Yikes.
Friends. Come on. Please use your “thinking cap” as my 7th grade Latin teacher Ms. Bineau would say. Before you quit one job, to take a second in the same industry, think about how to handle the transition.
The following actions will get you into trouble, and possibly a lawsuit, almost every time.
So don’t do them. Understand?
Don’t
1. Tell your clients you are leaving, and you will be competing against your old job.
2. Email ANYONE about your exit and your new professional contact information.
3. Email your home account, client or work emails before you quit.
4. Copy or download private information from your employer.
5. Assume that you non-compete agreement is NOT binding.
6. Tell colleagues that you have wanted to compete for years.
7. Tell clients that your old company is having problems and that no one there can help them after you leave.
8. Post on Facebook, Linked in – or anywhere on the interwebs, how you really feel about the transition.
9. Start a new company, apply for a tax id or start a website.
10. Solicit old clients in the industry BEFORE You quit.
Now, I give you this advice knowing that if you take it, I will lose business. If you ignore me however, and you get a letter or a lawsuit accusing you of breach of fiduciary duty, or contract, we will be happy to help.