AIBU to keep quiet and avoid office small talk?

27 replies

StinkySheepdog · 07/08/2026 13:53

I'm very much an introvert, prefer to keep myself to myself.

At work, I come in, do my job, go home. I'm not one for gossip or small talk. I prefer to stay out of office politics.

I'm starting to feel others in the office are not happy about me being so quiet. I'm always polite, will speak about work related things, ask for help / support, give help / support if asked - just not interested in making small talk.

Would it make others feel uncomfortable to have a quiet person in the office? Should I make more of an effort to become friendly with colleagues?

OP posts:

whatcanthematterbe81 · 07/08/2026 13:57

Not uncomfortable at all. I’m one of those that stresses if someone is quiet that there’s something wrong and they’re sad or they want to be included but can’t find the words. So maybe try and get it in at some point that you like your own company and happy to be quiet at work in case they keep trying to pull you in and make it awkward for everyone

Backedoffhackedoff · 07/08/2026 13:56

I’m not interested in what others do in the office or even notice. Mind you equally I’ve only rarely been in offices where people spend a lot of time visibly gossiping so maybe yours is unusual?

I talk a lot at work, I need to talk to people about work. I do like knowing about their lives though, it makes the working relationship more pleasant and helps with bonding

Unflip

1 2