Q: Concern about intimidating language in job offer NDA and its ethical implications.
I'm reviewing a non-disclosure agreement from a job offer, and I'm concerned about the language used in the agreement. It states that I will have to access confidential information and return all such information upon termination without retaining any copies. It also emphasizes not disclosing or using any confidential material related to the company's business. The language feels aggressive and intimidating, and I'm questioning the ethical implications. Is this kind of language typical, and should I be concerned about the ethics of this agreement?
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A:
It’s normal for companies to include clauses in NDAs that protect their confidential information, and the language you’re seeing may be fairly typical. Many businesses include terms that require employees to return all confidential materials and refrain from using or disclosing that information, even after employment ends. This is intended to protect sensitive business data, which is essential for most companies.
However, if the language feels overly aggressive or intimidating, you should pay attention to how broadly the agreement is written. The scope of "confidential information" should be reasonable and directly related to the work you're doing. If the NDA feels too restrictive or includes terms that seem unnecessary or unreasonable, it could be worth raising concerns with the company or seeking clarification.
If you're still unsure, you might want to consult an attorney to help you review the agreement. They can ensure that the terms are fair and in line with common practices, and they can advise you if any provisions seem particularly problematic.
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