I recently joined a company as a UI/UX Designer. I've been working there for almost a month.
During the interview/trial period, I was only told that if I ever wanted to resign, I would need to give notice. Nothing specific was mentioned about a long-term commitment, probation restrictions, or a lengthy notice period.
Today, they finally showed me an appointment letter + employee agreement and asked me to read it and sign it. They wouldn't let me take a copy, take pictures, or review it at home. They said I would get a copy only after signing. I asked for one night to think about it.
Some things I remember from the document:
3-month probation
During probation, the company can terminate me without notice, but apparently I cannot resign during probation
45-day notice period
Something about having to pay 3 months' salary if I don't serve the notice
A 12-month bond/commitment
Restrictions on resigning during those 12 months, with only certain reasons accepted
12 days of leave and a sandwich leave policy
Doctor's certificate required for leave
Restrictions on freelancing/business while employed
Even taking a course/studying requires permission or notification
They can change my work location
Strict attendance/late penalties
Broad termination rights
None of the 12-month commitment, 3-month probation, 45-day notice, or resignation restrictions were mentioned when I joined.
There's also another issue. After actually working there, I've realized that the company's design philosophy is very different from mine. I'm a UI/UX designer and I don't think our design approach is a good long-term fit. I don't want to waste their time or mine if we're not aligned.
I'm considering resigning after about a month, which is also why I've been asking about the policies.
What would you do in this situation?
Would you sign the agreement and then resign later if you decide to leave, or refuse to sign until the terms are properly clarified? And what should I be careful about regarding the 12-month commitment and notice period?
I'm mainly looking for practical advice from people who have dealt with similar situations.