gAlumni Gives Back 2026

Last week was Genentech Gives Back Week, and for the second time, Joseph invited all of the alums to a special gAlumni volunteer event.

As with every meetup, I got to see former colleagues I'm blessed to now call friends (👋🏽 Gerry and Chris!), meet new faces, and contribute to a wonderful cause.

Through Genentech alumni events (and Laura's incredible Genentech Women's Circle), I met Lis. Through Lis, I met Ann—and last week, I got to meet Ann in person for the very first time! Lis also connected me with an incredible client I would've otherwise never met.

That's how community works.

One introduction leads to another. One shared experience creates trust. One connection opens the door to relationships you never would have expected.

And sometimes, those relationships open doors professionally, too!

Many of my clients have come through referrals from Genentech connections (or are former Genentechers themselves!).

THIS is how you access the hidden job market.

It's often sitting right inside the communities you've already built.

These are the people who have seen you do great work and are happy to tell others about it. 🎊

Tomorrow on LinkedIn Live, Joe and I will be talking about how to intentionally integrate your existing communities into your networking strategy—whether that's reconnecting with former colleagues, exploring opportunities to boomerang back to an organization you loved, or leveraging trusted relationships for referrals and introductions.

Because your network isn't just a list of contacts.

It's a community.

And community has a way of opening doors. 🔑