After some really hard years, the Greek economy is recovering. After overcoming the pandemic, the outlook was very good, but unfortunately the war between Russia and Ukraine is slowing down GDP growth, which is, however, expected to increase by 3.5% in 2022, and similar growth is expected in 2023. But it is hard to find work in Greece.
The country’s economy depends on the services sector, which accounts for more than 80% of Greece’s GDP. Among them, tourism stands out (20% of GDP), which, together with related sectors, employs 20-25% of the population.
The unemployment rate is declining, from 17% in 2020 to 13% in 2021, and a further decline is expected in the current year.
Salaries in Greece are generally low, keep in mind that the minimum monthly salary set by law is €713.00 (gross).
The only lucky ones are the public sector employees who, despite the salary cuts during the crisis, are still well paid and always above the minimum wage. They work little and are paid on time.
Searching for jobs in Greece
The Greek labor market is certainly not the best. Although the economic situation is recovering, it is not easy to find a job. In fact, Greece today has the highest unemployment rate in the entire European community. The youth unemployment rate is also very high. The only jobs that a foreigner can find relatively easily, unless he has exceptional skills, are:
- Call center jobs, in Greece, due to low labor costs, there are a lot of BPO companies that are constantly looking for native speakers
- Hospitality and tourism jobs, Greece is one of the most popular destinations during the summer season. This means that if you have a minimum of experience, speak at least English and are satisfied with a low salary, you will have no problems finding work on the mainland or better yet on an island
Remember that you must have a social security number (AMKA) in order to work. Otherwise, you cannot work legally, but are forced to take only illegal jobs, with all the risks, especially that of not being paid.
Here are some websites for finding work:
- Kariera, popular website
- Jobs-Greece, job search engine
- Jobtrust, vacancies in hospitality
- Job in Athens, vacancies in Athens
Searching for jobs in Greece, most in-demand jobs
The sectors that currently offer the most job opportunities in Greece are:
- IT (Software developers, cybersecurity specialists, programmers, etc.)
- Engineering, (mechanical and electronic engineers, etc.)
- Tourism, (waiters, cooks, etc.)
Work culture in Greece
The work culture in Greece is still based on a strong hierarchy, and the chances of finding a good job are proportional to your acquaintances. The more important the people you can rely on, the easier it will be to find a job.
At work, Greeks, like all Mediterranean people, tend to get to know new colleagues right away, they will immediately address you by name and also want to know all aspects of your personal life, this should not bother you, it is part of their way of life. They will even be happy if you take an interest in their lives as well.
Forget about punctuality, both in your personal life and at work, you never have to expect them to be on time for appointments, just know that they will come.
Searching for jobs in Greece, conclusion
In summary, it is hard to find a job in Greece, working hours can be long, wages are low and if you lose your job it can be an odyssey to find a new one. You will have to deal with bureaucracy, which despite some improvements is still a big problem for the country, even for the simplest things you will have to fill out forms and papers.
And do not think that the cost of living is so cheap relative to salaries. A studio rent in Athens can easily cost you €350/400 per month, and a bus ticket costs €1.40, which is not cheap considering the salary level.
But how can the Greeks survive? Many Greeks receive a salary of €700 but still live with their parents. The Greek family is very close, and even when Greeks are married, they usually live near their parents. Greek grandparents take care of their grandchildren, so there is no cost for childcare and babysitting. All family members help and support each other. This is the only way they can live.
Still, life in Greece is not as bad as one might think at first glance. Sure, the days of fat cows are over, but if you can find a job that allows you to live a decent life, the warmth of the people and a stress-free life will be worth your choice.
If you want all the information on how to work in Greece I suggest you read the article: Working in Greece
