Small talk seen as a ‘new language’ by younger UK workers

The art of small talk in the workplace is on the decline, with younger generations favouring digital communication over face-to-face interactions, according to recent research.

A study involving 2,000 working adults revealed that 74% find it difficult to engage in casual conversation with colleagues in communal areas such as the office kitchen or lift.

Almost half of those polled confessed to using digital platforms like WhatsApp, Teams, or email instead of face-to-face communication even when they’re in close proximity to the person they’re communicating with.

This dependency on online communication is especially prevalent among Gen Z, with 40% admitting they feel more at ease chatting online than in person. This figure decreases slightly for Millennials (33%) and Gen X (24%).

For many young employees, engaging in small talk feels alien 40% compared it to “learning a new language” due to the rise of remote and hybrid working. On the other hand, seasoned office workers mourn the loss of informal workplace chatter, viewing it as an essential aspect of team bonding and professional growth.

Nearly a third (28%) avoid entering the office kitchen to escape potential small talk. Of those who do, 13% confess to putting their food in the microwave and leaving to dodge conversations altogether.

While small talk may seem uncomfortable, the research emphasises its advantages. Over half believe these light-hearted conversations enhance communication, with 49% suggesting they contribute to a happier workforce and 48% associate them with improved company morale.

More significantly, 38% claim these interactions can help elevate their own moods, triggering feelings of joy, relaxation, and self-confidence.

Anna Beheshti from Tilda, which commissioned the study, has noted that the shift towards hybrid working has reduced opportunities for “micro moments of connection.” For this reason, the brand is urging employees to rediscover “water cooler” moments in 2025.

And things may already be changing. For 2025, 22% of respondents say they’re prioritising being more sociable, with younger employees particularly eager to step out of their comfort zones.

“Not everyone is naturally confident in starting a conversation, but those small, everyday exchanges can build relationships, boost confidence,” Anna elaborated.

BBC Radio 1 presenter Melvin Odoom, partnering with Tilda for their ready-to-heat range, is also encouraging workers to embrace small talk.

Reflecting on his own experiences, he shared: “One of my biggest fears recently, aside from the bugs and snakes, was meeting new people-despite talking for a living. But life’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.