The author shares insights from their experience with Cursor, a growing company in the AI space. Initially approached for marketing perspectives, the author found themselves unexpectedly recruited after a series of informal conversations with the team. They were drawn to Cursor’s unique culture and the potential for the company to become a significant player in the AI sector, given that no major company has emerged from this era yet. Cursor's San Francisco office, located in North Beach, reflects its unpretentious culture. The space feels more like a cozy gathering spot than a typical startup, with no branding or corporate decor. The layout encourages collaboration, with 86% of employees working in person, relying on spontaneous interactions rather than formal meetings. Lunch, prepared by the company chef Fausto, fosters community as employees gather to discuss work and share ideas. The environment promotes a high level of engagement among team members, making it easy for newcomers to integrate and contribute. Recruitment at Cursor stands out for its personal touch. Instead of filling positions based on job specs, the process focuses on identifying exceptional individuals and capturing their interest. The team has grown rapidly, from under 20 employees to around 250 in just a year. The recruitment strategy relies on genuine curiosity and connections, with team members actively recommending candidates in a Slack channel dedicated to hiring ideas. This approach creates a dynamic and responsive hiring culture, essential for a fast-paced startup like Cursor.