[Gramps]

I wouldn't spend too much time worrying about chat. You don't want to be a total ass, as you run the risk of players ganging up on you in late stages and making "spite calls" against their own interest to try and knock you out (i.e. when you'd really prefer to just steal blinds and not get called).

If you're super friendly-chatty, I've seen situations where another player (who's on a good run and has a big stack) who you've been bantering with may give you a break at some point (e.g. folding a hand he could have called your short stack all-in with)...but most players won't do that.

I think poker should be fun, and if you enjoy joking with other players, joke with other players. If you enjoy talking a little smack, talk a little smack. How you play the game will determine how well you do in the long run, that where one's focus should be directed.