“An inability to chit-chat means an inability to connect – the detriments of no small talk are really the detriments of isolation”

When I joined Paper Giant last month, I felt lucky to be able to physically go into the studio and meet people in real life. This article by Hannah Seo about the importance of small talk explains why it was so enjoyable.

Seo observes that, pre-pandemic, small talk received a bad rap. However, now that the pandemic has all but eliminated casual conversation, its absence is having a negative psychological impact on many of us.

From my recent onboarding experience, I can attest to the importance of small talk – not only for social and psychological health, but also for getting to know someone. Seemingly insignificant interactions are the building blocks of deeper relationships: Where are the tea bags? Where is the best place to go for lunch? Where can I plug in my phone charger?

By the time this is published, we should be out of lockdown and back around the proverbial water cooler. I’m looking forward to growing relationships and nurturing my psychological health through lots of mindless chit-chat.