Nicotine is highly addictive. The addictive effect of nicotine is main reason why is widely used. Many smokers continue to smoke in order to avoid pain of withdrawal symptoms. Smokers also adjust their behavior (inhaling more deeply, for example) to keep a certain level of nicotine in body.

Smokers who usually smoke at least 15 cigarettes per day and/or smoke their first cigarette of day within 30 minutes of waking are likely to experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms. They will likely find quitting uncomfortable.

Stopping can produce unpleasant withdrawal symptoms including depression, insomnia, irritability, difficulty concentrating, restlessness, anxiety, decreased heart rate, increased appetite, weight gain, and craving for nicotine.

Symptoms peak from 24 to 48 hours after stopping and can last from three days up to four weeks, although craving for a cigarette can last for months.

Most smokers make an average of three or four quit attempts before becoming long-term non-smokers. Relapse is rule rather than exception and must be viewed as part of process of quitting.

Remember, 90% of satisfying customer is making customer feel like you are listening to them. The use of and says to customer I am listening to your input.

Lets apply this to above scenario:

Customer: “Why don’t you just do it this way, and it will take care of situation.”

Customer Service Person: “I understand what you are saying, and we can to do it this way.”

As you can see it is a more positive response to customer’s feedback. Instead of customer being on opposite side of your solution by using word and you create a bridge for customer to cross to consider your solutions. Bottom line, your customer is more likely to quickly accept your solutions.

So, if possible, record yourself in a conversation so that you can see where you are using but. Then work at substituting and in place of but. It may feel a little awkward at first. However, more you use and smoother it will sound and you will see immediate results. The benefits are less stress for you, positive customer service situations, and happier customers. Remember, leave your buts behind and you, too, will provide great customer service.