Skip the small talk: deep conversations feel easier than expected

Deeper conversations with strangers felt less awkward and more connecting than people expected beforehand.

The study

Across a series of experiments, strangers had conversations and reported how they went. The talks felt less awkward and created more connection and happiness than participants had predicted, especially deeper conversations. People also felt more connected to deep conversation partners than to shallow ones. The gap came from expecting others to care less about what they shared than they actually did.

Starting small

Going a little beyond small talk can be easier than it seems. Asking someone what has been on their mind lately, and sharing something real in return, is a gentle place to start.