How to Network Effectively Even When You’re Tired

We’ve all been there: you wake up on a Monday after a long weekend, feeling groggy and tired, but still have to show up for that important networking event. It’s tough. But don’t worry, you can still have a productive and engaging networking experience, even when you’re not feeling your best.

With LinkedIn announcing that "relationship building" is a top skill for 2025, I ask you: how do you know what you don't know, and what if you're not feeling up to building today?

Why doesn’t anyone talk about the struggle of Monday networking after a tiring weekend?

Let’s change that!

Here are my top business networking tips for when you’re feeling stuck, exhausted, or just not in the mood.

Tip 1: Take a Notepad and Pen

This has been a life-saver for me. When I’m feeling out of it, I rely on good old pen and paper. During networking sessions, I jot down key questions I want to ask people and notes from the conversations I have. It keeps me engaged and helps me remember important details, making follow-ups so much easier.

Tip 2: Use the 3-2-1 Rule

This rule is simple, but so effective:

1. Speak to three people during the event.
2. Connect with at least two people afterwards.
3. Follow up with one person to take the conversation further.

I came up with this rule a few years ago and wrote about it in my book Unprepared to Entrepreneur. I promise it works! It helps ensure that I’m making meaningful connections, even when I’m feeling a little out of it.

Tip 3: Be Honest and Listen

If someone asks you a question and you don’t know the answer, don’t stress. Just say something like:

• “That’s a great question, I don’t have the answer right now, but let me get back to you.”
• “I love that insight, let me follow up with you over email or on LinkedIn.”

It’s okay to admit you don’t have all the answers; the key is to keep the conversation going and follow through later. The act of listening is just as important as speaking.

Takeaway

Networking doesn’t have to be exhausting or overwhelming, especially when you’re not at your best.

Sometimes it’s about focusing on small wins, like connecting with three people and listening actively. These simple actions will make sure that your networking efforts are effective, even when you’re tired or stuck.

Key Piece of Advice

Remember, it's not about attending every networking event with an enormous amount of energy or making dozens of connections. Quality over quantity matters.

Focus on building genuine relationships with a few key people, and take the time to listen and follow up; that’s where the real value lies.

So What?

We often think networking requires us to be at our best, but in reality, it’s about showing up, being consistent, and adding value where you can. Even on those groggy Monday mornings, your efforts will pay off. Stay intentional, and your business relationships will grow, no matter how tired you feel.

Sonya Barlow is an award-winning entrepreneur, presenter and author with over 100K followers. She hosts her self-titled YouTube show "The Sonya Barlow Show", authored the business book "Unprepared to Entrepreneur" and runs a business inclusion consultancy and networking app the "LMF Network". You can work with Sonya for campaigns, content and conversation. Connect via email ?? - [email protected].