[mswen]

In theory anything contained in an employment contract is negotiable. And, they have already signaled that this negotiable by including the clause

> and will not (without [company]’s prior written consent) carry on

One question is whether this is just wording to reassure people like you at the time of hire that it is indeed possible or whether that permission is granted fairly routinely. And, even when granted what is the cultural spin? Is branching out on your own after hours celebrated as proof of ambition and creativity? Or is that kind of after hours initiative viewed as disloyalty?

I think in some ways understanding the company culture and practice is more important that formal negotiations at this point. Because even if you get the wording changed or struck out of the contract you still might be viewed negatively even if you have the legal right to proceed.

[anuj_nm]

I hadn't thought of it that way, thanks for bringing it up. Yes, I'll have to ask to see how its viewed culturally.