As people mature, they often realize how vital small talk can be in casual settings, networking or developing budding friendships.

     However, there comes a point where friendships or professional relationships have the potential to become more and small talk is no longer adequate. Instead, meaningless chit-chat should be followed by substantial conversations. 

     According to Harvard Business Review, small talk in a work environment is not ideal for professional growth. Rather, feedback, whether positive or negative, is the right way to garner progress. 

     “What [employees] want from their boss is somebody who can help them grow professionally. People grow most when they make mistakes. [You’ll] build better relationships by sharing your feedback than by having idle conversation,” tech company CEO Kim Scott claims.

     In a more personal regard, inconsequential conversations in a relationship do more harm than good. Once the familiarity of a relationship escalates, casual discussions can overtake genuine heart-to-hearts.

     “Although it is always good advice to be wary of sharing too much too soon, relationships build trust and respect through emphasizing substance over the superficial,” career trial attorney and behavioral analyst Wendy L. Patrick says.

     Small talk can make way for a new connection. Nevertheless, substantive conversations are the true way to get to someone’s heart.