tinyE: It didn't put me off dating. Girls finding me repulsive seemed to do that. :P
It doesn't matter, just be yourself.
Talk to and joke with everyone. If they want you to be gone, they'll let you know. Don't be obnoxious, just bs and joke a bit.
You came with nothing, might leave with nothing, but at least you'll have a good time, and so will they. It isn't about getting something, it's about having fun and passing the evening. Getting "lucky" isn't necessarily a romp in the hay, sometimes it's just making friends. The romp in the hay might be fine, but will be all the better when there is a bit of knowledge on each end that allows for some closeness too.
Everyone over complicates things. It is about having fun, letting/helping others feel special, and kicking it as an honest dude.
Can't guarantee anything, even for myself, but give it a shot dude. If someone gets obnoxious, just joke, exit, and play in a few minutes elsewhere. Have found myself smiling, and saying "damn, you're a mean assed woman" a time or two, but it doesn't fit everywhere. Don't threaten, annoy, or bore and you'll be ok; every conversation doesn't have to be like it is with the love of your life.