When it comes to accepting a new job offer, the excitement of joining a new company can often overshadow the critical step of reviewing and understanding your employment contract.
Yet, signing without careful consideration can lead to potential pitfalls down the road.
To help you navigate this essential document, we present insights from a video by a lawyer on three crucial terms to look out for before putting pen to paper.
Make sure you’re well-informed before taking the leap into your new career.
1. Job Description
“What does your contract say about what your work duties are? Make sure it is aligned to what was put out in the job ad and what you discussed in the interview”
Ensuring that the responsibilities outlined in the contract align with what was initially presented in the job advertisement and discussed during the interview process is paramount.
Misalignment between expectations and actual duties can lead to dissatisfaction and misunderstandings in the workplace.
It’s essential to pay attention to the wording in this section. If you find any discrepancies or ambiguities, don’t hesitate to seek clarification from the hiring manager or HR representative.
Having a clear understanding of your role is the foundation for a successful and fulfilling professional journey.
2. Restraint of Trade
“Make sure that there’s no restraint of trade in your employment contract. If there is, you’re going to have a problem.”
The restraint of trade clause often seeks to restrict employees from joining competitors or starting a business in the same industry for a certain period after leaving the company.
While companies have legitimate reasons to protect their intellectual property and sensitive information, overly restrictive clauses can hinder your professional growth.
Before signing, carefully assess the scope and duration of the restraint of trade clause.
If you feel the restrictions are too onerous, consider discussing this with your prospective employer and negotiating for a more reasonable agreement.
3. Probation Period and Notice Period
“Make sure it’s a short period for probation and notice. Otherwise, you’ll have to give a six-month notice before leaving the company.”
The probation and notice periods are critical aspects to consider when leaving a company.
The probation period is the initial evaluation period for new employees, while the notice period determines how much time you need to give your employer before resigning.
Having an overly long notice period can delay your transition to a new job.
Balancing the probation and notice periods is crucial to allow both the employer and the employee sufficient time to make informed decisions without causing undue hardships.
A short probation period allows for a quick assessment of job fit and performance, while a reasonable notice period ensures a smooth handover and minimizes disruptions to the company.
The Comment Section
Viewers in the comments section shared their experiences and perspectives on employment contracts.
One commenter stated, “I signed the contract of 10 months and worked for 3 weeks and my contract was terminated without payment what must I do pls help?”
Another user said, “Whatever you say, Sir. These people don’t respect the law. “
A third added, “Does the restraint apply under the probation period? if I choice to end the relationship before the probation period if up?”
The 6-Figure Career Opportunity You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner
In today’s rapidly evolving professional landscape, staying informed about promising career paths that offer growth opportunities and financial stability is crucial. If you’re curious about securing a six-figure income and finding a fulfilling career, this article is here to provide valuable insights.
Company Red Flag: Lying on Your Job Description
Honest job hunters just want to get a decent job that will help them further their careers while getting fairly paid. The hunting and waiting game is stressful enough, so when you get that call for an interview, it feels a lot like nothing is impossible.
However, one Redditor expressed their frustration when companies blatantly lie to their future employees.
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This article was produced and syndicated by Viral Chatter. It was inspired by this video:
@legal_leaders_sa Before Signing Your Employment Contract, Listen Up! #unemployed #employee #employer #labourlaw #legaltips ♬ Bubble – Official Sound Studio
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
