Reviewing your employment contract

In short: Before signing, check five areas: salary including special payments and overtime rules, home office in writing, probation and notice periods, non-compete and training-cost repayment clauses, and who owns your side projects. Taking your time and asking questions is normal, not a bad signal — and if in doubt, the Chamber of Labour (Arbeiterkammer, AK) helps free of charge.

Money & time

• Salary including special payments (14×?), bonus conditions, next review date.
• Working hours & overtime: All-in contract? What does it cover? Time off in lieu?
• Holiday and any special arrangements.

Flexibility

• Home office/hybrid in writing, not just verbally.
• Place of work and travel obligations.

Commitment & exit

• Probation period and notice periods (on both sides).
• Non-compete clause (see the next article) and side employment.
• Repayment of training costs: Do you have to pay anything back if you leave early?

Intellectual property & data

• Who owns side projects/inventions? Especially relevant as a developer.

The calm step

Take your time and ask when something is unclear — that's normal and not a bad signal. If in doubt, the Chamber of Labour (Arbeiterkammer, AK) helps you free of charge.

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