Gen Z is killing small talk in the office – with 74% of employees struggling to talk to colleagues

The art of small talk in the office is dying out because younger workers feel more comfortable communicating online, according to research.

A poll of 2,000 working adults found that 74 percent struggle to hold a light conversation with colleagues in the kitchen or elevator.

Almost half of them (48 percent) admit to using WhatsApp, Teams or email because it is more convenient – ​​even if they are sitting near the recipient.

Overall, 27 percent say they are more comfortable communicating online than in person.

But this is more pronounced among younger workers, as 40 percent of Gen Z feel this way, compared to 33 percent of Millennials and 24 percent of Gen X.

The survey also revealed that 40 percent of young adults said it is ‘like learning a new language’ because they are more familiar with telecommuting and flexible working.

It also found that 27 percent felt sorry for office “newbies” who have never had to master the art of chatting in the workplace – with 41 percent of Gen Z, aged up to 28, believing this.

Anna Beheshti, from Tilda, which seeks to encourage two-minute ‘micro-chats’ with the option of a microwave pot and a lunch bag, said: “Anyone who has worked in an office can relate to this.

“With hybrid work now the norm, we don’t get the same daily practice in social interactions that we used to when most of us were in the office full time.

“For some, the art of conversation comes naturally, but for many it is the small everyday exchanges – micro-moments of connection – that help build trust and relationships.

“These moments are not only good for workplace culture; they are also beneficial to our well-being.

“That’s why we want to encourage everyone to rediscover those office ‘water cooler’ moments and start reconnecting in 2025.

“Sharing a little small talk—whether it’s in the elevator or the kitchen during your lunch break—can be a great icebreaker.”

It also turned out that 28 percent avoid going into the office kitchen if they had to talk to someone.

While 13 percent of those who defy it quickly pop their food in the microwave and walk away until it’s done because they’re anxious about talking to a colleague.

Despite small talk battles, it’s clear that communicating with colleagues face-to-face has a positive impact, with 38 percent saying it benefits their mood and well-being – as well as instilling feelings of relaxation, happiness and confidence after a positive chat.

So it’s no wonder that 51 percent believe small talk in the office improves communication, leads to a happier workforce (49 percent) and better company morale (48 percent).

It’s because you get to know someone more (59 percent), it helps you grow in confidence (48 percent)—as well as it’s just a faster way to find out the answer to something (47 percent).

In 2025, 22 percent of all respondents prioritize being more sociable – which is especially true for younger employees, according to OnePoll.com data.

BBC Radio 1 presenter Melvin Odoom has teamed up with Tilda (Tildawin.com) to offer those who buy their ready-to-head range the chance to win one of 70 prizes, including cooking masterclasses, to boot the year on the right foot.

He said: “One of my biggest fears recently, apart from the bugs and snakes, was meeting new people – despite talking for a living.

“But life is about stepping out of your comfort zone and seizing opportunities, because you never know where they might lead.

“A simple conversation can turn into a lifelong friendship, but you won’t know unless you take the first step.

“People might think I find it easy to talk because of my jokey personality, but I also get nervous – I just hide it well.

“My advice? The other person is probably just as nervous, so remind yourself of that and it will be much easier to start a conversation.”