Company: Microsoft
Date: 2008-10-24
Overall rating: 4/5
Employment status: current

Comfortable place in bad economy, but don't expect a startup culture
Pros: You have an opportunity to move around the company, picking whatever division interests you, as your passions change. Very stable company; never, ever had layoffs. Amazing benefits: best medical insurance in the industry; membership in the largest sports club; Connector service picks you up from near your house and takes you to the campus.
Cons: Curve-based review system that does not allow for a team of "stars" to be recognized - and does not kick out a team of "losers". Well-entrenched "old boys club", especially in cash cow organizations like Windows and Office. Many teams cultures encourage "work-life balance" (a-la IBM) instead of working your butt off for great rewards.