Maybe I am too hard headed.

Questions like this sound way too much like "admit it, my pen1s is much larger than your pen1s. Admit it, or be passed over"

It is a bit like "one must wear a certain suit and tie to be hired here". I understand I need to wear a proper business suit since this IS a conservative industry, but my tie is my way of expressing myself in a conservative environment. I don't go for a Jerry Garcia at an interview (though he has produced some attractive ties), but I DO like to show my taste and personality. If that doesn't conform enough, I don't think I want to work there.