Should I Wear My Rolex Watch to a Job Interview?

Going on a job interview requires an attention to detail that can determine the future of your career. Dressing appropriately is just one of the many boxes that need to be checked before walking into the building. Other considerations include brushing up on current events, researching the company and preparing to answer questions about the position and your qualifications. Many Rolex owners wonder if wearing their luxury timepiece to a job interview is a good idea. While there is not one concrete answer to the question, there are variables to take into consideration when making the decision. 

Should I Wear My Rolex Watch to a Job Interview? (photo: Olu Eletu)

First Impressions

The first impression you make on the interviewer will give them an idea of what kind of candidate you are, so it is important to put your best foot forward when walking into the room. Blogs will tell you to dress for the job that you want, no the job you have. So, even if you are interviewing for an entry level position, you may want to dress appropriately for a management position to show your level of interest in moving up in the company. It is important to get an idea of the company culture and research the dress code as much as you would other important details about the workplace.

Tone Down the Wrist Game

In general, wearing a wristwatch gives a classic touch to your professional attire and indicates that you are someone who likes to be prompt. However, the watch you choose to wear should not draw too much attention. If you are trying to get a job at a company where the top level executives are wearing affordable watches and you walk in with a gold Rolex on your wrist, they may find it ostentatious or think that you don't need the job as much as another candidate. While these judgments may be wrong, there is no way for you to avoid them unless you tone down the wrist game.

Rule of Thumb

A good rule of thumb when choosing a watch for a job interview is to make sure that the model you choose is appropriate for the salary of the position you are seeking. So, for example, if you are going for an executive position at a financial firm, you may want to wear a precious metal model to show that you have been successful in the past. However, if you wear a wristwatch that costs more than a few month's salary in the position you are interviewing for, you may want to swap it for something more affordable. This way you show the interviewer that you are prompt and responsible, but still have something to work toward financially.

Exercise Good Judgment 

There is no right or wrong when it comes to wearing a Rolex to a job interview but exercising good judgment in your wardrobe choice is a great way to make a first impression on a potential employer. If you are a watch collector with many models to choose from, the decision may seem easy. If you own your grail watch but think it may send mixed signals to the interviewer, you may want to invest in a Seiko or Timex watch as an affordable alternative. This way you can save your best watches for occasions when you can show them off proudly without being concerned about how it may affect your career prospects.

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