In a world of digital transformation: let’s explore external social capital

Social Capital is one of the most powerful resources organizations have. However, research has only focused on the internal perspective of social capital. Given computer-mediated communication and digital transformation, social capital can be derived from many sources. In this commentary, the power of External Social Capital (ESC) is explored. What enables ESC, constrains it, the risks associated with it, and what managers and organizations can do about it are all discussed. Finally, research and teaching opportunities are identified to help facilitate the ESC understanding and usage.