HIRING GREEK EMPLOYEES IN GREECE - WORTH THE INVESTMENT?


And now we have 7 employees working in Greece. We are not chasing the local market in Greece. They work for us. If you think, other countries have outsourced labor markets. I want Greece to be that for us.
— George Stroumboulis

HIRING GREEK EMPLOYEES IN GREECE IS WORTH THE INVESTMENT ON SO MANY LEVELS

With regards to Greece, now is a good time to open an office and to make it official. We launched 1 year ago with a launch party at the Lalaounis Museum right under the Acropolis. 

And now we have 7 employees working in Greece. We are not chasing the local market in Greece. They work for us. If you think, other countries have outsourced labor markets. I want Greece to be that for us.

We have people here with degrees, they think differently, that European mindset. They have that passion. Whatever they do they want it to be perfect.

Let them say about the Greeks what they say. It's about that. The office we opened in Athens is growing, and we have won projects in Greece like new large hotels.

---

ΠΡΟΣΛΗΨΗ ΕΛΛΗΝΩΝ ΕΡΓΑΖΟΜΕΝΩΝ ΣΤΗΝ ΕΛΛΑΔΑ

Όσον αφορά την Ελλάδα, τώρα είναι η κατάλληλη στιγμή για να ανοίξετε ένα γραφείο και να το επισημοποιήσετε. Ξεκινήσαμε πριν από 1 χρόνο με ένα launch party στο Μουσείο Λαλαούνη ακριβώς κάτω από την Ακρόπολη. Και τώρα έχουμε 7 υπαλλήλους που εργάζονται στην Ελλάδα. 

Δεν κυνηγάμε την τοπική αγορά στην Ελλάδα. Δουλεύουν για εμάς. Αν νομίζετε, άλλες χώρες έχουν αναθέσει σε εξωτερικούς συνεργάτες τις αγορές εργασίας. Θέλω η Ελλάδα να είναι αυτή για εμάς. Έχουμε ανθρώπους εδώ με πτυχία, σκέφτονται διαφορετικά, αυτή η ευρωπαϊκή νοοτροπία. Έχουν αυτό το πάθος. Ό,τι και να κάνουν θέλουν να είναι τέλειο. Ας λένε για τους Έλληνες ότι λένε. 

Πρόκειται για αυτό. Το γραφείο που ανοίξαμε στην Αθήνα μεγαλώνει και έχουμε κερδίσει έργα στην Ελλάδα σαν νέα μεγάλα ξενοδοχεία.

ΠΡΟΣΛΗΨΗ ΕΛΛΗΝΩΝ ΕΡΓΑΖΟΜΕΝΩΝ ΣΤΗΝ ΕΛΛΑΔΑ


BENEFITS OF HIRING GREEK EMPLOYEES IN GREECE?

Hiring Greek employees in Greece can offer several benefits for businesses operating in the country. Some of the advantages of hiring Greek employees include:

  1. Local Expertise: Greek employees have a deep understanding of the local market, culture, and business environment, which can be invaluable for companies seeking to establish a presence in Greece.

  2. Language Skills: Greek employees are typically fluent in the Greek language, which is essential for effective communication with local customers, clients, and partners.

  3. Cultural Awareness: Greek employees can provide cultural insights and adapt business strategies to align with local customs and expectations, helping companies navigate the Greek market successfully.

  4. Network and Contacts: Greek employees often have established professional networks and contacts within the country, which can be beneficial for business development, partnerships, and market expansion.

  5. Legal and Regulatory Knowledge: Greek employees are familiar with local laws, regulations, and administrative processes, which can streamline compliance and help businesses avoid legal issues.

  6. Customer Relationship Building: Greek employees can establish and maintain relationships with local customers, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

  7. Market Insights: Greek employees can provide valuable market insights, trends, and consumer preferences, which can inform product development, marketing strategies, and decision-making.

  8. Ease of Recruitment: Hiring local talent can be more straightforward in terms of recruitment processes, as there are no visa or work permit requirements for Greek citizens.

  9. Language Support: Greek employees can provide language support for business documents, customer service, and internal communication, reducing language barriers.

  10. Economic Contribution: Employing Greek workers contributes to the local economy, supporting businesses and helping to reduce unemployment rates in the country.

  11. Local Knowledge of Suppliers: Greek employees may have knowledge of local suppliers, vendors, and logistical solutions, which can facilitate the procurement of goods and services.

  12. Strong Work Ethic: Greek employees often exhibit a strong work ethic and dedication to their roles, contributing to business productivity and efficiency.

