Working the smoking area is much easier than working the room. Best conversations of my life have been standing on a curb with another smoker. I quit about a year ago, but still use the ecig.
As an ex smoker I fully agree. I miss the fun l had during the smoke breaks with other people. After I quit smoking however unfortunately l quit as well the habit to make these fun and efficient breaks.
Not sure this would be as effective if I stood around puffing on a pencil. I don't know, I've never smoked except once when I was 11.
There are nicotine free e-cigs that basically emit flavored water vapor. Never tried one, but they do exist.