At overwhelming events, pick two or three people and move the conversation somewhere calmer later, with one easy line.
The idea
Meaningful conversation in a crowded room between passed appetizers isn't really possible, especially if events drain you. The bridge strategy accepts that: at an overwhelming event, identify two or three people you'd like to meet for coffee later, and move the conversation there. The event becomes the introduction, and the real conversation happens later, somewhere quieter.
How to do it
At the event, when a conversation is worth continuing, propose the coffee right there (see Script).
Keep it to two or three people.
After the event, treat the attendee list as your outreach list. Having seen someone there is the perfect excuse to follow up.
Example
I've always had an urge to connect with everyone at an event, and trying to was a disaster. Now I have zero problem giving someone I know a genuine hug, saying "so good to see you, let's catch up properly soon", and moving on.
Script
At the event: "This is pretty chaotic! Want to continue this conversation over coffee tomorrow?" After: "Great seeing you at the conference last week. Would love to actually catch up properly."
The 48 Hours After: Block half a day within 48 hours of getting home from a conference, list everyone you met with notes and next steps, and send the follow-ups.