← Remote Work Glossary

Non-Compete Clause

A contract term restricting an employee from joining or starting a competing business for a period after leaving.

A non-compete clause limits where you can work after a job ends — typically barring you from direct competitors for a set time and region. Employers use them to protect trade secrets and client relationships.

Their enforceability varies enormously: some countries and US states ban or heavily limit them, while others uphold them. Because remote work crosses jurisdictions, check which law governs your contract before signing.