When you start a new job, the odds are that you will need to sign an employment contract. You may think that this is quite simple since you probably already know everything you need to about your new job, but the truth is that you need to spend some time properly reading through this contract. This is because you need to make sure that you fully understand it.
It will also help you to ensure that you know what is expected of you and that you don’t get taken advantage of. So, to learn more about what you need to look for in an employment contract, keep reading.
Any specific clauses or agreements
While most jobs will include some common things in their employment contracts, you may also find that your job has a few specific things included in the contract.
For example, it may require you to sign a non-disclosure agreement so that you can’t speak about your work to other people, or it may prohibit competition with a non-compete agreement. Either way, it’s important to be aware of these clauses and to ensure that you fully understand their implications.
Your salary
There are various types of salaries. You could get paid the same amount each month, or you could get paid a different amount depending on how many hours you worked. Of course, you could also be paid on a contract or commission basis.
No matter how you get paid, your employment contract should clearly state how your salary will work and how it will be determined. It should also include things like how much you will get paid if you work overtime. Knowing more or less what your salary will be is important because you will need it when budgeting each month.
Your duties
A big part of an employment contract is that it helps you know what is expected of you. This way, you know what your duties are, as well as what the consequences will be if you don’t fulfill them.
This will also help you to make sure that you aren’t being taken advantage of by doing things that aren’t in your job description. Knowing exactly what your duties are is very important when you work from home, since you may not have as much support. For some tips on dealing with stress when you work from home, click here.
Your rights and benefits
Your employment contract will also prevent you from being treated unfairly by laying out your rights, such as how much leave you are allowed to take each year. This will help you understand what to expect from the job and help you realize if you aren’t being treated the way you should.
Knowing how much leave you are entitled to can help you plan a trip, but it’s also important to take note of any extra benefits you may have, such as an employee discount or medical insurance. This will help you make the most of your new job.
Belle has been working as an English tutor for 3 years. She’s been with several online ESL schools teaching Japanese, Chinese and Koreans from super beginner to advanced level students.