In a remarkable testament to the magnetic pull of innovation, AI voice technology company ElevenLabs has become one of the most coveted workplaces on the planet. The $6.6 billion valuation startup received an astounding 180,000 applications in the first half of last year alone—a number that speaks volumes about the excitement surrounding artificial intelligence and the company's inspiring mission.

The extraordinary interest in working at ElevenLabs was highlighted when podcaster and venture capitalist Harry Stebbings shared the striking statistic on LinkedIn in December. While his comparison to Harvard University's admission rates may have been designed to capture attention, it succeeded in sparking a meaningful conversation about what makes certain companies so incredibly attractive to top talent.

Out of those tens of thousands of hopeful applicants, 132 exceptional individuals ultimately joined the ElevenLabs team. Victoria Weller, the company's VP of operations, sees this overwhelming interest as a beautiful reflection of what the organization has built. "On average, we're seeing more people apply every quarter," she notes with evident pride.

Rather than viewing the competitive nature as discouraging, Weller frames it as an opportunity for inspiration and excellence. "I hope that the high number of applicants motivates people—it's inspiring to work somewhere that's hard to get in," she explains. Drawing a parallel to prestigious academic institutions, she adds, "It's like Harvard: once you're in, you know you're surrounded by the best people in an inspiring environment."

This phenomenon isn't just about exclusivity—it's about the power of purpose-driven work. ElevenLabs is pioneering AI voice technology that's transforming how people communicate and interact with digital platforms. For talented professionals, the chance to work on cutting-edge technology that could shape the future is an irresistible draw.

The surge in applications also reflects a broader trend in the tech industry: people are increasingly seeking out companies where they can make a meaningful impact while working alongside exceptional colleagues. The competitive application process ensures that those who do join bring not just skills, but passion, creativity, and dedication to innovation.

For job seekers, the message is ultimately encouraging. Yes, landing a position at a top-tier tech company requires excellence, persistence, and sometimes a bit of luck. But the fact that so many people are inspired to apply demonstrates the incredible opportunities available in the technology sector. Each application represents someone pursuing their dreams and believing in their potential to contribute to groundbreaking work.

Moreover, ElevenLabs' ability to attract such extraordinary talent creates a virtuous cycle: great people attract more great people, fostering an environment where innovation thrives and ambitious projects become reality. For those who do make it through the door, they're joining a community of driven individuals all working toward transforming the future of technology.

The story of ElevenLabs' recruitment success is ultimately one of inspiration—showing us that when companies create compelling visions and foster environments where talented people can do their best work, the world's brightest minds will eagerly answer the call.