[georgeecollins]

There are many incentives available to prevent the seller of a company (and the employees) to not run out and start a competitor. You can give them shares that vest over time. You can offer them employment in the new company. You can make various offers contingent on the performance of the sold company.

[cornellwright]

Given that these NCs are generally negotiated as part of the sale of the company I don't really see a problem. If what you're being offered isn't worth agreeing not to compete then keep negotiating or walk away.