Research suggests that small talk is dwindling in the workplace, with younger generations preferring digital communication over in-person interactions.
Almost half of those surveyed admitted to using digital platforms like WhatsApp, Teams, or email instead of face-to-face communication, even when they’re near the person they’re communicating with. With this reliance on online communication particularly common among Gen Z.
The poll of 2,000 working adults discovered that 74 per cent struggle to engage in casual conversations with colleagues in communal areas like the office kitchen or lift. While 40 per cent of Gen Z feel this way, the figure drops slightly for Millennials and Gen X.
The polls shows 28 per cent of employees avoid the office kitchen to dodge potential small talk, and 13 per cent admit to putting their food in the microwave and leaving to avoid conversations altogether.
According to 40 per cent of younger employees the concept of small talk is like “learning a new language” as the rise of remote and hybrid working means digital communication has always been their go to. In contrast, experienced office workers see it as a loss as they said it was crucial for team bonding and professional growth.
Anna Beheshti from Tilda, which commissioned the study, notes that the shift to hybrid working has reduced opportunities for “micro moments of connection.” As a result, the brand is encouraging employees to revive these ‘water cooler’ moments as part of their ambitions for the new year.
“Not everyone is naturally confident in starting a conversation, but those small, everyday exchanges can build relationships and boost confidence,” Anna explained.
While casual conversations may feel awkward, research highlights their benefits. More than half of respondents believe that light-hearted chats improve communication, with 49 per cent linking them to a happier workforce and better company morale.
From a personal perspective, 38 per cent claim these interactions can boost their mood, leading to feelings of happiness, relaxation, and increased self-confidence.
BBC Radio 1 presenter Melvin Odoom, partnering with Tilda, is also urging workers to embrace small talk. Reflecting on his own experiences, he shared: “Llife’s about stepping out of your comfort zone and grabbing opportunities.
“A simple conversation can turn into a lifelong friendship, but you won’t know unless you take that first step. People might think I find talking easy because of my jokey personality, but I get nervous too-I just hide it well.
“My advice? The other person is probably just as nervous, so remind yourself of that and starting a conversation becomes a lot easier.”
In an effort to promote connection, Tilda is offering customers the chance to win prizes such as cooking masterclasses through their Tilda Ready-to-Heat range making lunchtime the perfect opportunity to share a chat and reconnect in the workplace.