As Greece’s labor market continues to evolve, a new survey offers insight into how workers in the country are redefining what they want from their professional lives. Conducted by the research firm MARC on behalf of leading Greek company Papastratos, the study paints a dynamic picture of changing attitudes toward work—highlighting a clear shift from traditional priorities like job security to more modern demands such as flexibility, fair compensation, and personal growth.
The survey, which gathered responses from 1,053 people aged 18 to 65, reveals a workforce that is more self-assured and selective than in the past. Greek workers today are increasingly willing to trade the safety of a permanent position for opportunities that offer better pay, professional advancement, and, crucially, a healthier work-life balance. In fact, nearly 70% of participants said they would leave a secure job if they could find better working conditions and more time for personal life.
This redefinition of priorities is reshaping how employees view what makes a company attractive. Rather than focusing solely on salary or benefits, Greek workers are taking a more holistic approach—evaluating potential employers based on workplace culture, fairness, opportunities for development, and the ability to work flexibly. The idea of a "good company" is no longer one-dimensional.
Flexibility, in particular, has become a non-negotiable part of the modern Greek work experience. More than half of the respondents said they preferred a hybrid model that allows them to work both remotely and on-site, while just over a third still favored full-time, in-person work. Among younger workers, especially Generation Z, there is a growing desire for adaptable schedules shaped in collaboration with employers. Interestingly, while the vast majority are open to working with colleagues of all ages, about a third of Gen Z respondents admitted they would rather work with peers their own age.
The study also shows that career preferences are shifting. Multinational companies remain the most attractive employers, especially among younger generations. While the public sector has historically been a popular choice for Greek workers, its appeal is declining. Only 30% of respondents said they now see it as an attractive option. In contrast, self-employment is gaining ground, with nearly a third of workers saying they would prefer to work for themselves. A striking finding is that nearly 80% of Gen Z respondents would consider moving abroad for better job opportunities—a sentiment shared by 68% of all participants.
Technology also looms large in the survey’s findings. While many workers express optimism that new technologies will make their jobs easier, nearly half also voice concerns about potential downsides, including job loss due to automation. Gen Z appears more optimistic about the rise of artificial intelligence, but anxiety persists across all age groups. Despite this, the willingness to adapt is strong—over 84% of respondents said they are open to reskilling, and more than 70% believe that lifelong learning is essential for future career success.
When it comes to generational differences, the survey reveals distinct priorities. Younger workers prioritize job quality, especially when it comes to salary and working conditions. Millennials focus on income and balancing professional with personal life. Generation X continues to value job security, while Baby Boomers look for recognition, merit-based advancement, and acknowledgment of their contributions.
Commenting on the findings, Themis Chassiotis, General Manager of Communications and Sustainability at Papastratos, said the results reflect a profound shift in how people view work. “Today’s employees are not just looking for a job—they’re looking for a work environment that supports their development, values their contributions, and respects their need for balance. Flexibility is now a core expectation, and although technology brings challenges, it also boosts confidence, especially among younger generations. The companies that embrace these changes will be the ones that succeed in attracting top talent.”
