I will go out on a limb and say that spending 2 hours networking is more draining than 8 hours with your best friends.
My hypothesis to support this claim is…
Socialising is draining when you are acting. When you feel you have to put on a face or watch what you say and generally keep your guard up.
Socialising is energising when you’re relaxed. When you’re not constantly monitoring your dialogue or reading reactions. You’re simply having fun. You know that those around you trust you and aren’t going to ‘leave you’ because of a risque comment or unpopular opinion.
Thomas Duggan 