Meetings: Proper Etiquette

In general, Israeli business culture is casual and relaxed, and meetings are often held over food. Even so, if you'd like your meeting to go smoothly, follow these guidelines:

• Show up on time. Punctuality is important when it comes to business meetings.
• Keep small talk to a minimum. Israelis prefer to start discussing business as soon as everyone has gotten acquainted.
• Watch your language. American idioms and slang should be avoided.
• Provide an Agenda. Agendas should be carefully thought out and followed. Also, meetings should be kept short and to the point.
• Bring a gift. Gifts are appreciated in business settings; however, be sure the gifts are simple and not too expensive. Small, desk-top items from your home country are especially valued.
• Accept dinner invitations. Israelis are extremely hospitable and may be offended by a dinner refusal. If you are invited to dinner, bring either high-quality wine, flowers, or nicely presented chocolates. Also, be sure to compliment the meal. It is not necessary, however, to clean your plate.   
• Offer a business card.  Engraved business cards are admired. Also, be sure to read any business cards that you receive before putting them away.   
• Show consideration. You can impress your Israeli business colleagues by providing important meeting documents in both Hebrew and English. Also, it is best not to schedule business meetings in September or October since most Jewish holidays take place during this time.

Communication: Acceptable Style

It's important to remember that the Israeli culture is made up of several religions, including Judaism, Islam and Christianity. You should be aware of your colleague’s religious beliefs because they play an important role in how you will communicate. Whether your Israeli colleague is devoutly religious or not, there are several rituals, beliefs, and traditions with which you should be familiar. A few of these are listed below:

• Language. Most Israelis have good English skills, however, some may not. It's helpful to learn a few Hebrew phrases or to use a translator.
• Address. For a first meeting, titles and surnames should be used. Once you are acquainted, however, you may move to a more casual first-name interaction.
• Greeting. In business settings, men and women greet one another with a handshake. Always use your right hand when greeting Muslims. Religiously observant men are forbidden to touch women and vice-versa. 
• Communication. Israelis are known to be direct and candid. They often interrupt during conversation, but this should not be considered rude. They tend to speak loudly and at a fast pace. Direct eye contact is considered respectful.
• Personal space. Israelis usually stand close to one another while speaking. One to two feet is typical. It can be considered rude to back away from someone while they are speaking.  
• Working hours. The official work week is Sunday to Thursday. The Jewish Sabbath starts at sunset on Friday and lasts until sunset on Saturday. Muslims do not work on Friday. Some Christians do not work on Sunday. 

Dress: Appropriate Attire

If you are meeting your Israeli business colleagues for the first time, you should dress in formal business attire. After the first meeting, more casual dress is acceptable. Religious views and gender often dictate how an Israeli business person will  dress. You will demonstrate your understanding of and appreciation for Israeli culture by considering the following:

• Formal wear. More formal business attire consists of dark-colored suits with ties for men, and business suits or dresses for women.
• Casual wear. Acceptable casual wear includes polo shirts for men and dresses or slacks and blouses for women. Accessories are common.
• Religious views. If you are meeting with devoutly religious people, you should dress more conservatively. Women should wear tops that cover their elbows and skirts or dresses that cover their knees. Men should wear white shirts and dark suits.