February 21, 2000

Bowling Green, Ky. -- Cornelius Martin says his business success can be summed up in two words: hard work.

"Hard work is not always fun, but hard work is the price you pay to be successful," Martin said Monday in a presentation at Western Kentucky University's Gordon Ford College of Business.

Martin is president of Martin Automotive Group, which began in 1985 with one dealership in Bowling Green and has grown 10 dealerships in four states. The business is in the top 10 of minority-owned dealer groups nationwide.

Martin, who is chair of Western's Board of Regents, spoke as part of Black History Month activities.

In his Executive-on-Campus presentation, Martin listed the seven personal attributes of success: desire, vision, character, integrity, attitude, wisdom and leadership.

All of those attributes "form the essence of who you are and what you are like as a person," said Martin, a native of Greenville.

For the entrepreneur or businessperson, keys to success include proper education or training, a clear goal, detailed research, a comprehensive business plan and acquiring financial backing, Martin said.

Martin encouraged students to obtain a broad-based education, to demand excellence, to recognize opportunities for change and to prepare themselves for disappointment.

"Rejection makes you stronger," he said.

Despite numerous challenges, Martin said he never gave up on his dream of owning his own automotive business. Last year, the Martin Automotive Group had $188 million in sales. Martin said that's a long way from 1985, when he started the business with $60,000.

Once success is achieved, Martin told students "never forget where you are, but never forget where you've been" by giving something back to the community and to those who've helped you succeed.

Martin holds leadership positions in civic and professional groups at the local, state and national level. In 1989, he was selected Small Business Person of the Year in Bowling Green-Warren County. In 1997, he was named Automobile Dealer of the Year by Black Enterprise magazine. In 1999, he received a Governor's Economic Development award.