> all of sudden bunch of people are being let go just weeks after signing a new agreement. If I'm reading this correctly, is this not itself a huge indication

> all of sudden bunch of people are being let go just weeks after signing a new agreement. If I'm reading this correctly, is this not itself a huge indication of the company's attitude and so a warning sign? I agree with the others: Talk to a (competent, specializing in local employment law) attorney. Start job hunting now. Don't sign it unless you have a good reason (e.g. guaranteed compensation at then-current pay level, plus normal raises as determined in some fashion, for the full non-compete term -- and paid COBRA or equivalent benefits that perhaps extend beyond the non-compete term (because you still need coverage until you actually land the next job); health care insurance can be as important as anything else -- also not forgetting the value of pension plan participation and/or 401k match, and the like). No, you may not get all of that. But those are all factors to consider in making a personal decision. From your superficial description and my own personal experience, it reads as if this organization may be turning into crap. I'd suggest seriously exploring moving on. P.S. Also know the geographic limitations, if any are specified, of the non-compete agreement. In some jurisdictions and/or employment domains, absence of geographic limits effectively makes the non-compete illegal or unenforceable or a judge may modify the agreement to impose such a limitation -- probably the maximum geographic limitation allowed under local law. IANAL nor particularly versed in this; it's my impression gleaned from others' comments here and there on this matter.