Some people don't like to make small talk . Others — especially younger Americans — say they simply don't know how to do it.

Why it matters: A communication-skills app is betting that a baptism by fire in small talk can help rebuild social confidence — and it's hiring people to approach strangers to put that theory to the test.

Driving the news: RiseGuide is hiring Chief Small Talk Officers — recently rebranded from Head of Hanging Out to stress the seriousness of the assignment.

The monthlong gig pays each of up to three hires $2,000, plus a budget for outings to parks, bookstores and fitness classes, where they'll strike up conversations with strangers.

Officers will rate their small talk skills before and after the assignment, with regular check-ins to assess their interactions.…