2006 Revenues: $44.3 billion
Full-time employees: 71,172
Website: www.microsoft.com
Get quote: MSFT
Type of company: Software
What makes it so great? The software king seeks out problem-solvers and creative thinkers, who are enticed by a youthful work environment (the average age of employees is 36.8 years), a highly competitive average starting salary around $75,000 per year, full medical coverage with no deductible, signing bonuses, options grants, and 401(k) matching. Xbox kiosks help keep energy levels high - that's one perk you won't see at Google - and the free soft drinks and Starbucks don't hurt either. In 2006, the company hired 1,200 college grads out of 60,000 applicants; 40% of those new hires were minorities.