a strategic process that can catalyze career advancement and foster a more inclusive workplace environment. Here are some strategies to consider:

1. Continual Learning: Strive to continually expand your knowledge base in your area of work. This could involve reading industry-related books, attending seminars, or enrolling in relevant courses. The more you know, the more valuable your embodied cultural capital becomes.
2. Networking: Building relationships within your industry helps you gain diverse perspectives and insights. These professional connections can open doors to opportunities that might not be available otherwise. Networking can be a key to enhancing your institutionalized cultural capital.
3. Broaden Your Exposure: Experience the diversity of cultures, ideologies, and lifestyles outside your comfort zone. This exposure enhances your understanding and appreciation of different value systems and practices, thereby enhancing your cultural capital.

Remember, cultural capital is not static. It's an evolving portfolio that grows and adapts with you as you navigate through different phases of your career. Therefore, it's important to continuously invest in building and maintaining your cultural capital.

In Conclusion

Cultural capital can act as a double-edged sword, either accelerating or hampering career progression. It is crucial for individuals to recognize their cultural capital and understand how to leverage it effectively in their careers. Similarly, organizations need to value diverse forms of cultural capital to foster an inclusive and dynamic workforce.

‍