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Being convincing to an employer in Saudi Arabia

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Priscilla

Hello everyone,

Finding a job in Saudi Arabia is no easy feat. From applying for a job all the way to job interviews, the etiquette can be different abroad. Specially job interviews, that can already be pretty daunting, can feel even worse when set in a whole new country. If you’ve gone through a job interview in Saudi Arabia before, how about giving a few tips to someone who might be preparing for one?

Do interviews usually take place in a formal or casual setting in Saudi Arabia? Do you have any pointers for job interviews that take place over a lunch or dinner?

From application all the way to the job interview, what is essential to make an candidate stand out?

Culturally speaking, are there specific do’s and don’ts? What is the general take on bringing a parent on the job interview or a gift to the interviewer?

Can you tell us a little about your experience? What worked and what did not work for you?

How important is it to have a solid professional network prior to a job interview?

Please share your experience,

Priscilla

See also

Job offers in Saudi ArabiaStarting a business in Saudi ArabiaWorking in Saudi ArabiaWorking in JubailWorking in Riyadh
gem26

Depends on the employer.. Normally business attire. They look for smart people , so better be confident with your answer and the way you talk. They dont mormally turn down applicant because there is a huge shortage of whatever position you are applying.

ravikkanth

I would like to share my experience. First and foremost it's like any other job interview. What they ask is are you a Muslim inspite of writing the religion in resume. Not that they give preference to Muslims because due to huge vacancy most of them are non Muslims. Then they negotiate with salary. Salary in Saudi is decent so you won't be disappointed. Your attire is important. Men should wear coat and tie. Women modest. They are not bothered about your English because even they speak broken English. Sometimes they reject you for no reason. Difficult to find out why they rejected you inspire being the best candidate. You need not bother about that as there are other interviews and other gulf countries. Finally I would say the correct agent introducing you to Saudi is very important. If the agent is an idiot like some Indian agents are you are bound to be disappointed. Please be careful in selecting those people and reject the useless ones. May Allah bless us for a good job.

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