When I first started my job search in Boston, I only knew my brother and my friend, Julie. I was counting on Informational Interviews that I had learned about at the University of Virginia to get me in some doors and help me land a job. I wrote about the process here, and through the many, many interviews I was able to build a network. Those early conversations didn’t just help me find a job. They helped me find my people.

It’s no wonder then that I learned early on the value of professional organizations and connections.

People helping people. That’s always been the magic.

One organization that has meant a lot to me over the years is HRBA – Human Resources BioAlliance. I joined 15 or maybe even 20 years ago (time is fuzzy, friendships are not), and it was a vibrant hub of local HR professionals in the life sciences. We gathered regularly to share ideas, swap resources, troubleshoot thorny workplace problems, and — most importantly — support one another. Real mentoring happened. Real friendships grew.

But lately, our spark is dimming.

We still have nearly the same number of members. But the energy? The engagement? It’s just not the same. Our programs aren’t as well attended. Fewer people carve out the time to meet in person. And our virtual events, while practical, often lack that serendipitous spark — the hallway conversations, the shared laughter, the whispered “I thought it was just me.”

The reason many of us on the board continue to show up is simple: someone from this organization once showed up for us. And we want to pay that forward.

I’ve spoken with leaders in two other professional groups I’m part of, and guess what? They’re experiencing the same thing. The convenience of virtual connection has made it easier to stay home, but perhaps harder to feel truly connected.

So here’s my question for you: What makes you want to show up in person?

Yes, it’s more effort. Parking is annoying. Traffic is real. But has there been a time when you walked into a room and left feeling energized, validated, and maybe even inspired?

And if you’re not attending events in person, that’s okay too, but where are you getting your professional mentorship? Who’s cheering you on? Who’s helping you grow?

I don’t ask these questions to guilt anyone. Quite the opposite. I ask because I firmly believe that professional connection still matters. That we’re better when we’re together. That sometimes the very thing we didn’t think we had time for ends up being the thing that fills our cup the most.

So whether it’s HRBA or another group that once meant something to you, maybe it’s time to revisit it. Re-engage. Or start your own ripple.

Because showing up is still powerful. And it might just be what someone else needs — or what you need — right now.