There’s a fascinating distinction between people who sit quietly in the backseat during an Uber ride and those who strike up a conversation with their driver.

It’s all about personality traits.

Some of us seek that human connection, even during a short car ride, while others prefer to keep to themselves.

Those who enjoy chit-chatting with their Uber drivers often share certain characteristics, according to psychology.

They’re not just talkative; there’s more to them than that.

Let’s delve into the seven traits that make these people tick.

And who knows? You might discover you’re one of them, or at least pick up a trait or two to make your next Uber ride more interesting:

1) They’re extroverts

Have you ever noticed how some people are just naturally more outgoing and expressive than others?

Welcome to the world of extroversion.

Extroversion is one of the five major personality traits identified by psychologists.

Extroverts are energized by social interactions and tend to be more outgoing and expressive.

In the context of an Uber ride, these are the folks who will happily strike up a conversation with their driver.

They thrive on that connection, however brief it might be.

This isn’t to say introverts never engage in small talk, but they’re generally less likely to initiate it.

2) They’re high in emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence, or EQ, is another key trait that comes into play during those Uber ride conversations.

People with high EQs are more tuned into their own emotions and those of others.

They’re great listeners and can quickly pick up on the mood of their Uber driver.

I remember one particular Uber ride where I could tell my driver was having a rough night.

Rather than letting him sit in silence, I decided to engage him in conversation about his favorite soccer team.

His face lit up, and for the rest of the ride we had a great chat about the recent games.

If you’re someone who not only enjoys small talk but uses it as a tool to uplift and connect with your Uber driver, you might just have a high EQ.

3) They’re naturally empathetic

Ever felt a pang of sadness when someone else shares a heartbreaking story, or found yourself genuinely happy for a friend’s success?

That’s empathy in action—it’s the ability to understand and share the feelings of others.

It’s a trait that often shines through in those who enjoy making small talk with Uber drivers.

Have you ever found yourself asking your driver how their day has been, or showing genuine concern when they share a tough situation? That’s empathy at work.

Famed psychologist Carl Rogers once said, “When someone really hears you without passing judgment on you, without trying to take responsibility for you, without trying to mold you, it feels damn good!”

Empathy isn’t just about feeling what others feel; it’s about acknowledging their experiences and emotions.

It can turn a casual Uber ride into a meaningful connection.

4) They have a growth mindset

People who enjoy engaging their Uber drivers in conversation often exhibit what psychologists call a “growth mindset.”

Coined by psychologist Carol Dweck, a growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work.

It’s a love for learning and a resilience for great effort.

People with a growth mindset were more likely to engage in social interaction, even in uncomfortable situations.

They saw these interactions as opportunities to learn and grow.

When you strike up a conversation with your Uber driver about their culture or ask them for book recommendations, you’re not just being sociable; you’re demonstrating a growth mindset.

You’re open to gaining new insights from every interaction, no matter how small.

5) They value human connection

We all crave connection in one form or another but, for some, it’s more than a desire—it’s a core value.

If you’re someone who doesn’t let an opportunity to connect with another human pass by, even if it’s during an Uber ride, you likely place a high value on human connection.

I recall an Uber ride where my driver and I ended up discussing our shared love for dogs: It was a simple conversation, but it left me feeling more connected and happier.

As renowned psychologist Abraham Maslow once said, “We are not in a position in which we have nothing to work with. We already have capacities, talents, direction, missions, callings.”

Small talk with your Uber driver might seem trivial, but it’s a testament to the wonderful human ability to connect and converse.

6) They can handle silence

Now, this might seem contradictory.

How can someone who enjoys making small talk also be comfortable with silence?

Well, the answer lies in the understanding that communication isn’t all about talking.

Those who can sit comfortably in silence with another person show a level of self-assuredness and emotional intelligence.

They know when to talk, when to listen, and when silence is perfectly okay.

If you’re someone who can appreciate the comfortable silence during an Uber ride just as much as engaging in small talk, you’re showing a deep understanding of communication’s ebbs and flows.

7) They’re curious

Finally, let’s talk about curiosity.

People who enjoy small talk with Uber drivers often have an innate curiosity about the world and the people in it.

They see every interaction as an opportunity to learn something new.

As psychologist Carl Jung put it, “The most terrifying thing is to accept oneself completely.”

Part of that acceptance comes from understanding our place in the bigger world, fueled by our curiosity about others.

Wrapping it up

When it comes down to it, the art of small talk isn’t just about being outgoing or talkative.

It’s a symphony of various traits—extroversion, emotional intelligence, empathy, a growth mindset, valuing human connection, the ability to handle silence, and curiosity.

They enable us to build bridges, learn from others, and even understand ourselves better.

The next time you hop into an Uber, remember: every small talk opportunity is a chance to connect, grow, and shine.

Whether you’re an extrovert or an introvert, a chatterbox or a listener, there’s always something to gain from that short ride!