Fast Company Daily Need smart, creative, employees who will master their jobs? Science says hire people in their 30s, 40s, and even 60s
Nov 12, 2025
Explore how creativity peaks later in life, with research showing that major innovations often come after age 40. Discover why performance tends to improve during middle age, as mastery develops into the late 30s and 40s. Older entrepreneurs frequently outperform younger counterparts, thanks to deep knowledge and experience. Hiring based on skills rather than age bias can unlock immense potential. Learn from examples like Steve Jobs, who found his greatest success in his late career.
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Business Owner Prefers Hiring 20-Somethings
- A business owner the host knows hires only people in their 20s believing they bring fresh ideas and skills.
- The host notes that approach can be right sometimes but is generally contradicted by research.
Creative Peaks Happen Later
- Scientific studies show creative peaks often occur in the late 30s, 40s, or later rather than in early adulthood.
- Creativity depends on deep, interconnected knowledge built over years, not just raw talent or early novelty.
Middle-Aged Founders Outperform Younger Ones
- Research finds entrepreneurs and inventors often perform best in middle age due to accumulated experience and networks.
- Older founders leverage business skills and capital access that increase odds of startup success.