Gossip, Shoptalk, and Small Talk : Page 259

Your comments ought to rotate upon such a number of topics that everyone may contribute something — something he knows about, has attended, or wants to know more of. Since small talk is an art, it does not come as naturally when it is well done as it looks. A good conversationalist, before going to a party, will review in his mind some of the things he has seen, read, or heard in the past week, which might give rise to interested comments and questions. He will also try to be accurate and specific, because even small talk will best further mutual acquaintance if it contributes to everybody's information, as well as to their pleasure.