How Do I Find a Job In Israel? - A Mini Guide

So you're moving to Israel? And you're unemployed? Sounds about right! Israel might be a desert, but I have faith that you're gonna make it rain. With a little guidance you'll be on your way to making those shekels in no time.

WHERE DO I LOOK FOR A JOB?

There are a few places to look for English-speaking (and other languages) jobs in Israel. conveniently, they are mostly online.

1) Facebook Groups: Never underestimate the power of the Israeli Facebook group. They use them to find out information about pretty much everything, so obviously jobs are no exception. Here are some English speaking job groups that I have had luck with:

• Nefesh B'Nefesh Jobs in Israel

• Tel Aviv Secret Job

• Zionist Jobs/Internships in Israel

• Looking for a Job in Israel

• Anglo-Israel Job Network

• Jobs in Jerusalem

2) English-Speaking Job Boards: There are a few go-to job boards/sites that have tons of jobs for English speakers. LinkedIn is also a great place to find jobs in Israel.

• Secret Tel Aviv Jobs

• Janglo.net

• Nefesh B'Nefesh Job Board

3) Protexia: Some might call this nepotism, other's might call it networking, but like in most places, who you know is everything. Don't be afraid to reach out to friends, colleagues, friends of friends, etc. who might have an in with a company you want to work for. If you are applying for a job and you see your friend knows someone who works there, reach out and ask if they can recommend you.

CULTURAL DIFFERENCES: BEING PROFESSIONAL LIKE AN ISRAELI

Other than where to find a job, there are also some cultural differences in the Israeli professional sphere. You really have to learn them through experience, but knowing a bit about them beforehand couldn't hurt!

1) Rosh Gadol: Rosh gadol is a phrase used to refer a person who really takes initiative and is super proactive. Most jobs in Israel really look for this, and will occasionally even post it in the job description. In addition to taking initiative when it comes to actual work, Israeli managers generally won't check in on you or hold your hand. If you have a question they expect you to ask. If you want or need more/less of something, you need to proactively ask.

2) Casual Friday Everyday: When you walk into most Israeli offices you might notice that people are dressed quite casually compared to your average American office. Jeans and tshirts, flip flops and shorts, this is the "start up CEO uniform". I do recommend dressing business casual for your interview because you never know when you'll walk into an office that does want its employees to dress up - and always safer to look super professional and not like a slob.

3) Personal vs Professional Relationships: Random Israelis on the bus will invite you to Shabbat dinner, so it's not exactly a surprise that your boss or colleagues might also. From my personal experience the personal and professional lines have been a bit more blurred here. Obviously it depends on your office and the people, but this is the general vibe. We are all family. Don't feel obligated to let your colleagues into your life. Do what is comfortable for you!