In a world dominated by screens and AI chatbots, in-person networking is fast becoming a lost art among young professionals. According to new research from the professional top talent network Nova, nearly two-thirds (60%) of Gen Z admit to actively avoiding in-person networking events, while almost a third (29%) say social anxiety makes real-life small talk a major challenge.
Awkward Silences and Small Talk: Gen Z’s Biggest Networking Fears
The study reveals that one in four (26%) young professionals dread awkward silences above all else, and one in five (19%) would skip small talk entirely if they could — even though it’s one of the simplest ways to build rapport and open doors to new opportunities.
That hesitation is taking a toll beyond the event floor. Almost 40% of Gen Z say they have only one or two people they can turn to for career advice, and 15% admit they have no professional network at all. It’s a worrying trend for a generation entering the workforce without the connections that often help careers thrive.
AI: The New Networking Crutch?
The rise of AI-powered tools might be part of the problem. The report found that two in five (40%) young professionals now rely on AI when they don’t know what to say, and over a quarter (28%) feel “lost” if they can’t check their responses with an AI tool first.
For many, this reliance has created a “networking deficit” — making digital communication easier, but in-person interaction harder. While AI may polish our messages, it also risks eroding real-world confidence.
“Networking has always been one of the most powerful tools for career growth,” says Andrea Marino, Co-Founder and CEO at Nova. “This research doesn’t show a lack of talent, but a loss of confidence. Gen Z professionals are capable and driven — they just need the right spaces to build meaningful, real-world relationships.”
“Talk More”: Experts Urge Young Professionals to Step Away from the Screen
Susie Ashfield, the UK’s leading speech coach and author of Just F**king Say It, agrees that communication skills are built — not born.
“The more time you spend behind a screen, the harder it becomes to speak with clarity and conviction,” says Ashfield. “My advice? Talk more. Pick up the phone, say yes to the meeting, start the conversation. The people who can communicate confidently in real life will always stand out.”
Rebuilding Real-World Connections with Nova
That’s exactly what Nova aims to change. The professional network connects top talent from around the world, helping young professionals rebuild meaningful connections offline.
Their annual Nova 111 List celebrates 111 of the UK’s brightest young professionals across business, culture, and creativity — shining a spotlight on the next generation of changemakers who are driving innovation and collaboration beyond the screen.
For those ready to reconnect, nominations for the Nova 111 List UK are now open.
Learn more and apply or nominate someone at novatalent.com/111/uk.
