Name: Eric Martin II
Age: 32
Profession: Account director, social media guru, and entrepreneur
One Word That Describes You: Visionary
What does being one of the BEMM 100 Men of Distinction mean to you?
It means that a person’s hard work, determination, and will to succeed will be recognized no matter the odds or obstacles experienced. This is a great way to shed light on young men of color leading the charge in their respective industries, and I’m truly honored to have been spotlighted.
What are some examples of how you turned struggle into success?
The recent passing of my dad hit me like an anvil. Cancer took his life suddenly, and it was and still is tough to digest. The struggle was real, but I now look at life through a more
appreciative and humble lens. I attack my days now like they are my last, but also understand that time with family and friends are just as important as time in the office. Each day is appreciated and an hour is no longer wasted. It was important for me to realize that, no matter the struggle, you must continue to push forward. I’m here to create a legacy for my family.What is an important quality you look for in your relationships with others?
Trust and loyalty. Business or personal, if you can’t trust the one person you need to be open and honest with, the relationship will never grow and prosper. Loyalty means you’re willing to stick it out through the good times and the bad times. There is no worse feeling than when a person jumps ship as soon as things take a turn.
What are some immediate projects you are working on?
I’m currently redesigning my fashion, sports, and business website. I’m also working on a huge social influencer initiative with Hennessy US, which involves a few big personalities from entertainment and radio.
What is the best advice you ever received?
If you’re early, you’re on time. If you’re on time, you’re late. If you’re late, don’t bother showing up. I’m the first one to the office almost every day. It sets a tone for those I manage as well as those with the power to help my accession in my career and business. I’ve had many valuable conversations with top CEOs, COOs, and VPs simply by arriving 30 minutes before everyone else.
What is some advice you have for other men who want to make a difference?
Always believe in yourself.
How do you prep for an important business meeting and/or event?
If I’m preparing for a presentation, I will prepare my notes the night before, do a walk through the morning of, and vibe to good music on the way to the meeting. I’m a former athlete, so I treat it like I’m headed to a big game.
As a busy Modern Man, how do you unwind on vacation?
I like to unwind with a nice cigar and great company. I recently surprised my soon-to-be fiancé and three of her friends with a trip to St. Martin to celebrate her 30th birthday. I enjoy cooking and having a more home-type vibe while traveling, so we stayed at a villa on one of the highest peaks of the island, which provided us with 360-views that left us all speechless. The beaches, food, and historic makeup of the island easily make it one of my top trips ever.
If you could travel and stay anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
I’m a Bond fan, so I would have to say the south of France. Monte Carlo, Cannes Film Festival, and great food are only some of the draws to this quaint paradise. It’s also where big money plays.
Anything else you’d like to say?
Keep an eye out for me— I have plans to change the world.
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