As the title suggests, my boss at work suggested that I am too much of a reclusive type, and I keep to myself too much which can make people feel isolated from me. As such, one of my 'target improvements' is that I have been asked to engage in more idle chatter with people about things I don't care about and aren't work related to satisfy my colleague's need for social interaction.
For reference, my team is about 14 people large, I am the youngest at 28, the next youngest being 35. I work in a social service position at a local council. I have known my colleagues for 2+ years and they all know that although I'm a grouch, I'm always happy to help and try my best to do what I can for them. I do engage with my colleagues in social discussions I'm interested in, but I just don't find talking about the football, or what was on love island or whatever interesting. I tend to come into work, say hello to people, put my earphone in (leaving one out so people can call to me if they need anything), get on with work and go home.
How can someone genuinely try and mandate that I talk more as an improvement to my work ability? I nearly quit on the spot I was so angry. Why can't I just be the way I am without forcing me to change for everyone else? Imagine someone gay or autistic or disabled being told to be less like the way they are and conform more to help their colleagues feel 'less isolated'.