Citation

Lakhbir Singh, Sareen Kaur Bhar and Chua, Yong Eng (2025) Language as Career Capital: A Scoping Review of Human Capital Development, Employee Mobility, and HR Implications in Multilingual Organisations. Administrative Sciences, 15 (11). p. 421. ISSN 2076-3387

Text Language as Career Capital_ A Scoping Review of Human Capital Development, Employee Mobility, and HR Implications in Multilingual Organisations.pdf - Published Version Restricted to Repository staff only Download (1MB)

Abstract

This scoping review examines how workplace language proficiency and corporate language policies function as dimensions of human capital, shaping employee mobility and organisational outcomes in multilingual contexts. Drawing on 12 empirical studies (2010–2025), supplemented by one influential review work used for context, the review integrates two analytical lenses: (1) language ceilings and walls, which capture invisible barriers to vertical and horizontal mobility, and (2) the Language Needs Analysis (LANA) framework, which categorises language demands at the individual, organisational, and operational levels. Findings indicate that language proficiency and inclusive language policies act as strategic resources that enhance employability, cross-border collaboration, and knowledge transfer. Conversely, rigid monolingual policies often reproduce inequalities and limit career progression. The review highlights the role of language-sensitive HRM in developing sustainable talent pipelines, advancing diversity and inclusion, and strengthening workforce resilience. Methodologically, this study applies PRISMA-ScR guidelines to ensure transparency and rigour, while offering a framework for future research at the intersection of human capital theory, language policy, and global HRM. By reframing communicative competence as career capital, the review underscores the need to integrate language training and policy design into broader human capital development strategies

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Human capital development, career capital, employee mobility
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD4801-8943 Labor. Work. Working class > HD4861-4895 Labor systems
Divisions:	Learning Institute for Empowerment (LiFE)
Depositing User:	Ms Rosnani Abd Wahab
Date Deposited:	10 Dec 2025 08:13
Last Modified:	13 Dec 2025 15:11
URII:	http://shdl.mmu.edu.my/id/eprint/15048

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