Communication/Negotiation
This physical behavior common in Israel may feel uncomfortable to foreigners
What is standing very close during conversation?
This is the most common greeting in Israeli business meetings
What is shaking hands and saying "Shalom" or "Hello"?
This is not a good topic of conversation in Israel despite its cultural signifigance
What is religion?
These are the two official languages in Israel
What are Hebrew and Arabic?
These types of question are common in Israeli business settings, and not considered off limits
What are personal questions, regarding age, income, or family?
This describes the dress code in Israeli business settings
What is business casual?
Rather than collectivism, this describes Israel's cultural framework
What is individualism?
Although they use gestures often, Israelis will not do this
What is point at someone?
This communication style is typical and not meant to be rude in Israel
What is direct or blunt communication?
Due to unpredictable meeting length and unexpected delays, this should not be done
What is scheduling several meetings on the same day?
This describes how time is perceived in Israeli business
What is flexible?
You should be prepared to do this when entering someone's home
What is removing your shoes?
Israeli people often do this when they disagree
What is argue or strongly express opinions?
As opposed to being a private interaction, this is common in Israeli meetings
What is interruption from visitors or taking a phone call?
These tend to be the basis for truth, with objective facts only used to supplement
What are subjective feelings?
Due to past problems with bribery, you should be cautious when doing this in Israeli business settings
What is gift giving?
This is how negotiations might feel in Israeli business settings to an American
What is fast paced and informal?
This being served signals that the meeting is coming to an end
What is coffee?
This describes the power distance in Israel
What is low power distance?
This is required for all citizens living in Israel and shapes professional culture
What is mandatory military service?