Amid an economic downturn and regulatory pressures, Chinese tech giants are grappling with significant management challenges. These difficulties have led to extensive layoffs, disproportionately affecting employees in their mid-30s.
The ‘curse of 35’
The so-called “curse of 35” has been a persistent issue in China’s tech sector, with executives openly expressing a preference for younger, unmarried workers. This bias against older workers stems from the perception that they are less willing to work long hours due to family obligations, less capable of adapting to new technologies, while also demanding higher salaries.
In 2019, Tencent’s President, Martin Lau, announced plans to restructure 10% of the company’s management by replacing older employees with younger, “more passionate” talent. Similarly, Baidu’s CEO, Robin Li, expressed his intention for the company to “become more youthful by promoting more workers born after 1980 and 1990”.
‘996’ work schedule
Managers also point to the demanding work culture, notoriously known as the “996” work routine (referring to a schedule of 9am to 9pm, six days a week), as a reason for favouring younger workers, who are seen as more energetic and able to dedicate themselves fully to the company’s demands.
Young workforce
This sentiment is evident in data revealing the industry’s notably young workforce. According to a report released by Maimai in 2020, the average age of employees at China’s top 19 internet companies is between the ages of 27 and 33, well below the national average of 38.3. Tech giants like ByteDance and Pinduoduo boast an average employee age of just 27.
Impact on mid-career professionals
This trend has been intensified by the recent economic challenges faced by the industry, leaving many mid-career professionals struggling to remain in employment. Many Chinese civil service departments set an age limit of under 35 for their entrance exams. Job listings in the service industry, such as restaurants and hotels, also seek younger candidates. This leaves tech professionals in their mid-30s with limited options when seeking to switch careers or secure short-term work during transitional periods.