What interviewers really look for

Can you do the job?

This is the part most people prepare for. Can you structure a problem, do the analysis or write the code? It matters, but it is rarely what separates the final few candidates.

Show your thinking, not just your answer. An interviewer who can follow your reasoning can give you credit even if you make a small mistake.

Do you really want it?

Firms invest heavily in new joiners and they want people who will stay and do well. Generic motivation is easy to spot. Specific reasons are convincing.

Talk about what you have done to explore the field, who you have spoken to and what in particular draws you to this firm.

Would we want to work with you?

This is the question most candidates underestimate. Interviewers imagine sitting next to you on a long project or a late night. Are you calm, curious and easy to work with?

Listen properly, admit what you do not know and stay friendly when the questions get hard. Small things like how you react to a hint say a lot.

How to show all three

Prepare for the content, but also practise the delivery. Record yourself or, better, practise with someone who has interviewed or been interviewed at your target firm. They can tell you how you come across, which is very hard to judge alone.