Earlier this week I was doing a little happy dance because I had been offered a job. A really good job that was doing something I love - writing - and working from home (added bonus) and was full time.
I even told my current job that I was leaving.
UPS delivered my "welcome packet" yesterday for the new job.
And I read a document that stopped me in my tracks.
This company has a policy "prohibiting [my] engagement in outside journalism, editing, writing, and publishing activities...including but not limited to books, magazines, newsletters, websites, blogs, user groups and forums, whether paid or unpaid..."
Hold. The. Phone.
I can't blog anymore if I sign this piece of paper.
Yeah. You read that right. For the duration of my employment with the company I would be prohibited from blogging, online forums, managing blogs, etc., UNLESS they give me permission to do so.
Yes. I said permission. I would have to ask their permission to get their OK to continue my blog after they review it.
I have a real issue with this. I have worked so hard and so long on this blog and to now be faced with the reality that if I take this job they could tell me I can't blog anymore...I just can't even wrap my head around it.
That sucks so hard. Is it just me or does that seem incredibly restrictive? I sincerely hope you get this worked out to your satisfaction!
ReplyDeleteIncredibly restrictive. I'm sick about it.
ReplyDeleteHonestly, it just seems bat-shit crazy. I did have a job previously that forbade "day trading" but hello? I was working for a financial services company and yes, it would have been a HaYUGE conflict of interest. This one just makes very little sense to me. People who write for publication often have other blogs. What the eff is the big deal?
ReplyDeleteDo they mean on company time? Is this an office job? I'm no expert, but it seems unreasonable to restrict what someone does on their own leisure time. You might be able to fight this, or at least not sign the document and tell them that you don't agree. Is that a deal breaker for them if you don't sign?
ReplyDeleteThey mean at all. It's a work from home job, so it's crazy. They want me to ask permission to do any of it.
DeleteI'm sure if it you explain that this is a blog you've had for awhile they'll be okay with that. And if they aren't, then it just might not be the best fit for you. Although, full-time writing at home does sound pretty darn good!
ReplyDeleteIt's non-negotiable...I either let them tell me if I can/can't blog or that's it. And I would also be prohibited from working with/on any political campaign which is a huge issue since I'm running the social media for a congressional campaign until November.
DeleteSo, are you going to end up taking this job?
ReplyDelete