Guide

Nebentätigkeit and Side Clauses You Should Not Skim

Secondary-employment rules, IP assignment, and non-compete language often sit in the back half of a German contract. Skimming them is expensive later.

Person writing notes next to a laptop in a workspace

Many Arbeitsverträge require prior written consent for Nebentätigkeit. If you teach, consult, or run a small side project, raise this before you sign.

IP and Erfindung clauses can assign work product broadly. Confirm what applies to inventions created outside working time and outside the employer’s field.

Post-contractual non-competes (nachvertragliches Wettbewerbsverbot) in Germany generally need compensation to be enforceable. If a clause appears without Karenzentschädigung language, flag it for specialist legal review.

Confidentiality clauses are normal; overbroad ones that block ordinary networking are worth narrowing in the clarification round.

Bring these topics to a contract-preparation session with the exact clause text highlighted. Vague worry is harder to act on than a marked PDF.

Ask about a consultation