Greece

Greece.

Here are some basic facts about Greece

* Capital: Athens

* Total Population: 10,767,827

* Total Area: 131,957 square kilometers

* Literacy Rate: 99%

* Urban Population: 61.4%

Greek Culture – Key Concepts and Values

Family

The family is the basic social unit in Greek society, closely followed by the village. Loyalty to family is paramount and put ahead of all business interests. Interruptions such as phone calls at work caused by an individual’s family are common and not seen as disturbance. Nepotism is acceptable in Greece. Family members will often help each other find jobs. It is not unusual for multiple family members to work in the same company.

Personal Relationships

Personal relationships are extremely important in Greece. People in Greece take a sincere interest in others and spend a lot of time socializing. Successful business often depends on trust and personal relationships rather than qualifications and performance. Greeks like to do business with people they know. The first business meeting they have with your Greek colleagues will help to establish a relationship and build trust. Do not expect to follow an agenda, Greeks see meetings as opportunities for discussion and will deviate from agendas. Often many people will speak at once

Time

Greeks prefer to do many things at once. They can be easily distracted and subject to numerous interruptions. Plans are changed often and easily and are not necessarily adhered to. We should be punctual for business meetings although Greeks may not. We should expect meetings to start and end late. The work schedule varies in Greece. From May to October, Greeks work from 8:00 - 1:30 and from 4:00 - 7:30 p.m. From October to May the lunch break may be longer.

Humor

Humor is frequently used in Greek conversations. However, Greek humor may be perceived as rude and even vulgar since satirical jokes are common

Working practices in Greece

Greeks conduct...