Recently, I’ve been receiving a lot of inquiries about switching to m19, for which I’m truly grateful. Many sellers are struggling with the complexity of the Amazon advertising optimization tools they’re currently using, or they’ve hit a performance plateau, and they are seeking m19 as a solution to these challenges.

However, when I handle meetings, I don’t immediately say, “Let’s switch to m19 right away!” Instead, I first encourage a discussion on whether the current tool can truly not solve the problems at hand. Switching tools involves much more time, effort, and risk for users than we vendors might initially realize. In fact, I often suggest revisiting the current tool to see if it can still be optimized. Only when it seems impossible to resolve the issue do I begin explaining how m19’s features can address the challenges.

I often say, “Let me take off the mask of being an m19 service provider and give you my honest advice.” This is my communication style. I place the highest value on honesty to ensure that the person in front of me—whether in person or via screen—makes the best possible choice. I make sure to communicate both the pros and cons of m19, and I repeatedly explain the conditions and precautions to minimize any mismatches.

Furthermore, a recent experience reminded me of the importance of softness in communication. While on a business trip, I found a chain of udon restaurants I used to frequent as a child, and with nostalgia, I eagerly entered. However, I was informed that the last order had ended five minutes prior. Then, a middle-aged male staff member, who was cleaning up, noticed me and said, “I’m sorry, the last order ended already! But since you came all this way… The cook already left, but I’d love to make something for you, though it won’t taste as good…” His warm humor and softness truly impressed me, and I ended up sharing my childhood memories of the restaurant (laughs). This is where the beauty of human communication shines—something that an automated voice or AI response, like “We’re sorry, last orders ended five minutes ago. We look forward to serving you next time,” could never replicate.

Even at 42, I still feel the challenges of effective communication every day. But I remain committed to continuously improving, always mindful of the importance of honesty and softness/humor, and working through trial and error to achieve better communication.

Masaki “Mark” Iino
Founder & CEO
SOPHOLA, Inc

P.S. The view of Mt. Fuji from Mt. Momokura, which I climbed with my son, was incredibly beautiful and truly moving!