As a physician, what should I keep in mind during negotiation of an employment contract?

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Video Transcript

Kevin:

Some tips that come to mind for physicians:

Read the contract carefully.  Don’t assume the contract is written in stone.

Assess your bargaining position.

Kevin:

Some tips that come to mind for physicians:

Read the contract carefully.  Don’t assume the contract is written in stone.

Assess your bargaining position.

Determine what details have material importance to you and limit your negotiation to only those elements.

Don’t focus on whether the requested non-compete is enforceable. Assume that it is enforceable and ask yourself if the non-compete agreement would require you to move or otherwise impair your professional life and, if so, determine if you are ok with that.  If you are not, there are smart ways to negotiate for a more reasonable restrictive covenant that will also protect the employer.

And finally, be kind and professional.  Make them want to hire you.

Determine what details have material importance to you and limit your negotiation to only those elements.

Don’t focus on whether the requested non-compete is enforceable. Assume that it is enforceable and ask yourself if the non-compete agreement would require you to move or otherwise impair your professional life and, if so, determine if you are ok with that.  If you are not, there are smart ways to negotiate for a more reasonable restrictive covenant that will also protect the employer.

And finally, be kind and professional.  Make them want to hire you.