• Glassdoor just recently published its list of the best companies of 2018.
• Business Insider scoured the job site to find out what employees loved the most about their workplaces.
• Reviewers appreciated mission-driven companies, smart colleagues, and a strong sense of work-life balanced.
Glassdoor’s list of the best companies of 2018 is out, and companies from all kinds of industries – from tech to retail to finance – are represented.
To discern what made the companies featured in the rankings stand out, we scoured hundreds of reviews for the top 15 companies.
We found a few recurring themes in the positive reviews of said companies. People seem to value mission-driven workplaces, as well as organizations that foster a strong work-life balance, attract smart coworkers, and provide opportunities for training and learning.
Here’s a look at what employees love about working at the 15 most popular companies in the US:
Bain employees appreciate working with smart people
At Bain, Glassdoor reviewers said you won't just work with your colleagues - you'll learn from them, as well.
"The people you will meet throughout your career are some of the smartest, most passionate, and helpful people you will ever meet," wrote one Chicago-based employee.
People at the E. & J. Gallo Winery love that it's family-owned
Plenty of Glassdoor reviewers attributed E. & J. Gallo Winery's positive company culture to the fact it's family-owned.
"As a family-owned organization it's no surprise that E. & J. Gallo has an outstanding company culture," one current anonymous employee wrote. "From top to bottom, Gallo's greatest strength is the people. Senior level managers not only provide great leadership but also serve as great mentors."
At McKinsey & Company, workers say their brilliant colleagues are a major perk
Learning on the job is one of the best perks at this consulting firm.
"Very smart people, generally very good team dynamics, fantastic learning opportunities given fast pace, senior leadership exposure, and high levels of responsibility," an anonymous employee wrote on Glassdoor.
People at HubSpot rave about the company's work-life balance
"An absolutely fantastic work environment," one HubSpot sales trainer based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, wrote. "Very inclusive, great work-life balance, and wonderful coworkers. There is plenty of room for growth, and I love the opportunities for cross-collaboration across departments. I'd recommend Hubspot to anyone."
Facebook employees enjoy the company's many convenient perks, like the ubiquitous free food
At Facebook, employees say the perks are all about making life easier.
"Facebook has a unique culture that encourages people to be their authentic self and do work they are passionate about," an anonymous Facebook employee wrote on Glassdoor. "They invest in their people through training, progressive benefits and great perks like free food. Great place to work!"
Lululemon employees can purchase products using the generous employee discount
"Great benefits like free workout classes, very generous discount on clothing for yourself, and fun environment," wrote one anonymous former employee on Glassdoor.
Salesforce employees say you can't beat the company when it comes to work-life balance
"Probably couldn't find a better work-life balance anywhere in the bay," wrote one current San Francisco-based software engineer on Glassdoor.
Employees at In-N-Out Burger say the pay is fantastic for the industry
"Flexible schedule, good pay for burger flipping, fun fast-paced environment," wrote a current San Francisco-based shift manager on Glassdoor. "Great opportunity for growth and moving up the ladder. Learned strong work ethic here which set me up for my future career."
At SAP, the biggest perk is flexibility, according to workers
"Benefits, Maternity/Paternity leave, lunch credit, free drinks, and events with snacks," wrote one current employee on Glassdoor. "Although there have been some departmental changes recently, managers have been open and accepting of our comments. The flexibility to work from home is very helpful as it gives a weekly environment change."
The Boston Consulting Group is a great place to work if you want to learn a ton, according to employees
"Steep learning curve but everyone is willing to help you along the way as long as one makes the effort and have the right attitude," a former intern wrote on Glassdoor." People culture definitely a big plus!"
Employees at Ultimate Software say the company culture puts people first
On Glassdoor, Ultimate Software employees say putting people first isn't just a corporate platitude at their company.
"Ultimate has a great culture and truly puts people first," wrote one anonymous employee on Glassdoor. "I was a bit skeptical when I applied because all companies say that, but there's really a different, positive energy here."
The mission is what counts at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
"Great environment, great benefits and most importantly a wonderful mission," wrote one anonymous employee on Glassdoor.
Folks at Google love working with their talented coworkers
Googlers took to Glassdoor to let you know the hype is real.
"What they say is true," wrote one Los Angeles-based senior software engineer on Glassdoor. "It's a great place to work. Compensation and work/life balance are excellent. Colleagues are top-notch engineers. Decision-making is mostly sound."
Workers at World Wide Technology appreciate the support from management
"Management is constantly seeking new ways to engage all levels of employees," wrote an anonymous employee on Glassdoor. "Employees are encouraged to improve company processes. World Wide Technology's culture is positive and we set the core values as a priority. We trust our employees and give them the freedom the need to 'shine.'"
Keller Williams employees highlight the firm's training and support systems
At Keller Williams, the environment is all about learning, according to employees at the global real estate firm.
"A+ training and support system," wrote a realtor in Stockbridge, Georgia on Glassdoor. "Anytime that you need help, it is there for you. The systems, tools, and culture are top notch!"