Staff Turnover and Its Relationship with the Productivity of Commercial SMEs

Abstract

Small and medium-sized commercial enterprises in Guayaquil often face limitations in human talent management, which has a direct impact on their organizational performance. In this context, the present research aims to analyze the relationship between staff turnover and productivity in this type of organization. To this end, a mixed approach is applied that combines quantitative data obtained through surveys and qualitative data collected through interviews with human resource managers. The results reveal that frequent turnover affects operational continuity, delays key processes, and causes excessive workloads for the remaining employees. At the same time, there is a lack of effective talent retention strategies, as well as weaknesses in induction and training processes. As a result, a significant relationship between turnover, productivity, and performance was found. Therefore, it is recommended to strengthen talent management practices through loyalty programs, improvements in the organizational climate, and actions aimed at retaining staff.