Don’t auto-accept: why you should always read the fine print

We’ve all done it. A notification pops up: “We’ve updated our terms and conditions,” and without a second thought, you hit “accept.” It’s a small, seemingly harmless habit. But in business, this autopilot approach to accepting contracts can lead to costly mistakes.

Unlike agreeing to an app update, signing a business agreement locks you into terms that could shape your financial and operational future. If, a few months later, you find yourself unhappy and there’s no get-out clause, you’re stuck—and unfortunately, the responsibility lies with you.

Let’s look at why skipping the fine print is such a bad habit, the risks it poses, and how to build new, better habits to protect your business.

Why do we auto-accept?

The habit of skipping terms and conditions often comes down to:

• Convenience: it’s quicker to accept now and figure it out later.
• Trust: we assume the terms are fair and standard.
• Jargon overload: legal language can feel overwhelming, so we avoid it.

While this might work for minor things like app permissions, in business, it’s a different story. It’s the responsibility of the person reading the contract to make sure they’re read and understood it. Every detail matters, and the risks are much greater so if you don’t like what’s in the contract, you should negotiate it or walk away from it, not sign it!

The risks of skipping the fine print

When you don’t read or negotiate a contract, you open yourself up to potential problems like:

1. Automatic renewal clauses
   Unless you follow the terms of the contract for giving notice to cancel, some contracts (especially for software and outsourcing) will automatically renew, locking you in sometimes for years and at a higher cost. This is fine if you’re happy with the service and price, but a disaster if you want to go elsewhere or renegotiate the rates.
   
2. Unexpected termination clauses
   Some contracts include termination clauses that allow the other party to end the agreement with little or no notice, leaving you scrambling to replace a lost client or supplier. Without reviewing this section, you could be blindsided by a sudden termination that disrupts your business operations.
   
3. Performance obligations you can’t meet
   Certain agreements may include performance metrics or deadlines that seem manageable at first glance but become unreasonable in practise. If you don’t review these requirements thoroughly, you might find yourself penalised for failing to meet unrealistic expectations.
   
4. Confidentiality pitfalls
   Confidentiality clauses can cut both ways. While they protect sensitive information, they can also impose restrictions on what you can disclose or reuse. Skipping these clauses might leave you in breach of contract without realising it.
   
5. Non-compete clauses
   Some contracts, particularly with suppliers, employees, or contractors, may include non-compete clauses that limit your ability to work with others in the same industry. These restrictions can hinder your growth or partnerships if you don’t spot and address them upfront.

Start building better habits

Breaking the auto-accept habit might feel difficult at first, but small changes can make a big difference.

1. Take the time to read
   It sounds obvious, but the first step is to slow down and read the contract in full. Don’t allow the time pressure of the project to cloud your judgment. Highlight anything that feels unclear or unreasonable.
   
2. Ask the right questions
   Before signing, ask yourself:
   – what am I agreeing to?
   – are the terms fair and balanced?
   – is there an exit clause?
   – do the obligations match what we discussed?
   – If there’s intellectual property (IP) involved, does it address who owns the IP and how it should be treated?
   
3. Don’t assume you can’t negotiate
   Most contracts are open to negotiation, especially in business. If you spot an issue—like a lack of exit options or unclear IP terms—ask for changes. A good contract works for both parties, not just one.
   
4. Seek expert advice
   If you’re unsure about the terms, get a professional to review the contract. It’s a small investment that can save you from much bigger costs or headaches down the line.

Make reviewing contracts second nature

Building new habits around contracts isn’t just about protecting yourself—it’s about setting your business up for long-term success. By taking the time to understand and negotiate agreements, you’ll avoid unnecessary risks and make decisions with confidence.

So, the next time a contract lands in your inbox, pause. Read the fine print. Ask questions. And if you’re not happy with the terms, don’t be afraid to push back or walk away.

Got a question about a tricky contract? Or want to make sure your agreements are watertight? Please get in touch