"I see many of my colleagues carrying backpacks to work, and I think they look out of place with a suit," says Marcus. "Is there a better option?"

Backpacks work well for children carrying their homework to school or for hikers carrying essentials on a mountain climb, but toting a backpack to the office diminishes a man's professional image.

Instead, consider carrying a durable, soft-sided leather briefcase when wearing corporate attire. If you have a more relaxed dress code, a versatile messenger bag maintains both functionality and professionalism.

Tune in tomorrow when we'll discuss professional bags for women.

› Click here to listen to the professional polish audio clip