A Broad Non-Compete Can Paralyze Your Whole Career
What this clause actually says
A non-compete blocks you from working with competitors; a non-solicit blocks you from poaching clients or staff. Overreach is when they are excessively broad in geography, duration, or scope.
Why it matters to you
An overbroad non-compete can freeze your livelihood — you signed for one project but are barred from your entire industry for years afterward.
How to fix it before you sign
Ask to narrow non-competes to specific named competitors and a short window, or remove them entirely. Non-solicit clauses are more enforceable and an easier compromise.
Ctrl+F for these phrases
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non-compete - →
non-solicit - →
exclusive - →
conflict of interest
Quick answers
Are non-compete clauses even enforceable?
Enforceability varies by jurisdiction and is increasingly limited — but even an unenforceable clause can freeze your work while a dispute drags on. The safer move is to narrow or remove it before signing.