Key Takeaways

  • 94% of workers support the elimination of noncompetes by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
  • 70% are now more likely to work for a competitor of their current or previous employer
  • 74% of workers have signed a noncompete in the past.
  • Only 10% of workers believe noncompetes are fair to both employees and employers.

Why Workers Oppose Noncompetes

For decades, noncompete agreements have been common across industries, limiting where and when employees could work after leaving a job. Monster’s recent survey highlights strong opposition to these contracts, with the vast majority of workers pointing to restrictions on mobility and opportunity.

  • 87% say noncompetes restrict potential job opportunities.
  • 80% say their length can harm job seekers.
  • 73% believe they have a negative impact on career growth.

By contrast, only a small share view noncompetes positively. Just 25% say they help protect intellectual property, and only 10% feel they contribute to market stability.

The Competitive Edge: A New Era for Workers

With the FTC’s ruling, many workers see brighter prospects ahead. The potential benefits of eliminating noncompetes include:

  • 87% expect more career and job opportunities.
  • 78% anticipate fairer market competition across industries.
  • 62% predict a more lucrative job market overall.
  • 60% look forward to greater employee mobility.

This ruling also means employees are more open to leaving for competitors if offered better benefits. Workers cite the following top motivators for making the switch:

  • 75% higher salary.
  • 67% healthier work-life balance.
  • 62% stronger career growth opportunities.
  • 58% more flexible scheduling options.

Why It Matters

The elimination of noncompetes could fundamentally reshape the U.S. job market. By expanding worker freedom, reducing barriers to mobility, and encouraging competition, the ruling opens the door to a more dynamic labor market.

Outside experts echo this impact. According to the Economic Policy Institute, nearly 30 million workers, about 18% of the U.S. workforce, were previously bound by noncompetes, even in industries like retail and fast food where trade secrets were not at stake (EPI, 2023). The FTC’s decision aims to level the playing field and ensure that workers, not restrictive contracts, determine their career paths.

Methodology:

This poll was conducted by Monster in August 2024 among more than 1,800 U.S. workers across industries and experience levels. Respondents were asked about their experiences with misleading job descriptions, employer transparency, and personal honesty during the application process. The survey reflects the perspectives of employed and job-seeking individuals in the United States, offering insights into both candidate and employer behaviors in today’s labor market.

Take the Next Step

The job market is shifting in favor of workers, with new opportunities on the horizon. If you’re ready to explore fresh career possibilities, create your free Monster profile today and discover employers eager to compete for your talent.

 

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Vicki Salemi Career Advice Expert

Vicki Salemi is a nationally recognized career expert who helps professionals navigate the hiring landscape and find the right fit on Monster. With over 15 years of experience in corporate recruiting and HR, she offers expert guidance on job search strategies, interview preparation, and career development to help candidates land their next role.

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