Here is an in-depth look at understanding the business culture and customs in Israel. It is good to learn about the specific customs before arriving on your business trip to Israel in order to be well-prepared.
In general, the dress code for business in Israel is very casual and there is no formal dress code for offices. Due to the extremely hot temperatures, most workers dress comfortably and wearing jeans to work is very common.
Revealing clothing and beachwear is not acceptable in the workplace. It is also important to be mindful of religious observances which means dressing modestly.
Another thing to remember is that every office in Tel Aviv has the air conditioning on at all times, so while it may be hot outside, it is good to bring along a light sweater or jacket. No need to wear a suit and tie, but make sure you are still polished and put together and do not be surprised by the casual attire of business partners in Israel.
The idea is to dress “business casual” for doing business in Israel.
Business Formalities in Israel
Arrive on time – but do not be surprised or frustrated if the meeting starts late.
Meetings in Israel are much less formal and as such can sometimes have a 10-15 minute delay. It is very common to start late, however, it is still good practice to arrive on time.
Shaking hands – is common practice and a formal and polite way to greet each other when doing business in Israel. However, if you are interacting with a religious person,
it is important to know that it is not permitted to shake hands with the opposite sex. Do not be offended and best to be aware of this custom.
It is very common for Israelis to answer their cell phone and take calls during meetings. Do not be surprised or offended as this is a part of the culture. In general, you will see people speaking on cell phones at all times and in all areas like public transit and in restaurants and this is very common.
The work week in Israel goes from Sunday to Thursday. Some businesses will be open on Friday mornings and some international companies will remain open on the weekends, but in general, people do not conduct business on Friday after sundown and Saturday as this is Shabbat.
General business hours in Israel are from 8:30/9:00 am until 18:00 and the average person works a 9 hour day or 45 hour work week.
International business is conducted mostly in English, although Hebrew is the national language. If possible, try to familiarize yourself with some basic expressions, or at least the pronunciation of Hebrew names of business associates.
It is common practice among most companies in Israel to give gifts to customers and employees during the holidays. Most specifically Rosh Hashanah (usually in September) and Passover (March/April) it is appropriate to give gifts. If you are attending the home a business colleague, it is polite to bring a gift or gesture to the host such as flowers or wine. Always remember the rules about kashrut (kosher).
If you are working with somebody that is religious it is important to be respectful of their traditions. This includes not working on Shabbat and keeping kosher. In terms of gifts, if you are visiting a kosher home make sure bring kosher wine. When setting meetings, you can select restaurants that are kosher ensuring that everyone will be able to eat off the menu.
Business meetings in Israel can sometimes be very informal, and you will find that people will speak as they please rather than waiting their turn. If this is the case, do not be offended if people interrupt and be prepared to speak up in order to get your point across.
It is best to keep your political, cultural and religious opinions to yourself and do not bring these ideas into business. Israel is a very diverse country with a lot of differing opinions, so if possible it is best not to make generalizations or assumptions.
It is quite common to have a business meeting in an informal cafe over a cup of coffee. Do not be surprised if you are invited to a meeting in a cafe as this is quite common. On the same note, if you are invited for a casual drink or coffee after the meeting, this is because Israelis are warm and hospitable. It is good to take the invitation and enjoy the experience outside in a cafe or bar.
n order to continuously employ a non-EU national in Poland by a Polish Company, an employer must keep the continuity of work permit for the non EU employee.
A work permit is a document that authorizes a foreign national employee to work legally in Poland. A work permit is required for taking up any type of work under civil or labour law.
The extension of the Work Permit is issued upon a written request of the company providing the foreign national with work or its representative, submitted not earlier than 90 days and not later than 30 days before the expiry date of the Permit.
