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Signing Contracts

It is vitally important to read and understand all contracts you are given to sign, and to ask questions.

•  Understand your job parameters.

•  Ensure that you do not create legal problems by breaking contract e.g. your contract might stipulate that you cannot disclose certain information or contact certain people.

•  Ensure that the contract won't create problems for your self e.g. time parameters are not included for submitting notice of resignation, and your employer refuses to let you out of the contract; agreeing to never work in an IT company again; etc.

•  Know any penalties that might arise out of unsatisfactory work e.g. fines for arriving late at work; not being paid if you do not complete an assignment.

•  Ensure that your rights are not being abused e.g. agreeing to work for less than minimum wage, or agreeing to work when you are not allowed toilet or lunch breaks as per the law.

•  Ensure that the contract does not differ from any verbal agreements with your employer e.g. a verbal agreement for a wage of R100/day, but the contract says R80/day; or even R2000/month when you are working more than 20 days per month.

Do not be shy to ask your new employer to explain something, or to negotiate if you feel uncomfortable about any particular item in your contract. If your employer is being unreasonable, contact the CCMA (021) 461-0111 for advice, or any other local legal resource.