Contrary to the perception that small talk is inconsequential, researchers have found that chit-chat actually has many profound benefits. “As we broke down daily interaction, we realized our most meaningful interactions are not when we’re talking about actual work. It’s when we’re greeting administrative staff, or the friendly gabbing before a meeting,” said Jessica R. Methot of Rutgers University and University of Exeter.  

To measure the impact of small talk on employee well-being, the researchers surveyed 151 full-time employees working at traditional 9 to 5 jobs outside the home. After controlling for participants’ baseline engagement for small talk, the researchers queried about levels of small talk throughout the day, and asked respondents to rate their emotions, work productivity, and overall engagement.  

“It didn’t matter if you were an introvert whose average amount of small talk was lower than what it is for an extrovert, small talk enhanced employees’ daily positive social emotions and contributed to employees feeling connected,” Methot said. Methot was quick to explain what small talk is not. It is not long-winded ranting about an ineffective supervisor. It is not a sensitive discussion about someone’s personal life. “It is surface level. It is ‘Weather looks great this weekend, any plans?’ Surface level is what gives it its benefits.”  

Because small talk builds trust and connections, it also can lead to creative ideas and foster inclusiveness. “Culturally, there are differences in the content and cadence of small talk, which can create a barrier for new employees to engage with colleagues. In this age of greater awareness about diversity and inclusion, small talk can be an asset to a company. It can be a road to more inclusion by helping socialize and embed employees into the organizational culture.” Methot said.  

(Source: https://journals.aom.org/) 

Câu 39. Which could be the best title of the passage? 

A. Office chit-chat. B. Sober socialising. C. Workplace guide. D. Gossip-mongers. 

Câu 40. The word “inconsequential” in paragraph 1 mostly means _______. 

A. infinitesimal B. intangible C. insignificant D. irrelevant 

Câu 41. Which benefit of small talk in the workplace is NOT mentioned in the passage? 

A. Small talk boosts employees’ ability to multitask. 

B. Small talk contributes to employees’ positive emotions. 

C. Small talk inspires new thoughts and ideas. 

D. Small talk fosters good workplace citizenship. 

Câu 42. Which of the following sentences is NOT an example of small talk? 

A. “Can you believe all of this rain we've been having?” 

B. “It looks like Steve is getting the promotion I wanted.” 

C. “Did you hear about that fire on Fourth Street?” 

D. “You look like you could really use a cup of coffee.” 

Câu 43. The word “it” in paragraph 4 refers to _____. 

A. trust B. connection C. talk D. idea