Small talk seems “small”， because it is generally thought to be informal and not serious. However, if you say the wrong thing on a certain occasion, you'll make both sides awkward, for which you'll have to make an apology. As a consequence, it is necessary to be aware of some basic social rules and do a little advance planning.
For example, if a friend who is not well off pays a visit to you, you can be hospitable to him, but never show off your riches during the conversation. Anyhow, you should be cautious about other people's feelings, even if he is an acquaintance.
In addition, you should learn to be a good listener. While doing small talk, you shouldn't yawn, sigh, or look away from the person who is talking to you, trying to use positive body language.
闲谈似乎是小事，因为人们一般认为闲谈不正式、不严肃。但是，如果在某个场合你说了错话，你会使双方很尴尬，你将不得不为此道歉。因此，有必要知道一些基本的社交规则，提前做点计划。
例如，如果一个不是很富有的朋友拜访你，你可以对他很热情，但在对话中千万不要炫耀你的财富。不管怎样，你应该注意别人的感受，即使他是个熟人。
另外，你应该学会成为一名好的倾听者。在聊天时，你不应该打呵欠、叹气或者是不看和你说话的人，尽量使用积极的身体语言。
