I’ve started applying for jobs outside of 3M. Some of them ask if there is anything to stop me from doing the work (like a non-compete clause or similar). Does anyone know if this is a thing for 3M? I looked on the company portal and of course can’t find anything.
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3M rarely cares...unless you are planning to take a key trade secret to a competitor.
It isn't just working for a competitor (3M is so large, everyone is a competitor). If you have level 1 trade secrets, then you may get pushback if going to a competitor that makes a directly similar product and would benefit from that trade secret. Of course, I'm no lawyer.
@OP There is some vague language in your employment agreement when you started at 3M. Several 3M executives and VPs left and went to competitors without worrying about non-compete, moreover, I remember about ten years ago the VP of IATD (initials JM) left and went to a direct competitor, 3M tried to stop him, they had to pay his salary for two years while he was waiting the required period for non-compete. So, if they try to stop you from taking another job, they have to pay you. Finally, when you leave 3M, HR tries to make you sign a very detailed and comprehensive non-compete, don't sign it. your manager will imply you need to sign it, but legally, 3M can't make you sign such a form unless they pay you severance.
From someone in the know, noncompetes are almost always impossible to enforce and 3M has no appetite to even try.
Look in workday. The agreement that you signed should be there.
Even the chief HR and chief IT officers have applied for new jobs
3M couldn’t deploy SAP after all this time. Even if there is anything to stop you from going to a competitor, it is probably outsourced and requires a ticket. Find whatever makes you happy and don’t think twice.