My anecdotal experience says: Large companies want to see theory (hacking together something that 98% works in a short period of time is less important than so

My anecdotal experience says: Large companies want to see theory (hacking together something that 98% works in a short period of time is less important than something that is maintainable and comprehensive), and they are willing to teach you the rest (they expect a few weeks of ramp-up time). Small companies want to see ideas and how you can deliver (having a history of small-company product launches or open-source work is a plus). The ideas part is pretty important, esp in startups with less than 5 people -- everyone needs to be an innovator not simply an implementor. Also, show that you can hit the ground running, what would you do if they asked you to start the same day you interviewed -- have a plan to bring value quickly. [edit-0: Good luck!]