Employment Agreement Extension: A Guide for Employers and Employees
An employment agreement is a crucial document between an employer and an employee. It can specify the terms and conditions of employment, including compensation, benefits, and the length of the agreement. When an employment agreement is about to expire, both parties may decide to extend the agreement. An employment agreement extension is a legal document that extends the terms and conditions of an existing employment agreement beyond its original expiration date.
In this guide, we will discuss the important aspects of an employment agreement extension and how it impacts employers and employees.
Why Extend an Employment Agreement?
There are various reasons why both employers and employees may want to extend an existing employment agreement. For employers, it is often to keep valuable employees who have proven their worth and are integral to the success of the company. Employers may also want to take advantage of a particular project or opportunity that requires an employee`s expertise.
For employees, extending an employment agreement provides job security, continued employment, and the ability to negotiate for better compensation and benefits. Employees may also have personal reasons for extending their employment agreement, such as completing a project or milestone.
Important Aspects of an Employment Agreement Extension
When extending an employment agreement, there are several important aspects to consider. These include:
1. Expiration Date: The extension should clearly state the new expiration date of the employment agreement. This ensures that both parties are aware of when the agreement will end.
2. Compensation: The extension should specify any changes in compensation, including salary, bonuses, and benefits. Both parties should agree to these changes before signing the extension.
3. Job Responsibilities: The extension should outline any new job responsibilities the employee may have. These responsibilities should be agreed upon by both parties before signing the extension.
4. Non-compete Agreements: The extension may include a non-compete agreement, which prohibits the employee from working for a competitor for a specified period after the employment agreement ends. These agreements are often used to protect the employer`s proprietary information and trade secrets.
5. Termination Clause: The extension should include a termination clause, which outlines the conditions under which the employer or employee can terminate the agreement. This will help avoid misunderstandings and legal disputes in the event of termination.
3 Tips for Employers and Employees
1. Start Negotiations Early: Employers and employees should start negotiating an extension well before the expiration of the current agreement. This ensures that there is enough time to reach an agreement that benefits both parties.
2. Be Prepared: Both parties should be prepared to negotiate and compromise. Employers should have a clear idea of the value the employee brings to the company, while employees should be aware of their worth in the job market.
3. Seek Legal Advice: It is always a good idea to seek legal advice before signing an employment agreement extension. This ensures that all terms and conditions are fair and legal.
Conclusion
An employment agreement extension can provide job security, continued employment, and benefits for both employers and employees. It is important to consider the key aspects of an extension, negotiate in good faith, and seek legal advice before signing. By following these tips, both parties can ensure a successful extension of the employment agreement.