The Value Of Age

In the professional contracting sector, age and experience are appreciated far more than they are in traditional employment sectors. High-skilled independent contractors typically make their entrance into, and exit from, the job market approximately 10 years later than employees. The value of experience is evident in daily rates that become progressively higher with age. The highest daily rates are charged by independent contractors who are 60 years of age or older. However, the benefits associated with age in this sector are not only financial with high levels of satisfaction in life and work also reported in the statistics below.

These findings are important because they highlight how independent contracting can be an extremely valuable career option for older high-skilled workers who may feel undervalued in traditional employment sectors. Furthermore, it suggests that there is immense untapped potential among those over 60 who can bring significant value to the economy at a time when many are being forced into retirement. As we face a national pension crisis, these results indicate that creating a more conducive environment for older high-skilled independent contractors could potentially offer part of a solution. We should embrace this workforce and recognise the immense value that experienced workers have to offer.