How to pass the behavior interview (for software engineers)?

nothing wrong with being self assured. too many engineers are overly humble. my advice, take cocaine before the interview and if its too warm strip down to your underwear.

Confidence without arrogance , a hunger to learn, and a positive attitude will get you the job. I interview over 100 people every year, and that's all I'm looking for. Skills can be taught, attitude can't.

The interviewer sounds as chirpy as the person he/she is interviewing: you Americans are (way) too relaxed! It's interesting that the "technical questions" are treated in such special ways: I think it is mainly to check if you have an understanding of some Computer science theory. Anyone can get these questions right by memorising set answers and/or researching for their own projects. Skills can be learnt fast, but mindsets take AGES to modify. <== the advantage a beginner has over an experienced person. As for the workplace recruiting, they are fully aware that as soon as the developer becomes experienced, s/he will move on to another job. The trick with an interview is to SHOW that you have a unique approach to the tasks/industry/work ethic that your future company will not find in anyone else. Basics are: being punctual, being reliable, being committed to good + standards, being an effective communicator. You can lack in one or two of these, but three or more means you need more work/project/internship experience. Bottom line: Some things you learn, but most things you ARE. It's easy for a recruiter to see whether you fit in their company or not. In the end, when they do or do not offer you a job, it is often for the BETTER! :)

The best interview goes like this. Interviewer: " Look, you're already hired. We've filled out the application for you. It's just a formality. You just need to sign it." This way you don't have to be humiliated by the some dingbat 'human resources" receptionist.