Human connection is a major necessity at work that can’t be ignored and kept for later. A mutual connection with workmates builds a safe and healthy environment and belonging.

One of the ways to encourage this is through small talk- this is a social skill; it fills the void between uncomfortable silence and a productive conversation. It’s informal, polite, and often revolves around unimportant things.

Diandra Umurerwa, a business consultant, says it is vital to have small conversations as it helps people feel ‘human’ at work.

"Employees are not restricted to be human when at work, and surely there is a need for them to feel that they belong and can express themselves freely. I believe small talks are important because they create friendships, trust, and solidarity. And if managed well, they can bring up benefits,” she says.

According to Benjamin Ntaganda, a designer at Mix Venture design, small talk is part of nature and shouldn’t be seen as unimportant in a company.

"We can’t work together and act like strangers. As workmates, we need to interact daily whether on work-related topics or others, because it is all needed. I may want to know how my colleague is feeling today, how their weekend was and all that, in hopes of getting to know them or even making them feel good at work,” he says.

Abier Uwimana says that small talk can also bring up important conversations or build important relationships- it helps people to know you, your capabilities, and your ambitions.

"Simple conversations can even turn into job opportunities, because people get to know you and your ambitions. And if one knows that out there is a job suitable for you, they can connect you. Small talks grow into relationships and some are always positive ones,” he says.

He also adds that for some people, making small talk can be challenging and hard due to being shy or not knowing where to start, but it’s good to feel free and reveal something about you every now and then.

"You can talk about how you love swimming or that you are a movie person. That way, when you share something about you, the other person will feel free to also engage in the conversation and also share about them.”

Other tips to make small talk include; Ask questions that are not closed, questions that only have one direct answer often makes a person feel that they are in interrogation and also they die quickly, you can try asking a question that is not too personal but also that will keep a conversation going.

Find interesting topics to talk about, the ones that will make the person feel involved or fitting, you can easily ask them their hobbies, their opinions on different things, just to let them also feel that they are in a place where they can feel free.