Gen Z is killing office small talk— with 74% of employees struggling to speak to coworkers

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

A poll, of 2,000 employed adults, found 74 percent struggle to make light conversation with co-workers in the kitchen or elevator.

Nearly half of those (48 percent) admit to using WhatsApp, Teams or email because it’s 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 per cent of Gen Z feel this way, compared to 33 per cent of Millennials and 24 per cent of Gen X.

The research also revealed 40 percent of young adults said it’s ‘like learning a new language’, due to being more familiar with remote and flexible working.

It also emerged 27 percent feel sorry for office ‘newbies’ who’ve never had to master the art of workplace chit-chat – with 41 percent of Gen Z, aged up to 28, believing this.

Anna Beheshti, from Tilda, which is looking to encourage two minute ‘micro chats’ with microwavable pot and pouch lunch options, said: “Anyone who’s worked in an office can relate to this.

“With hybrid working now the norm, we don’t get the same daily practice in social interactions as 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’s those small, everyday exchanges – the micro moments of connection – that help build confidence and relationships.

“These moments aren’t just good for workplace culture; they’re beneficial for our wellbeing too.

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

“Sharing a bit of small talk – whether it’s in the lift or the kitchen during your lunch break – can be a great ice breaker.”

It also emerged 28 percent avoid walking into the office kitchen in case they must talk to someone.

While 13 percent of those who do brave it, quickly put their food into the microwave and walk away until it’s done, as they’re anxious about conversing with a co-worker.

Despite small talk struggles, it’s clear that communicating with fellow workers face to face has a positive impact with 38 percent saying it benefits their mood and wellbeing – as well as sparking feelings of relaxation, happiness and confidence after a positive chat.

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

This is because you get to know someone more (59 percent), it helps you grow in confidence (48 percent) – as well as just being a faster way of finding out the answer to something (47 percent).

In 2025, 22 percent of all respondents are prioritizing being more sociable – which especially true of younger employees according to the 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 opportunity to win one of 70 prizes including cooking masterclasses, to start the year off on the right foot.

He said: “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, 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 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.”