Year Non-Compete

Yesterday, I interviewed for a startup, and they asked me to sign an NDA before they could share more. The founder seemed legit, and the team looked experienced—no red flags at that stage. But then I got the NDA last night… and wow. This could be the worst and strictest NDA I’ve ever seen. I’m definitely not signing it as is. It’s a huge red flag. I seriously doubt any real lawyer drafted this. Every timeline for disclosure is set at 10 years.

Now here’s where it gets wild—they want me to sign a non-compete clause for the second meeting. Meaning I wouldn’t be able to work in my own field if I sign. But get this… for a century. Yeah, 100 years. Not that it’s enforceable, but they’re basically trying to kick me out of my industry before they’ve even decided whether to hire me. Come on.

There are a lot of other red flags in this 11-page document too. If they think they’re going to attract top talent with this NDA, they’ve got another thing coming. I’m also wondering if the rest of the team actually signed this. If they did, I’m starting to have doubts about their experience. Now, at this point, do I attempt to negotiate the NDA or just move on?