TIN #111 - How To Beat (Networking) Burnout
What To Do When Networking Is Not Working For You
Hey there, introverts!
This week’s newsletter about a problem you might face if you follow all of my advice: networking burnout.
Whether you’re drained from too many in-person events or feel exhausted from keeping up with all those one-on-ones, burnout is real.
But guess what?
It doesn’t have to stop you from growing your network.
Let’s see how you can manage networking burnout and keep your momentum going without running yourself ragged.
This issue takes about 4 minutes to read…
Before We Get Started:
My online course, “5 Steps To Grow Your Professional Network,” is FREE for all my newsletter subscribers. Learn the process I use everyday to grow my professional network.
Each week, I post a new podcast with tips you’ll find in the weekly newsletter and bonus stories, wisdom, and motivation. The Introverted Networker podcast is like the weekly newsletter but with additional narration and thoughts from me. Be sure to listen to this week’s podcast and check out the previous episodes of the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more networking tips and insights.
The video version of the podcast is available on my YouTube channel.
Why Networking Burnout Happens
Networking can be intense—especially for introverts.
Whether you’re out at events or setting up virtual coffees, constantly connecting with people can be draining.
Recently, I attended an HR event (which I normally avoid) and put into practice a few strategies I’ve shared before in TIN #015 - How to network at conferences - part 1 and part 2.
Even though I prepared in advance, brought my signature conversation-starting t-shirt, and met a lot of great people, I ended up feeling wiped out afterward.
The result?
I’m taking a little break.
And that’s OK.
Burnout happens when we push ourselves too hard, and it’s important to recognize when we need to slow down.
The key is to manage it in a way that lets you recharge while keeping your networking efforts consistent.
Strategy 1: Adjust the Frequency
If your schedule is overloaded with back-to-back coffees, lunches, and happy hours, it’s no surprise you’re feeling burnt out.
You don’t have to meet everyone in person right away.
Dial down the frequency by spreading meetings out over a few weeks or months.
Instead of five meetings a week, try one or two.
By doing this, you’ll stay connected without exhausting yourself.
Also, if you’re trying to maintain your network rather than actively job-hunting, focus on fewer, more meaningful connections.
You don’t need to connect with everyone at once.
Think of networking as a marathon, not a sprint.
Strategy 2: Leverage Virtual Conversations
Face-to-face meetings are great, but they’re not the only way to connect.
Phone or video calls can be just as effective for maintaining your network.
They’re quicker, easier to schedule, and don’t require you to leave the house.
Instead of spending time driving, parking, and sitting through an hour-long meeting, consider a 30-minute phone call.
Pro tip: You’ll still get quality conversations without the time drain, and it’s especially helpful for introverts who prefer conserving energy for key moments.
Strategy 3: Focus on Small Wins
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by sending out dozens of follow-up emails or messages every week, remember that small, consistent actions matter more than big, infrequent bursts.
Instead of sending 10 messages in one day, send one or two each day.
If you can’t fit a meeting or phone call into your day, engage in smaller networking actions like leaving comments on LinkedIn posts or sending a quick message to reconnect with someone.
These actions take just a minute or two but help you stay in the networking game without adding stress.
Keep the Momentum Going
The most important thing to remember is to keep moving, even if it’s at a slower pace.
The worst thing you can do is stop altogether.
If you feel burnt out, scale back, but don’t quit.
Networking is about being consistent, and small, steady efforts will always pay off more in the long run than trying to do everything at once and burning out.
Remember, no zero days—even if all you do is leave a comment or send a connection request.
The key is to keep the momentum going without overwhelming yourself.
I hope these tips help you manage your networking schedule and avoid burnout.
As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Leave a comment or send me a message.
Let me know what’s working for you and what’s not.