Applying to Israel consulting offices or in English-speaking countries

Question

Hi,
I am originally from Russia, I am working for an Israeli high-tech company. I would like to work in consulting, but the problem is that I don't speak Hebrew. As far as I understand, the local language is an essential part of the consulting job, so it's not possible to break into Israeli consulting without proficiency in Hebrew.
I see 3 options:
(1) Stay in the high-tech industry in Israel, learn Hebrew, and network as much as possible. It looks like this option can take years with unknown results
(2) Apply to English-speaking countries (USA, Canada, UK) or countries with no need for a local language (The Netherlands, Denmark,…). I am concerned about visa issues and have no ties with these countries.
(3) Appy to Russian-speaking countries (Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan). An exotic option, not sure that in long term such transition will be rewarding.
So, can you please advise me how you would act if you were in my shoes? What option is preferable?

Answer 1

Hi there,

Q: So, can you please advise me how you would act if you were in my shoes? What option is preferable?

⦿ Option 1: is very long-term. It could work, but you have to be comfortable with waiting many years.

⦿ Option 2: The Netherlands and Denmark do need local language knowledge with the exception of some firms (eg for Bain Amsterdam, English only is fine). The real options for English-only are:

Foreigner friendly (in terms of visa and welcoming foreign applications): The Middle East
Requiring English only: The Middle East, Singapore, The Nordics, The Netherlands (some firms only). Plus countries where English is the local language (eg, UK, US, Australia)

⦿ Option 3: could work, however the market is far more limited in terms of demand compared to some countries in option 2.

Overall, if don’t have visa issue your best bet would be Option 2 with the Middle East.

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I would recommend to find a referral for your application given you don't have direct links. You can find more on referrals here:

▶ How to Find an MBB Referral

In case you need more help please feel free to PM me.

Hope this helps,

Francesco

Answer 2

Hi there,

Option 1 is not a real option. Not only will it take years but you need to be business fluent, not just fluent…this is hard to say the least.

Option #2 and #3 make more sense, which a preference for #2.

You need to network extensively across all possible offices. Then, apply to the offices where you have the most traction and it seems there is strong demand/need.

Good luck!

Answer 3

Hi there,

Interesting. I rather read you options like:

1) very long term

2) long term

3) medium term

If your priority is to work in consulting, then the most accessible option is 3. I wouldn't go through the trouble of learning Hebrew for that. If you're priority is to have an international career you might try to prioritize option 2 and if that doesn't work, fall back on option 3.

Best,

Cristian

Answer 4

Hello there,

from my understanding BCG in Israel hires as well people without speaking Hebrew, as the country is small and many projects are done abroad. I would definitely encourage you to reach to to the recruiting team and ask if you need it.

to your questions

1. already answered above

2. Options without working or residence visa are: Dubai, UK, Netherlands, Finland and I think also other Nordic countries. US very unlikely

3. Not sure, probably option, Dubai however has a lot of need for consulting staff, English is needed only.

Good luck

Lucie

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