Work question

aligator423uf

Has anyone ever signed a non-compete agreement at work? I know a lot of big companies utilize them. My company wants the reps (including me) to sign one. Basically besides saying our clients stay with the company if we leave, it also says we cannot work for another disability company in the state of MN for 1 year after we leave. There is a small signing bonus, and they're offering severance pay if we leave or are fired.

Honestly I don't think I have a problem signing this. There is no penalty if we don't, but I can't imagine ever leaving this company to go work for another disability company. Primarily because that's not what I want to be doing anyway, but also because there really isn't another one that I could go to around where we live. And if we move, it's out of state regardless. Some of the other reps had qualms about it, but I think I'd rather have the bonus then not. 

Vikki2pay

I've never been asked, but I've also never had any kind of postion that I would need it. But for a signing bonus and severance package, I think I would sign it too.

LarissaAnn

I signed one once, for a face painting gig, when I painted at the US Open through another painter's company last year. I had no problem with that since I'm certainly not out to steal anyone's clients. With law, it'd be illegal, since clients are ethically permitted to choose any attorney they want, no matter what. And it'd be laughable if someone tried to tell me I can't practice in one one of only two.states in which I'm admitted. At any rate, I don't see a problem for you. But your concerned coworkers should take it to be reviewed by an attorney to gauge enforceability. Non-competes have to be reasonable with regard to time and coverage area, and that depends very heavily on the industry involved.

Five_letter

I've signed them, and I've always been forced to sign them.

However, if I were terminated the agreement was null and void. 

alyssa44

I have signed them before, but would not again unless I was making mega money.

Reason being is that this is a bad economy and if I wanted out to go to a more stable company I would not want to be held back.

I guess it would also depend on the bonus you are getting as well.

aligator423uf

LarissaAnn:

I signed one once, for a face painting gig, when I painted at the US Open through another painter's company last year. I has no problem with that since I'm certainly not out to steal anyone's clients. With law, it'd be illegal, since clients are ethically permitted to choose any attorney they want, no matter what. And it'd be laughable if someone tried to tell me I can't practice one one of only two.states in which I'm admitted. At any rate, I don't see a problem for you. But your concerned coworkers should take it to be reviewed by an attorney to gauge enforceability. Non-competes have to be reasonable with regard to time and coverage area, and that depends very heavily on the industry involved.

They are going to have their attorney review it. And I know the company set it up with their attorney as well. The thing is that if I pass the national exam then that's good in any state. It's more of a certification than a license. So I could go to any state and do what I do. But then again, I have less of a problem moving then the other reps. I'm going to sign it: I want the bonus! Plus the severance package is nice since I would get something even if I voluntarily quit. Considering we don't have anything in writing for that now, I see that as a win.

Cutiepie811

Ive never signed one but a signing bonus and severance package sounds real good.

LarissaAnn

Yeah, then for you it's probably ok to sign it.

iheartcutepuppies

Five_letter:

I've signed them, and I've always been forced to sign them.

However, if I were terminated the agreement was null and void. 

Same here. My last job though, I joined at a lower entry position...they didn't reAlize I'd grow in the co...and then I left and went to a competitor...they had nothing. Now I have a non compete but ma has a right to work clause so if you really want to leave and work for a competitor, there is likely a loophole....