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

  • →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.