Survey Results Show Americans Prefer Silence to Small Talk

A survey of over 1,000 Americans revealed that they would rather sit in silence than force out awkward small talk. The Preply team examined a few facets of idle chit chat, especially with strangers, and found that Americans have some interesting and perhaps unexpected preferences. They delved into who Americans prefer chatting with, the topics they loathe and love, and differences in how generations feel about small talk. Whether you’re strong and silent or a social butterfly, the results are sure to interest you!

The most important aspect of conversation just might be the topic. The survey asked Americans what subjects they turn to when they have to make small talk. The most popular answers are weather, plans, and work. Respondents felt that these topics are inoffensive and relatable to anyone they might strike up a conversation with. Americans dread having to speak about family, sports, or politics. These are either too personal, too niche, or too controversial.

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As for the lines, what do Americans hate the most? These are the ones to avoid:

• Are you a (local sports team) fan?
• What do you do for work?
• Are you married?

While work might seem like an easy entry point for a conversation, many Americans find the topic stale or feel embarrassed to talk about what they do for work.

In general, Americans would prefer to avoid small talk altogether and describe it as an awkward experience. Seven in ten survey respondents preferred sitting in silence to chatting. Small talk may be lost to time, as the survey found that 2 in 3 Americans take out their phones to avoid it. Gen Z is the most likely to use this tactic. A whopping 89% of them admitted to using this tactic. Only 30% of Baby Boomers use the see strategy.

If small talk is such a dreaded activity, why do so many Americans start up a chat? It may be because 91% of Americans think small talk will turn into a deeper conversation. Many people believe that first impressions are important, and small talk is often our first interaction with others. Statistics show that older people are more interested in using small talk to learn more about others than younger people. 23% of Baby Boomers report making small talk to get to know others, while only 7% of Gen Zers do the same.

Despite a distaste for small talk, half of Americans say they do it anyway just to be polite. 44% of Gen Z said they used small talk to avoid awkward feelings, while only 21% of Baby Boomers felt the same.

Naturally, Americans vastly prefer making small talk with friends, family, and coworkers. They would prefer skipping it with strangers, restaurant workers, and retail employees. A majority of Americans think their parents are the chattiest people they know, with 37% of people saying mothers make the most small talk. Americans have a reputation for friendliness, but these survey results indicate it may be less genuine and more a matter of politeness.