By simply stating you don't sign non-compete clauses because they're 1) illegal (in some states) 2) unenforceable (mostly) and 3) immoral. Work is a voluntary a

By simply stating you don't sign non-compete clauses because they're 1) illegal (in some states) 2) unenforceable (mostly) and 3) immoral. Work is a voluntary arrangement between both parties, at will, and you'll stay (and hopefully the employer will keep you) so long as it's good for both sides of the desk. Or tell the HR person you'd like to have some time for your lawyer to review it. Come back with a refusal or just strike out the lock-out terms, or change the duration to something you can accept (1 year -> 30 days), etc. Say this pleasantly and most HR types will accept it. I've had to walk away from a few offers, but most (maybe 4/5) firms accept my concerns with some version of "I understand." It's my experience that large corporations are more likely to be rigid and insist you sign it, which is your first warning that it's probably not a pleasant place to (literally) spend your life.