It's important to note that when hiring Greek employees in Greece, businesses should be aware of labor laws and employment regulations, including working hours, wages, and benefits. Additionally, it's beneficial to establish clear employment contracts and policies to ensure a positive working relationship with local employees.

Overall, hiring Greek employees in Greece can be advantageous for businesses seeking to establish a presence or expand their operations in the country, as it allows for a better understanding of the local market and the ability to tap into the skills and expertise of the local workforce.

what does the labor force look like in greece?

The labor force in Greece had undergone significant changes and challenges due to economic issues and the impact of the global financial crisis. Here's an overview of what the labor force in Greece looked like at that time:

  1. Unemployment: Greece faced high unemployment rates, particularly among the youth and long-term unemployed. The financial crisis that began in 2008 had a severe impact on the Greek labor market, leading to job losses and reduced opportunities.

  2. Underemployment: Many Greeks were underemployed, meaning they were working part-time or in jobs that didn't match their skills or qualifications.

  3. Labor Market Reforms: The Greek government had introduced labor market reforms to address some of the challenges, including making it easier for businesses to hire and fire employees and promoting more flexible work arrangements.

  4. Informal Economy: Greece had a significant informal economy, with a portion of the workforce engaged in unregistered or undeclared work. This had implications for taxation and social security contributions.

  5. Public Sector Employment: The public sector in Greece was relatively large compared to the private sector, which contributed to economic challenges and budgetary issues.

  6. Labor Strikes: Labor strikes and protests were not uncommon in Greece, with various sectors, including public sector employees, often engaging in industrial action to protest austerity measures and labor reforms.

  7. Skilled Workforce: Greece had a well-educated and skilled workforce, with high levels of university education. However, there was often a mismatch between the skills possessed by the labor force and the jobs available.

  8. Emigration: Some Greeks had emigrated in search of better job opportunities, particularly during the peak of the economic crisis.

  9. Seasonal Employment: Seasonal employment, particularly in the tourism industry, was a common feature of the Greek labor market.

Economic and labor market conditions can change over time, and government policies and external factors can influence the employment landscape. It's advisable to consult more recent sources and reports for the most up-to-date information on the labor force in Greece.

hOW DIFFICULT ARE THE LABOR LAWS IN GREECE AS A BUSINESS OWNER?

The labor laws in Greece, like in many countries, can be complex and may present certain challenges for business owners. It's important to understand the labor regulations and requirements when operating a business in Greece. Here are some key points to consider:

  1. Employment Contracts: Greek labor law requires written employment contracts for all employees. These contracts should specify terms and conditions, including working hours, wages, benefits, and other relevant details. Failure to provide proper employment contracts can result in legal consequences.

  2. Working Hours: Greek labor law regulates working hours, breaks, and rest periods. The standard working week is typically 40 hours, and overtime pay is required for additional hours worked.

  3. Minimum Wage: Greece has a minimum wage, which is periodically adjusted by the government. Business owners must ensure that they pay their employees at least the minimum wage.

  4. Employee Benefits: Greek labor law mandates various employee benefits, including paid leave, public holidays, and social security contributions. Employers are responsible for complying with these requirements.

  5. Collective Bargaining: Greece has a strong tradition of collective bargaining, and many labor conditions are influenced by sector-specific collective agreements negotiated between employers and trade unions.

  6. Redundancy and Termination: Labor laws in Greece can make it challenging to terminate employees, as they prioritize job security. The process for terminating an employee can be complex and may require compliance with specific legal procedures and justifications.

  7. Unions and Strikes: Trade unions are prevalent in Greece, and labor strikes are not uncommon. Business owners may need to navigate negotiations with unions and potential disruptions caused by strikes.

  8. Social Security Contributions: Employers are required to make social security contributions on behalf of their employees. These contributions cover healthcare, pensions, and other benefits.

  9. Employment of Foreign Nationals: Hiring foreign employees may involve additional considerations, such as obtaining work permits and visas.

  10. Labor Inspections: Labor authorities conduct inspections to ensure compliance with labor laws. Non-compliance can lead to fines and legal consequences.

  11. Business Registration and Taxation: Business owners need to register their businesses with the relevant authorities and adhere to tax regulations, including payroll taxes and contributions.

While Greek labor laws can be intricate, they are in place to protect the rights of employees and maintain labor standards. To navigate these laws successfully, business owners in Greece may find it beneficial to consult with legal and HR professionals who are knowledgeable about local labor regulations. It's important to stay informed about any changes in labor laws and adapt business practices accordingly.


INVIGORATE YOUR BUSINESS PODCAST


OTHER BLOGS