The thing is, people who are let go are going to be in a sour mood. They are often going to think of negative things, even (especially?) if they had a very positive experience, and ordinarily this would not be a signal that is important. But for a company that is reducing its burn rate, obviously public signals like what someone decides to say are hugely important. So it is really a reminder: "don't bad-mouth us please."
Why not just be fair, "In understanding the important relationship I had with my employer as a valued and insider employee, I will agree to be fair in any public representations made about the company, in deference to its important and precarious image at this critical stage. Nothing here should be construed as affecting my statutory rights."
I'd sign that in a heart-beat, and it might even be a good reminder.
sure, but it doesn't work. that's why companies give out equity and options, instead of trying to blackmail their recruitment targets. and startups around here described as being run by a bully implode or close soon thereafter.
I wish I could say the same about NYC startups. I once worked for a place where an employee left to a competitor which infuriated the CEO. As a result he had a meeting threatening to track down anyone who left and get them fired. In addition he made everyone sign a non-compete agreement or risk being fired. This startup is still around and doing just fine. I've heard similar stories from other nyc startups.
Why not just be fair, "In understanding the important relationship I had with my employer as a valued and insider employee, I will agree to be fair in any public representations made about the company, in deference to its important and precarious image at this critical stage. Nothing here should be construed as affecting my statutory rights."
I'd sign that in a heart-beat, and it might even be a good reminder.