Returning To The Office: Reconnecting With Small Talk

While more and more employees are transitioning WFH to hybrid or back-to-office full time, research reveals after working virtually for over two years that many workers feel they’re quite rusty, or have lost capacity (and interest) for face-to-face Small Talk. And for others, Small Talk just has never come easy; the thought of initiating conversation makes them cringe, and want to avoid it at all costs. For those not comfortable with Small Talk in the first place, having WFH without much external socialization may have exacerbated their angst.

Remember though, human beings in general enjoy each other’s company along with good conversation. In general we crave socializing, and everyone has their own level of comfort. As you’re returning to the office, and getting reacquainted with your peers and routines, think about Small Talk as an opportunity or an opening for (re)connection, discovery and community.

If it’s not something that comes naturally to you, practice and have a few openers/conversation starters for those elevator, atrium, workspace and lunchroom scenarios. Such as: