[xhkkffbf]

I realize that there are many times when non-compete clauses are examples of big companies punching down at low-level workers, but I've also watched them work out well for the low-level workers too. At least two of my friends have been good enough to be poached by competitors who were willing to pay them to take a 4-8 month vacation until the non-compete ran out. They loved the long vacation.

All things being equal, a fluid marketplace with many options is best for all sides. Businesses that are too strict with their non-competes also risk driving away potential workers. In my experience, the businesses only ask for the non-competes when they're giving someone a significant amount of responsibility.

[wpietri]

Nah. If your friends are that valuable they could have negotiated for the extra comp either way. And then taken a long vacation on their terms.

Also, your experience here is perhaps limited. Non-compete clauses are being given to janitors and sandwich-makers. E.g.: https://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/15/upshot/when-the-guy-makin...