Summary of Key Points
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the workplace: The number of entry-level positions, such as those involving document organization and data sheet creation, has significantly decreased by 20% year-on-year. In contrast, there is a surge in demand for more senior roles that require decision-making skills and industry expertise (for individuals over 35 years old) as well as AI-related positions (with fresh graduates starting at salaries of 17,000 yuan). The underlying logic is that AI has taken over routine, physical tasks, and what companies are now looking for are people who can leverage AI to enhance their experience. Those over 35 can overcome their physical limitations by combining their experience with AI; however, young professionals who rely solely on AI without building practical experience may end up with nothing.
I. Why Are Entry-Level Positions Declining?
AI has taken over repetitive tasks that used to be done by new employees, such as document writing, data research, and code modification. For example, Blair’s team used to have five researchers screening resumes; now, with the help of AI, only two consultants are needed, resulting in a 60% increase in efficiency. Consulting firms once hired dozens of part-time assistants for data organization, but now AI can handle most of that work, reducing the need for entry-level positions by half. Peter from a startup mentioned that new hires in product and marketing roles often struggle because AI has already done the basic tasks, and companies want individuals who can make immediate judgments and decisions.
Conclusion: It’s not that companies are no longer hiring; rather, AI is replacing jobs that involve purely mechanical tasks, leaving only those that cannot be automated.
II. Opportunities for Those Over 35?
Experience combined with AI can be a game-changer. In the past, people over 35 were considered too costly and less resilient, but now AI helps them compensate for their physical limitations. For instance, Chen, a technical recruiter, explained how a 42-year-old director quickly resolved a complex code issue using his experience. Wu Senzhe, who returned to a large company at the age of 35, found that companies value professionals who understand the business and can use AI effectively; he developed intelligent tools that increased his output significantly, doubling his salary. Blair also noted that cloud service providers now require candidates with more than five years of experience for solution-related roles, as they need to identify customer needs and potential risks associated with AI implementation—these are tasks that AI cannot handle.
Conclusion: Experience is no longer a disadvantage for those over 35; it has become a valuable asset that allows them to leverage AI more effectively.
III. What Matters in the AI Era?
In the AI era, it’s not about simply being able to perform tasks but about knowing how to approach problems correctly. While AI can solve issues quickly, humans are needed to determine the right approaches. For example, young professionals may be fast at using AI (e.g., creating plugins), but those over 35 can identify which business processes can be optimized by AI. During interviews, companies ask not just about past use of AI but about its impact on specific tasks and whether it has solved real business problems. Key skills include the ability to judge correctly, understand complex situations, transform requirements into actionable AI tasks, and continuously learn—these are all areas where AI cannot replace humans.
Conclusion: In the AI era, “executive ability” is less valuable than “decision-making power.”
IV. Don’t Panic, Young Professionals… But Don’t Rely Solely on AI
While AI can help new employees produce quickly, it also means they may lack practical experience. Chen warned that those who rely too much on AI may struggle to stand out when they reach 35 without the physical advantages of their younger peers. Jin Han pointed out that while AI can be useful for simple tasks, relying solely on it can prevent them from gaining valuable experience. New graduates should use AI as a tool but also learn to solve problems independently.
Conclusion: Young professionals have opportunities in AI-related technical roles, but they need to avoid becoming overly dependent on AI and instead build real-world experience through practice and experimentation.
V. Three Practical Tips for Success
To stay ahead, whether you are over 35 or young:
1. View AI as a tool, not a competitor: Use AI to assist with tasks like document writing and data research, while focusing on making decisions.
2. Develop comprehensive skills: Knowing how to develop software is important, but so is understanding the business and being able to communicate effectively with clients.
3. Keep learning and be open to change: AI evolves rapidly, so it’s essential to embrace new tools and methods (those who started using AI in 2023 have a deeper understanding than those who followed the trend in 2026).
Conclusion: AI levels the playing field for everyone; those who are willing to learn and use AI will be able to thrive in this new environment.
Final Summary
AI is not designed to eliminate people over 35; it aims to identify those who can effectively utilize its capabilities. Opportunities are available, but you must take the initiative to learn and apply them.