When I interviewed for my current job, I flew into DC and home same day, and also had to bring my breast pump. I spent two afternoons with the pump in department stores, trying to find a professional tote to use for the day that would fit the pump & heels to change into. I never should have wasted the time, I ended up using a backpack (it was newish, looked like it hadn't been taken camping, etc.) and no one cared. And it was FULL, with the pump and mini cooler for breast milk bottles. I interviewed with 3 departments that day in my suit with a backpack dragged to each conference room, got 3 job offers.

Do you have any sensible alternative to sneakers? Last time I interviewed I stuffed my heels into my largish purse and wore my practical work shoes until I got to the interview site, then swapped. No reason for a backpack.

If you work in DC, I'd estimate about 75% of people use backpacks to go to work. And if I were the hiring manager, I wouldn't think anything of it.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:This is stupid. I am a hiring manager and would never judge anyone by what they use to carry their shoes. It is very common to see backpacks. I use one instead of a purse now.

Agree. And I would just think you're practical which is a plus in my hiring opinion.

+1000 Especially in a metropolitan area that is largely dependent on public transportation. And you don't need to buy expensive, designer backpacks.