I sometimes carry mine in my laptop bag. I know that most consider that a very bad idea but I do it anyway. However when I carry my laptop I keep it close. The story about the woman staring at her purse on the other side of the table is a good one. If you do have it in your purse or briefcase keep it at your side not away from you. Here in SC if you have a CWP your purse, briefcase is considered part of your clothing so if you leave it lying around you could be charged wih going naked.
If you don't carry it on you keep it close. However no one in their right mind would say that carrying in a purse is as good as carrying on your body. But having my gun on me while in my speedo may stick our more than my belly and that would not be good.