Understand Your Employment Contract in 60 Seconds

Original clause

"All Intellectual Property created by the Employee during the term of employment, whether during working hours or otherwise, shall be the exclusive property of the Company."

Plain English explanation

Everything you create — including personal projects, side businesses, and weekend work — belongs to the company. This includes code, designs, writing, and inventions made on your own time.

Original clause

"Overtime compensation is included in the agreed annual salary. The Employee shall not be entitled to additional compensation for hours worked beyond the standard working week."

Plain English explanation

No matter how many extra hours you work, you won't be paid beyond your base salary. In some jurisdictions, this clause is limited or unenforceable if overtime becomes excessive.

Original clause

"The Employee shall not, for a period of 12 months following termination, be employed by or provide services to any entity that competes with the Company within the European Economic Area."

Plain English explanation

For 1 year after leaving, you cannot work for any competitor in the entire EEA. This is a broad geographic restriction that could severely limit your job options.