The business setting changes in Israel during your first interview. This is your gateway to a potential job so it may not be as casual as presented in the previous sections. Although it was mentioned that Israelis are relaxed and very casual in business, it is best to make an excellent first impression with your interviewer. Take note of the tips below and prepare well for your interview. 

Tip 1: Dressing up for an interview in Israel is different from how locals really dress inside the office. Although hired employees dress up casually, it is best to dress professionally during an interview. For men, you may want to consider a neat pastel-colored button-up shirt paired with formal trousers. Men are not required to wear ties and suits so just be neat and don’t forget to trim your beard. For women, you may wear a semi formal, dark-colored dress matched with neatly tied hair. 

Tip 2: Arrive at least 10 minutes early for your interview and make sure to take into account your time for the toilet and settling down near your office venue. Bring duplicate copies of your resume and try to relax while on the wait.

Tip 3: Prior to your interview, try to read more about the industry the company is in. Find a potential area where you can help, based on the job position you are applying for. Highlight your marketable skills when asked about a question that aims to solve a problem. Answer situational questions with confidence and always deliver with direct eye contact.

Tip 4: Prepare some smart and relevant questions to ask your interviewer. In this way you will be able to express your interest in the job you are applying for. Avoid filler words such as ‘ah’ or ‘um’ and practice alternative smart affirmative words or questions to replace these such as ‘that’s a good question’ or ‘let me think that through.’ Always be confident and be ready to engage with your interviewer in a pleasing manner.

If you’re the employee they are looking for, the HR personnel shall reach you out the soonest possible time they are able. Although it is not an offense to follow up on the HR officer, make sure you just politely shoot an email if you think you should be hearing from them already.