Can a job offer already commit the employer?
It can. If you want the offer to be an interim step rather than a final commitment, say so explicitly: that it is subject to signing an employment agreement, and what the preconditions are, such as reference checks. Such wording does not remove the duty of good faith in negotiation, so have the text checked by an employment lawyer.
Is a signed employment agreement required in Israel?
The law requires giving employees a written notice of the main terms of employment. It does not require a signed agreement as such, but a written agreement that includes all the required details and is delivered on time also meets the notice duty. Most organizations prefer an agreement, because it also covers topics the notice does not.
How soon must the notice of employment terms be given?
Under the Notice to Employee and Job Candidate (Terms of Employment and Screening and Hiring Procedures) Law, 5762-2002, no later than 30 days from the start of work. That is the latest date: delivering it before day one lets misunderstandings be resolved before work begins. A change in terms also needs written notice, generally within 30 days.
Can a job offer be sent by email or message?
Yes. As a rule, the Contracts Law allows a contract to be made orally, in writing or in another form (section 23). What matters is that the terms are written in full, a reply deadline is stated, and the reply is kept. A phone call leaves no record, so summarize every call in writing.
How long is a job offer valid?
When the offer sets no deadline, the Contracts (General Part) Law says it can be accepted within a reasonable time (section 8), which is open to interpretation. So it is common to state a date by which to reply. Note: whoever set a deadline for acceptance cannot withdraw the offer once it was delivered (section 3(b)).
