I have the opportunity to apply for a dream role at another company that is a direct competitor of mine in the tech space.

Anonymous

November 10,2021 at 3:37AM UTC

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I have the opportunity to apply for a dream role at another company that is a direct competitor of mine in the tech space. We are required to sign non-compete agreements at my current company, and the other is listed as a competitor included in the non-compete clause.

I am in a state that allows enforcement of non-competes. That said, it’s understood that my company doesn’t really enforce them. Although I am a manger, I am not in a highly strategic position, nor would I ever share confidential information. However, I’m still concerned about the ethics of it as well as potential negative perception/reputation if I were to join the competitor.

Thoughts?

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AnonymousNovember 10,2021 at 5:09AM UTC
This is all just a dream right now. No offer is on the table so you have time to speak an attorney and have him review your agreement and explain your exposure before moving forward.
Heather CutlerNovember 12,2021 at 2:00PM UTC
Once an offer seems imminent, would you consider approaching your current employer to ask to be released from your non-compete? You mentioned being a manager and kind of suggesting that you’re not privy to proprietary information. Maybe a conversation with HR is in order to see how they handle these requests.
AnonymousNovember 12,2021 at 7:49PM UTC
Apply to the job. The hiring company may be able to hire you and keep you out of anything that would violate your non compete for the required period of time. I would definitely let them know about it during the process, and I would not say anything to your current employer until you have a ROCK SOLID offer in hand.
AnonymousNovember 12,2021 at 7:51PM UTC
Also, you are not required to tell your current employer who you are going to work for. Just let them know that you are aware of the non compete and will abide by its requirements - and then make absolutely sure you do not download any company material, don't email it to yourself, NOTHING. They will find out who you went to, if they choose to look, so you want to ensure that you leave a clean exit - showing you will continue to protect their confidential info.
AnonymousNovember 18,2021 at 3:38PM UTC
Just be careful. Some companies enforce noncompetes with certain roles. Also, your future company may not even want to "deal" with that situation.