IMO, you mistook small talk for conversation. There’s a time for small talk and there’s a time for conversation. It’s kind of awkward when we as people get motivated enough to talk to other people, but can’t read the signs when the small talk or the conversation have hit a stopping point.
Another opinion of mine I that you introduced yourself as more senior than them in your trade. Now it’s up to them to want to continue the dialog. Just keep doing your thing your way, besides giving the new people a chance to choose to talk to you. If they do, then find ways to share your wisdom through conversation. If they choose to not talk to you, then trust your coworkers give them the wisdom.
Don’t waste too much mental energy on it because ultimately, if your work is good, it doesn’t matter your attitude towards new people as long as you’re not going out of your way to alienate them