Determinants of human capital sustainability in SMEs: the case of the cities of Bucaramanga, Monteria and Palmira

Objetive. To investigate the current state of human capital in small and mediumsized enterprises across several Colombian regions, drawing on research background applied in business activity. Methodology. The research employs a quantitative approach to characterize the structuringof human capital, laborcomposition, roles in human capital positions, and strategies for its improvement in small and medium-sized enterprises. Twenty closed-ended survey questions were used to gather data from a sample of 523 small and medium-sized businesses in the Monteria, Bucaramanga and Palmira regions. Five-point Likert-type frequencyscaleswere employed, previouslyvalidated through expertassessment, achieving a Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient of0.940. The surveywas processed with SPSS software. Results. The findings highlightthe mostrelevant human capital management strategies, the strengths and drawbacks ofvarious recruitment methods, training processes, remuneration schemes, and labor relations. Conclusions. The research posits thatvarious approaches to human capital are influenced by the local culture and the economic capacity of the companies involved. Furthermore, it suggests that in a rapidly changing business environment, managers and those responsible for human capital are vitalfor success through their leadership and training.