Capitals of first-generation professionals: reflecting on professional careers and critically discussing how to deal with social background

Purpose This study aims to develop new approaches grounded in a critical, strengths-oriented analysis rather than viewing first-generation students and professionals through a deficit-oriented perspective. Design/methodology/approach The educational and professional careers of first-generation professionals in Germany are examined through qualitative interviews. Bourdieu's theory of capital serves as a theoretical basis for reflecting not only on the classic perspective of problems and difficulties but also on opportunities and possibilities. Findings Career progressions of first-generation professionals are often associated with a lack of cultural capital (e.g. insecurity about their appearance, lack of expressiveness) or social capital (e.g. professional networks). An important result of this study is that these gaps are counterbalanced by specific capital that has so far been little seen or used in organisations. Research limitations/implications All interviewees live in Germany, so the results can be applied to the German context. Even if the problems of first-generation professionals are comparable across countries such as the UK and the US, further studies should be conducted to support their international transferability. Practical implications For organisations, this means that first-generation professionals do not simply have deficits. It is to recognise that they bring their own capital, which can be harnessed and enrich organisations. Human resources policy instruments must be reviewed and adapted in order to effectively realise performance potential. Social implications Changing perspectives from deficit-oriented to strength-oriented perceptions is important for social recognition. Originality/value This approach offers a new perspective on first-generation professionals and can therefore also yield additional recommendations for action.