Word To Ponder: Natter
To natter is to talk idly, or chatter.
Small talk seems to have those who love it and who despise it. There are people who love to talk with strangers about the weather and other fluff topics. There are also some who prefer to save all their socializing time for people they are close to so they may have an interesting and meaningful conversation. The middle ground is mostly for those who can natter, depending on the day or their mood. It can be as simple as saying someone is introverted or extroverted, depending on the atmosphere they are presently in.
My relationship with nattering is very extensive. Being in retail for decades, I understand small talk is a must. What I’ve experienced as a customer is people who don’t belong in retail due to social anxiety or introversion, or those that fake their way through the day. Putting on an act is fine enough, but it must carry some authenticity otherwise it ruins the experience for that customer.
There are individuals perfect for retail and selflessly serving others, though I worry if they find the time to care for themselves. That kind of selflessness can trickle into real life, or they are already selfless and found a job where they can be the same. Either way, balancing self-care with selflessness is key and different for everyone.
When working with people, you are bound to see some of the ones you serve when you’re in public. Then, there is a choice you need to make. Will you potentially be the same hollow “work” version of yourself, or will you decide to just be yourself? At that moment, whatever image you put out there is a representation of the company you work for. None of us may totally agree with it, but it’s just the way it is.
Though nattering seems mostly present in the workplace, its presence is also felt in our personal lives, specifically our families. I’d wager there is a large percentage of people who say family is an obligation, which breaks my heart. If a person is only engaging in small talk with their family, is there really a point spending time with them? The idea of being around people you don’t want to be is such a waste of life. Sharing blood shouldn’t equate to anything more, unless a true bond and affection for a relative is there.
Pay attention when you find yourself nattering, and not able to open up to someone. It is because they’re a stranger and you can’t trust them? If you’re at work, you’re not paid to represent yourself, so nattering can make a customer feel welcome. Be mindful of how you’re coming across, even if this means you’re hearing things you vehemently disagree with. This also goes for your co-workers. Just be the best teammate you can be in order to get the job done. Then, you can go about your life with the people you choose to be with, who can see through whatever nattering you had to do that day.