More than likely you'd like to find new ideas, new opportunities and great resources through your networking efforts. Why else invest the time and money in building better relationships if you're not going to see some type of improvement in your life and those around you, right?

If that's the case, and I certainly hope it is, it's important to pay attention to the type of conversation you're having. Are they productive? Are they leading you to the new ideas and opportunities you're looking for? This has a lot to do with what you talk about when you're out networking, or heck having a conversation with just about anyone for that matter.

I chose a more upbeat title, but my original concept title for this post was: Leave Your Baggage at Home. Lately I've been party to way too many negative conversations. Sure the economy is tough, people have been laid off and things were once a whole lot easier for many people. Everybody has challenges in their life, but for the most part they shouldn't be part of the conversation. Complaining about a bad situation isn't going to make it any better. Maybe it'll make you feel a little better, but that's not a very big improvement. Wouldn't you rather find a solution instead of feeling just a tiny bit better?

You may need an outlet to vent about your frustrations or troubles. Go find that and limit it to very few people. The rest of your conversations need to be far more positive and focused on finding solutions. Think about the two styles of conversation if you're on the other end of them. If you're talking with someone who is complaining and seems depressed how likely are you to want to spend a lot of time with them and/or try to help them? On the other hand if you're talking with someone who has a great attitude and is actively looking for constructive feedback or suggestions don't you want to hang around with that person and help them find those answers?

Anytime you're having a conversation bring a positive outlook. Think ahead and prepare to ask questions that might help you find what you need. Be prepared to offer to help the people you meet. You may need to ask them so questions to better understand how you can help them. Then don't spend a lot of time with others who are negative. You don't want to get sucked into their pity party, it's just a downward spiral. Instead focus on positive people who are able and willing to help. Then be sure to provide them with a way that they can help. You'll soon find that you're having much more productive conversations.

Happy Networking!

-Scott Ingram
NetworkInAustin.com