The Importance of Small Talk in a Business Setting: Why Some Find It Difficult and How Remote Working Has Changed the Game

Small talk, often dismissed as trivial or uncomfortable, is a crucial part of building rapport in business settings. While it may seem like filler conversation, small talk helps foster relationships, creates introductions for networking, and eases the transition into more serious discussions. However, for many, making small talk can be a daunting task, especially in today’s evolving work environment, where face-to-face interactions have become less frequent, and virtual meetings have taken centre stage.

The challenge on making small talk

The difficulty in making small talk is more common than you might think. A survey conducted by the charity Samaritans, as part of their “Small Talk Saves Lives” campaign, revealed that nearly half of British adults actively avoid small talk. The reasons behind this are multifaceted, with one in five (22%) of respondents admitting they are worried about saying the wrong thing. This fear of social missteps is something many people can relate to, and it highlights how stressful even simple conversations can feel in certain contexts. For those who find small talk difficult, the pressure can be even greater in professional environments where the stakes are higher, and the desire to make a good impression looms large. People may wonder: What if I say something inappropriate? What if my comment comes across as irrelevant or awkward?

The Changing Nature of Communication in the Workplace

Have remote working options affected the way we communicate? In recent years, particularly post-COVID, the nature of workplace communication has shifted significantly. With the rise of remote work, many business conversations have become more streamlined, focusing strictly on meeting agendas and objectives. This change has led to less time and space for the casual chit-chat that often happens in office hallways or around the coffee machine. Instead, phone calls, emails, and video meetings are typically concise and to the point. There’s no doubt that remote working has impacted how we interact. For some, the absence of informal office settings has reduced opportunities for spontaneous conversations, making small talk feel less natural when it does occur. Others have noted that without the subtle cues of in-person body language, engaging in small talk during video meetings can feel awkward and stilted. Adding to this complexity is the residual social awkwardness many people feel after the pandemic. Social distancing, lockdowns, and the transition to remote work changed how we interact, both personally and professionally. For some, re-engaging in face-to-face conversations can feel uncomfortable or anxiety-inducing, leading to an increased reluctance to initiate small talk. Generational differences also play a role here. Younger generations, who have grown up more accustomed to digital communication, may find small talk in person to be more challenging than their older counterparts, who are used to more traditional forms of networking.

Social Awkwardness

A recent survey conducted by a LinkedIn member highlights this point. When asked about factors affecting their networking and communication skills, 29% of respondents cited the pandemic as the cause “for the impact on networking/social skills”, while 24% said working from home was an attributing factor. Parenthood also influenced 17% of participants. However surprisingly the largest group, 31% actually referred to themselves as “confident as ever” feeling their social skills and ability to make small talk and network as never wavered. Of course we do not know who these individuals were, so we cannot know whether their age or background varies from those who voted the other ways. It is clear though that the pandemic, and the isolation that came with it, may have caused some individuals to feel out of practice with in-person social interactions, adding a new layer of complexity to professional networking.

Overcoming Small Talk Challenges

For those who find small talk difficult, there are ways to ease the discomfort. Preparation can help — knowing a few general, non-controversial topics to discuss (such as recent industry news or even the weather) can make conversations flow more smoothly. Additionally, understanding that small talk doesn’t have to be perfect is important. People appreciate authenticity, and often it’s the simple act of engaging in conversation that counts, rather than the specifics of what’s being said. Moreover, it’s worth remembering that small talk serves a larger purpose beyond the words exchanged. It helps build trust, breaks down barriers, and can even create opportunities for more meaningful connections. In a world where many of us are craving a return to personal interaction, small talk can be the bridge that helps us reconnect.

Conclusion

While small talk may seem inconsequential, it plays a vital role in the business world, fostering connections and helping relationships grow. For many, especially after COVID and with the rise of remote work, engaging in these seemingly simple conversations has become more difficult. Surveys from both Samaritans and LinkedIn suggest that social anxieties around small talk are not uncommon, with a significant number of people fearing they might say the wrong thing. However, despite the challenges, making the effort to engage in small talk can have long-term benefits for both individuals and organisations. It allows for deeper connections, enhances teamwork, and creates a more supportive work culture. In a business world that is increasingly efficient and time-driven, small talk may be more valuable than ever in keeping us connected.