Managing Operations Greek Style: How Greek Businesses Flip the Script
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Chapter 1: Understanding the Greek Business Environment
If you've ever encountered the concept of "Greek business," chances are you've come across the beloved film "My Big Fat Greek Wedding."
While it may seem exaggerated, the truth is that Greek businesses have a knack for turning situations upside down—often just for fun. So, why should business be any different?
Let’s dive into the serious side of things. What’s the business climate like in Greece?
In Greece, even a small café becomes a significant enterprise. A corner café with outdoor seating is considered a major business venture. If you run a store with ten employees, congratulations—you’re practically a mogul! People will envy you not just for your "massive" business (laughs), but also because your flashy Porsche Cayenne is a noticeable presence outside your establishment. In Greece, your car often acts as a status symbol; it’s a reflection of your worth.
Typically, the work environment resembles a nostalgic nod to the 1980s, with little emphasis on modern facilities. As long as you have a desk and a chair, it’s all good—just get to work. Small businesses often occupy the limited number of modern buildings available, and while they may not be extravagant, at least they appear decent from the outside. Generally, larger companies tend to inhabit less appealing buildings. But really, who’s paying attention?
After ensuring that your team has clocked in, you can hop into your leased Porsche and head to your next “important” meeting, as confirmed by your assistant: "The boss is out for an important meeting; we have no idea when he'll return."
Section 1.1: The Workforce Dynamics
To be a credible business owner in Greece, you must involve your relatives in some way, even the older generation. Qualifications don’t matter much; it's all about tradition and the familial atmosphere. This leads to workplaces filled with people sharing the same last name.
The owner is the boss, and no one can challenge that. He micromanages every detail, often yelling, “Mina! The paperwork!” as he rushes down the hall, ensuring everyone knows he’s hard at work.
Female bosses are a rarity. The title "General Manager" is common, as he prefers to avoid terms like "director" or "president," which sound too formal. To him, "General" evokes a military leader's authority. In cases where a woman is in charge, it’s usually due to family connections—his wife, sister, or daughter who studied abroad.
In Greece, men dominate the business scene, making up about 80% of the workforce, while women linger at around 20%. The idea of gender equality here seems somewhat distant.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Unwritten Rules
The boss is always right—even when he’s mistaken. Any corrections he makes turn into a “See? I told you so!” He is typically well-educated, but details about his education remain a mystery, leaving an air of uncertainty around his qualifications.
The boss can always afford to be late. He isn’t your average employee, but a figure who seems to materialize and vanish at will. Yet, if you take a two-minute break for a smoke, he appears out of nowhere, asking, “Dimitraki, taking a break already? When will I get those reports?”
To protect himself, the boss distributes tasks among multiple workers, ensuring no one knows who is actually responsible.
Subordinate employees always refer to him as "Mister." Forget about first names! For instance, a vendor might say, "The vendor has arrived, Mr. Kostas," without using a last name.
No one dares interrupt Mr. Kostas while he speaks—except perhaps his family members. He might demand, “Nico, listen up! Why is the inventory so bloated again? Where have you been, you dummies?”
Section 1.2: Meetings and Recruitment
Meetings are a unique experience. The boss is the only one allowed to be late, while everyone else rushes in with, “I can only stay for ten minutes; I have another meeting.”
Recruitment processes are based on connections rather than qualifications. Personal referrals often dictate hiring decisions, and political connections play a significant role. When a candidate reveals their backing, they’re hired without question—no need for interviews or further scrutiny.
If a position is even advertised, the remaining candidates rarely receive any feedback. Greek companies were among the first to adopt autoresponders for job applications, as they prefer not to spend time updating applicants.
Chapter 2: The Challenges of Greek Business Culture
Sexism is prevalent, though it’s often couched in seemingly innocent comments. Employee assessments? What’s that? Annual pay raises? Forget about it. If you’re lucky enough to have a job that pays around $700 a month, you should count your blessings, especially considering the mass exodus of individuals seeking better opportunities abroad.
Marketing strategies are often outdated, with businesses rushing to print brochures. When it comes to information systems, plans for future investments are often vague, as Excel remains the go-to solution for now.
Job promotions? Don’t make me laugh! Given the current economic climate and recent business closures, it’s hardly a priority.
Annual bonuses? Pray that the accountant remembers your name!
Employer branding often consists of generic statements like, “We value our people as our most important asset,” which are clearly lifted from random websites.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Of course, not every Greek adheres to these stereotypes. There are many dedicated, educated, and ethical professionals in Greece who strive for growth and excellence. However, these outdated practices still linger in the Greek work environment and can be quite a cultural shock for outsiders.
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