Core Viewpoint - The "35-year-old crisis" in the job market is gradually easing as various regions in China, including Shandong, Xinjiang, and Beijing, are lifting age restrictions for recruitment, allowing some positions to be open to candidates up to 45 years old [3][6][7]. Group 1: Changes in Recruitment Policies - Several regions have begun to relax age restrictions in recruitment, with Shandong, Xinjiang, and Beijing allowing candidates up to 45 years old for certain positions [6][7]. - The trend reflects a shift in labor market dynamics, where the aging workforce is being recognized for its value and experience [4][6]. Group 2: Demographic Trends - The average age of the labor force in China has increased from 32.25 years in 1985 to 39.72 years in 2022, indicating an aging population [8]. - Over 50% of the employed population in China is aged between 30 and 49, with the 30-39 age group making up 27.6% and the 40-49 age group at 25.1% [10]. Group 3: Labor Market Evolution - The total labor force aged 16-59 peaked at 930 million in 2012 and has since declined to 860 million in 2023, highlighting a demographic shift towards an older workforce [12]. - The proportion of individuals aged 45-64 in the labor force has increased from 27.3% in 2000 to 41.91% in 2022, with an average annual growth rate of 0.66% [12]. Group 4: Changing Perceptions of Experience - The value of experience in the job market is being reassessed, as older workers are seen as having unique advantages due to their extensive industry experience and peak physical capabilities [8][16]. - The perception of the "golden age" for employment has shifted, with predictions indicating that by 2035, the ideal age for career success may rise to 45-50 years [17].

Core Points - The "invisible red line" of age 35 has historically created anxiety for older job seekers in the workplace [1][4] - Recent changes in policies across various regions in China are loosening age restrictions for hiring, with some positions now open to candidates up to 45 years old [2][5] - The labor market is transitioning towards a more inclusive and rational approach, valuing experience and older workers [3][8] Group 1: Age Restrictions in Hiring - Regions such as Shandong, Xinjiang, Beijing, and Henan have implemented policies to eliminate age limits in recruitment for public sector jobs [5][7] - The average age of the labor force in China has increased from 32.25 years in 1985 to 39.72 years in 2022 [7] Group 2: Demographics and Labor Market Trends - The demographic shift shows that individuals aged 30 to 49 make up over 50% of the employed population, with the 30-39 age group at 27.6% and the 40-49 age group at 25.1% [11] - The total labor force aged 16-59 peaked at 930 million in 2012 and has since declined to 860 million in 2023, indicating an aging workforce [13] Group 3: Value of Experience - Older job seekers possess unique advantages, combining extensive industry experience with peak physical and execution capabilities [8] - The labor market is moving from a "quantity dividend" to a "quality dividend," with older workers becoming a crucial part of the workforce [14][23] Group 4: Changing Perceptions of Age - The traditional view of the "golden age" for employment has shifted downward to 35 years over the past three decades, but this trend may be reversing [19][24] - Research suggests that the age-income curve in China may increase, with the "golden age" for employment potentially rising to 45-50 years by 2035 [24]