Sometimes you can compromise a non-compete clause. For example: instead of signing something that precludes you from selling the same thing for years, why not ask your prospective employer to modify it by saying that you will not call on existing customers should you decide to leave. Existing customers are what they’re most paranoid about.
As a new employee, just because it’s written someplace, doesn’t mean you can’t modify it. But be gentle in how you approach it. Try to use the phrase, “in order to be fair to everyone.” And try to keep the discussion friendly.
