Experience over potential
The shift reflects a labour market that has become more selective, prioritising immediate productivity and job readiness over long-term potential, according to workforce intelligence company Revelio Labs. When economic growth slows, firms tend to become more conservative in their hiring practices, favouring workers who can contribute from day one.
“The current cycle shows a labour market that remains active but is increasingly tilted towards experience,” according to an analysis by Revelio Labs chief economist Lisa Simon.
The change is occurring almost entirely within occupations rather than through shifts between industries. The same roles are being filled by older workers than in the past, rather than new positions emerging that inherently require older employees.
Service roles age fastest
Service-intensive and people-facing positions have experienced the most pronounced ageing since 2015. Service operations, sales representatives, claims adjusters, office assistants, and real estate agents have all seen average ages rise by close to three years.
These roles reward accumulated experience, interpersonal skills, and institutional knowledge – qualities that compound over time. Workers over 65 are disproportionately starting new roles in sales, strategy, community-facing, and teaching positions, with sales representatives showing the strongest overrepresentation.