“I nearly didn’t come today – but I’m so glad I did!” I’ve heard this more than a few times at our meetings, especially at this time of year when the days are dark, everyone seems to be coming down with something, and spring time seems a long way away off!
When your energy levels are on the floor for any reason, mustering the motivation to get dressed, get in the car and make small talk at networking can feel exhausting, before you’ve even thought about your 60 second pitch. But I’ve heard so many times how making that effort and coming out was the best decision they made that day, even though they felt the strong pull of the sofa! So here are my tips for networking and thriving with it even when your energy is low, and feeling so glad that you did at the end of it.
Showing up matters
Many of us feel tempted to show up only when we’re feeling 100% up for it. The reality is, there can be so many reasons why you’re not feeling it on a particular day - you’re tired, it’s cold, business is busy, or you’d rather stay at home in your comfy clothes.
Showing up, however you’re feeling, is so important because it’s that consistency that builds relationships. People get to know you by seeing you regularly, not just when you’re at your best. You don’t have to be “on form” every time – just being there keeps you visible, reminds them about what you do, and shows others that you value your networking commitment.
Plus – and I’ve found this is so often the case myself - the positive energy and support in a meeting can be just what you need to get your own motivation back up, and make you feel 10 times better than you did that morning!
Tips for networking on low energy days
When your energy is low, the trick is to accept it: that’s how you’re feeling today, so work with it rather than fighting it. Try these…
Lower the pressure on yourself. You don’t need to speak to everyone in the room or come away with five new contacts. Set a realistic goal, maybe one good conversation or one follow-up message afterwards. Anything you manage beyond that is a bonus.
Think about your arrival. Would you prefer to walk into a packed room and choose who to speak to, or would you rather get there earlier for a less overwhelming crowd and have a couple of quieter conversations with less pressure? Choose whichever one feels most manageable to you on the day.
Focus on listening over speaking. When you’re low on energy, listening is your secret weapon. Ask open questions and let the other person talk. You’ll still come across as engaged without having to do all the talking yourself.
Take breaks when you need them. Step outside for fresh air, visit the loo, or find a quiet corner for a few minutes. Networking doesn’t have to mean constant interaction, and some short breaks can help you reset.
Dress comfortably. This sounds small, but being physically uncomfortable drains energy fast. Wear something you feel confident comfortable in – it helps more than you think!
Low energy doesn’t mean you should hide away until you feel better. Some of the most valuable connections are made on days when you nearly didn’t go, as I can confirm!
You don’t have to be loud, bubbly, or full of energy to network well. You just have to get there, be yourself, and do what you can with what you’ve got that day. That’s more than enough, and I can guarantee there will be something that makes you so glad you did. In so many cases, the lift you’ll get just from being among supportive, like-minded business peers will give you that much-needed boost. That’s one of the things I love most about our meetings!
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