Skilled How HR & learning leaders can build social capital with Greg Pryor
Oct 28, 2025
Greg Pryor, a seasoned human capital leader with experience at Accenture and Workday, dives into the vital role of social capital in career success. He explains how social networks can predict outcomes, using a surprising papal ascension as a case study. Pryor introduces four network patterns—fast movers, shapers, scalers, and risers—and emphasizes the importance of social agility, especially as AI reshapes the workforce. He passionately advocates for HR leaders to cultivate human skills alongside technology, fostering meaningful connections for lasting impact.
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Pope Network Predicted The Surprise Election
- Greg Pryor recounts the papal prediction where network analysis correctly forecasted Cardinal Prevost becoming Pope Leo.
- The researchers found Prevost's network resembled Pope Francis's, predicting his unexpected rise.
Relationships Drive Nearly Half Of Success
- Social capital (relationships) explains about half of individual success alongside human capital.
- Relationships provide access to ideas, influence, feedback, and emotional support that accelerate outcomes.
Build Intentional, Oscillating Networks
- Do build intentional, authentic networks instead of large superficial ones.
- Oscillate between bridging (diverse) and bonding (cohesive) ties to get ideas and deliver work fast.
