Onboarding Process: Step-by-Step Explanation

Step 1: Job Offer and Acceptance 📩

Trigger: After identifying and selecting the ideal candidate.

Action:

• Job Title: Clearly state the employee’s position and reporting structure.
• Compensation: Outline salary details, bonuses, and any additional incentive plans.
• Start Date: Provide a clear and agreed-upon start date.
• Working Hours: Specify expected working hours, including any overtime or flexible work policies.
• Benefits Overview: Include health insurance, retirement contributions, and other employee benefits.
• Probation Period: State any probationary period (typically up to 12 months in Greece).

Outcome: Once the offer is accepted, move forward with drafting the employment contract.

Step 2: Employment Contract 📝

When It’s Used: Immediately following offer acceptance.

Action: Draft a formal employment contract, adhering to Greek labor regulations. Include:

• Job Description: Define the employee’s role, responsibilities, and daily tasks.
• Compensation Details: Include base salary, performance-based bonuses, and allowances.
• Leave Entitlements:
  • Annual Leave: A minimum of 20 days per year, increasing with years of service.
  • Public Holidays: Outline official Greek public holidays.
  • Sick Leave: Paid leave as specified by labor laws.
  • Parental Leave: Details on maternity, paternity, and parental leave.
• Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, with potential adjustments for shift work.
• Termination Conditions: Clarify notice period and conditions under which employment may be terminated.

Outcome: Both parties sign the contract, solidifying the employment relationship.

Step 3: Tax and Social Security Registration 💰

When It’s Used: Prior to the employee’s start date.

Action: Register the employee with Greece’s tax and social security system:

• Social Security (EFKA) Enrollment: Ensure enrollment in Greece’s social security for pensions, health coverage, and unemployment insurance.
• Tax ID Registration: Verify or obtain a tax ID for the employee to ensure proper tax withholding.
• Employer Contributions: Understand and account for employer obligations, including health, pension, and unemployment contributions.

Outcome: Compliance with Greek tax and social security requirements.

Step 4: Health and Safety Induction 🦺

When It’s Used: On or before the employee’s first day.

Action: Conduct health and safety training, ensuring compliance with Greek occupational safety standards:

• Safety Guidelines: Cover emergency procedures and any specific workplace safety practices.
• Emergency Procedures: Familiarize employees with fire exits, emergency contacts, and first aid locations.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide necessary PPE based on the employee’s role.

Outcome: The employee is well-informed about safety procedures and provided with any required protective equipment.

Step 5: Payroll and Benefits Enrollment 📊

When It’s Used: Within the employee’s first week.

Action: Set up payroll and benefits for the employee:

• Bank Details: Collect bank information for payroll deposits.
• Benefits Enrollment: Register the employee for applicable benefits, such as health insurance and pension plans.
• Overtime Policy: Explain the applicable overtime pay rate and conditions.

Outcome: The employee is properly enrolled in payroll and benefits programs.

Step 6: Workplace Policies and Training 📚

When It’s Used: Within the first month.

Action: Provide training on workplace policies and standards:

• Code of Conduct: Review expectations regarding workplace behavior and ethics.
• Training Programs: Introduce job-specific training and compliance protocols.
• Performance Metrics: Set performance expectations and clarify evaluation criteria.
• Remote or Flexible Work Options: Discuss any applicable flexible work arrangements.

Outcome: The employee is familiarized with the company culture, policies, and job expectations.

Step 7: Probation and Feedback Period 📅

When It’s Used: During the initial probation period (usually up to 12 months).

Action: Monitor the employee’s performance and provide regular feedback:

• Performance Reviews: Schedule periodic evaluations to assess progress and fit.
• Feedback and Adjustments: Offer guidance and make necessary role adjustments.
• Employment Confirmation: Confirm the employee’s position after probation or provide actionable feedback.

Outcome: The employee completes the probation period, either securing a permanent role or receiving constructive feedback for improvement.

Summary Table of Key Onboarding Steps in Greece

Key Takeaways:

• A formal employment contract is mandatory in Greece, detailing job responsibilities, compensation, and benefits.
• Compliance with Greece’s social security and tax systems is essential for legal employment.
• Health and safety training is required, including emergency procedures and PPE as needed.
• Greek employees are entitled to at least 20 days of paid vacation, increasing with seniority, and sick leave as outlined by law.
• Comprehensive onboarding includes policy training, job-specific tasks, and setting clear performance expectations during the probationary period.