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📋 Before You Sign

Got a job offer?Read this before you sign.

That contract could lock you into a non-compete, claw back your bonus, or leave you exposed if things go wrong. Vera reviews the terms you need to negotiate.

3 free messages · Full review from $6

Most people sign without reading

You'd never buy a house without checking the contract. But most people sign employment contracts in 24 hours without understanding what they're agreeing to. Here's what to look for.

6 red flags in your contract

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Vague termination clause

If the contract says 'employment may be terminated at any time for any reason' without specifying notice — that's a red flag. You need clear terms.

What to do: Ensure mutual notice periods are specified (typically 1-3 months for professionals).
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Non-compete that's too broad

'You may not work in any competing business for 2 years globally' is almost certainly unenforceable — but it can still scare you into compliance.

What to do: In Singapore, courts require reasonableness. In Malaysia, most non-competes are void under Section 28 of the Contracts Act.
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Bonus clawback provisions

Some contracts require you to repay sign-on bonuses or training costs if you leave within 1-2 years. The amounts can be shocking.

What to do: Check the exact repayment schedule. Unreasonable clawbacks may be unenforceable as penalties.
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No mention of notice pay

If the contract doesn't state what happens when either party terminates, you're exposed. Verbal promises mean nothing.

What to do: Insist on written notice periods and payment in lieu of notice terms.
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IP assignment beyond your role

'All intellectual property created during employment belongs to the company' — even for personal projects on weekends?

What to do: Negotiate to limit IP assignment to work done within scope of employment, during working hours, using company resources.
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Probation with no protections

6-month probation with 1-week notice and no benefits? Some employers use extended probation to avoid employment protections.

What to do: In Singapore, Employment Act protections apply from day one. Probation only affects notice period, not your statutory rights.
The $6 that could save you $60,000

A bad contract clause can cost you months of salary, your ability to work in your industry, or benefits you assumed you had. Vera reviews every clause and tells you exactly what to negotiate — for the price of a coffee.

Get your contract reviewed now

Paste your contract terms into the chat. Vera will flag every issue and tell you what to push back on — clearly, specifically, in minutes.

✓ Singapore & Malaysia law✓ Instant answers

General legal information, not legal advice. For complex negotiations, consult a qualified employment lawyer.