Since most VC money and tech startups are in CA where non-competes are not enforceable it seems like it would be mostly pointless but I am hearing mixed opinions. Also, I know everything here will be "IANAL" I am just curious what other peoples experiences with this have been.
Well the downside to signing-if the startup isn't doing hot, or you realize a startup isn’t for you, your backup plan is a leadership position in your field of expertise. Sounds very constraining.<p>Also if you truly want to leave, it doesn’t seem like a great idea to keep you in a key position. Why force you to have this as an only option? You might even be incentivized to sabotage the startup!<p>Seems your equity and the belief in the mission are really what would keep you there.