Q: Hi, How do you know when you take a new job, you are not violating non-compete ?
I work for a large telecom company & signed a non compete, the non compete language is broad & does not mention any companies.
I have an offer to join a startup company in technology. This new company is not a direct competitor & not in the telecom space. I want to make sure I am not violating the non-compete....its hard to find yes or no answer.
A: You need to speak to an employment attorney who has experience with non-competes as this is a complex legal question. It is highly unlikely that you will find the answer simply by googling it. Also, even an experienced attorney may not be able to give a 100% definitive answer depending on how the non-compete is drafted. The attorney can give you a good idea of the parameters and the things that you should consider moving forward. Again, this is complex.
A:
Dear Mr or Mrs,
in such cases the best way, at least in my jurisdiction, is to consult the company legal department. This is the only way you will know, if they will consider such actions as competition or not.
I wish you best of luck in the new startup.
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