Feeling Burnt Out From Networking?

Burnt out from networking? We’re diving deep into a topic that’s been on the minds of many professionals lately: feeling burnt out from networking. As the world changed post-COVID-19, so did our priorities, both personally and professionally. Let’s explore this transformation and how We&Co got its start amidst the chaos of COVID-19.

Post-COVID: Feeling Burnt Out from Networking?

A World Transformed by Networking Groups

The COVID-19 pandemic brought about unprecedented changes. Businesses had to pivot, professionals had to adapt, and the way we networked took a 180-degree turn. According to BBC, remote work became the new norm, and virtual meetings replaced face-to-face interactions. While some embraced the change, there were many who wanted to return to the original in-person meetings traditional networking provided.

The Rise of Virtual Networking Groups

With the onset of the pandemic, networking groups shifted online. Zoom calls, webinars, and virtual conferences became the go-to. While this ensured continuity, it also brought about a new set of challenges. The sheer volume of these events led many to feel overwhelmed and burnt out from networking.

The Struggle for Work-Life Balance

Working from home blurred the lines between professional and personal lives. As reported by The Guardian, many found it challenging to switch off from work, leading to increased stress and burnout. That said, many networking groups or chapters collapsed due to this. While people understood the benefits of networking, many felt they didn’t have the bandwidth to continue on in their own networking group.

10 Signs You’re Burnt Out from Networking Groups

Recognizing the Symptoms of Networking Fatigue

Burnout isn’t just about feeling tired. It’s a deeper, more pervasive exhaustion. Here are ten signs that you might be feeling burnt out from networking:

1. Constant Fatigue

You’re always tired, no matter how much sleep you get. This is especially true if you’re attending back-to-back networking events.

2. Loss of Motivation

Tasks that once excited you now feel like a chore. Networking, which used to be a source of opportunities, now feels draining.

3. Increased Irritability

You’re more impatient and easily frustrated, especially during networking events.

4. Difficulty Concentrating

Tasks that once took an hour now take three. Networking conversations seem to blur together.

5. Declining Performance

Your work quality drops, and mistakes become frequent. You’re too exhausted from networking to focus.

6. Feeling Detached

You feel disconnected from your work and colleagues. Networking feels more like a task than an opportunity.

7. Neglecting Self-Care

You skip meals, workouts, or personal time. Networking events eat into your personal time.

8. Sleep Disturbances

You either oversleep or suffer from insomnia, dreading the next networking event.

9. Pessimistic Outlook

You feel hopeless about your professional future, wondering if all the networking is worth it.

10. Health Issues

You experience headaches, stomach problems, or other health concerns due to the stress of constant networking.

The Birth of We&Co After the Quarantine

A Solution to Networking Overwhelm

As the world grappled with these challenges, We&Co was born out of the need to address the evolving priorities of professionals post-COVID. After writing out a list of the pros and cons of traditional networking groups, We&Co launched in July 2020 as a solution for professionals striving for that work-life balance.

Prioritizing Genuine Connections

We&Co focuses on fostering genuine, meaningful connections, moving away from the superficial interactions that often leave professionals feeling burnt out from networking. Additionally, We&Co’s motto is “helping professionals save time while making more money.”

Flexibility and Balance

Understanding the need for a work-life balance, We&Co promotes flexible networking opportunities, ensuring professionals don’t feel overwhelmed. Many of their monthly events are open to both members and non-members. For We&Co members, whatever networking chapter or “huddle” they are in meets twice a month for exactly an hour. Additionally, instead of giving members “networking homework” as many networking groups do, members have opportunities during the Huddle meetings to complete this homework so they don’t have another item to add to their to-do list.

How We&Co Addresses Burnout from Networking Groups

Tailored Networking Experiences for the Modern Professional

We&Co offers tailored networking experiences, ensuring that professionals connect with like-minded individuals, making networking more enjoyable and less draining. Instead of having a chapter with 50+ members all representing one industry, We&Co launches smaller groups of 8-12 members who all have the same target audience, but with little-to-no overlap in industries. This ensures that each group is a collection of referral partners. Every member of the group has to be able and willing to refer to other members in that group.

Quality Over Quantity

Instead of bombarding professionals with weekly meetings, We&Co emphasizes quality interactions, reducing the risk of burnout. Each Huddle meets twice a month for an hour in a high-strategy and hyper-focused meeting.

The Future of Networking in a Burnt Out World

Embracing Change in Networking Groups

The business world is ever-evolving, and so is networking. As we move forward, it’s crucial to recognize the signs of burnout and adapt accordingly. This is where technology can be of great use. With a fully customized and automated platform, We&Co provides its members the resources necessary to run successful meetings that benefit all members.

Continuous Learning

Staying updated with the latest trends and understanding the changing dynamics of networking groups will ensure professionals remain relevant and engaged. Networking groups must constantly educate or edutain members to ensure profitability.

Emphasizing Self-Care

As we’ve learned from Harvard Business Review, prioritizing self-care is not just good for the individual but also for businesses.

In conclusion, while the post-COVID world brought about challenges, it also paved the way for innovations like We&Co. By recognizing the signs of burnout and prioritizing genuine connections, professionals can navigate the world of networking with ease and joy. Stay connected, stay refreshed!