Guilds are basically for people that do not want to play the game alone. Your guild mateys are your 'playmates' in the game. Need help? Need ships? You can always count on your guild mateys to come running when in need.
There are guillds for all the different playing styles. Some guilds are huge, some are small, and some are inbetween

In choosing a guild, probably want to look for a guild that have people playing during the same times you play. If you like to sail, look for a guild that does a lot of sailing. Just kinda need to find the guild that matches you.
Some guilds are very social and others are more serious. Being in a guild doesn't mean you have to chat. Those that are chatty will chat, and those that are not will be quiet. Might see a little lol from them every now and then
Some people prefer to start their own guild so they can pick and chose the people they would like in the guild. Being a guild master however, comes with it's own set of problems, just as being a manager at work.
Sometimes being in a guild makes grinding much more enjoyable lol. As you're sitting there pressing control, you can either chat or read the silly chat that's going on.
Over all, being in a good guild, that matches your own style, in my opinion, makes the game more enjoyable