Jokes are a good way of managing tension and encouraging rapport with your audience--if they're laughing with you, they're having a good time, and if they're laughing because of something you've said on purpose, you've got a bit of control. It's a good way of staying at-ease in front of dozens of people.
EDIT:
Luckily pitching and presenting IRL is much easier (and less harsh) than cracking wise here on srs bsns HN. If you can get away with jokes and upvotes here, you'll be fine at any venue in person. :)
Jokes are a good way of managing tension and encouraging rapport with your audience--if they're laughing with you, they're having a good time, and if they're laughing because of something you've said on purpose, you've got a bit of control. It's a good way of staying at-ease in front of dozens of people.
EDIT:
Luckily pitching and presenting IRL is much easier (and less harsh) than cracking wise here on srs bsns HN. If you can get away with jokes and upvotes here, you'll be fine at any venue in person. :)