Image: Cityfoto.at
At a young age, Kern was involved in the community, was a class spokesman and school spokesman – and developed a feel for responsibility. However, what really drove him was curiosity about life: “I always thought it was a waste of being only interested in one thing,” he reveals in the podcast conversation on the sidelines of the OÖN Economic Academy. So he switched from the economy to politics and back again.
Oönachrichten: Would your classmates already described them as ambitious and determined?
Core: Not really. As a child, I actually wanted to be a soccer professional and was rather committed in the community than targeted career -oriented. The development towards school spokesman or later in politics was not predictable, but the need to bring me in was there early.
Why did you go into business after studying and not immediately in politics?
It was a mixture of curiosity and the desire to see effects. I wanted to develop personally and get to know more than just the political world. It was important to me to have real “impact” instead of only dealing with survey values.
How did you work to the top in the group?
That was primarily hard work and commitment. I have intensively acquired all the knowledge of the energy industry and tried to always have a knowledge advantage. Creativity in management comes from knowledge, and this is achieved through consistent use.
Did you have a mentor on your career path?
I didn’t have a direct mentor, but my first boss, Peter Kostelka, shaped me a lot. His work ethic to be full of use was a real role model for me. You learn a lot from those under which you work – for good and bad.
What was the clever or best decision of your career?
The decision to start again as an entrepreneur and consultant after politics was a formative. It was a test of courage to pass without office and position. Today I very much enjoy that I can go my own way and bring in my experiences in new areas.
What motivated her to switch from business to politics at the time, even though this was often referred to as the “Suicide Mission”?
On the one hand, it was the desire for a new challenge, but on the other hand, but also gratitude towards the country. I wanted to give something back because I benefited from the career opportunities in Austria. It seemed to me the right moment to take responsibility.
In your view, what distinguishes the economy from politics, especially with regard to implementation?
In the economy, you can bring about more and efficient changes, while there is a lot of talk in politics, but little is realized. The implementation is much more limited by the political system and compromises. That was partly sobering compared to the economy.
What makes good leadership or leadership for you?
Good leadership means developing alternatives, motivating the right people and pursuing visions together. It is particularly important to create longing for the goal, as Saint-Exupéry said: “Do longing for the sea.” No manager succeeds without a committed team.
How do you deal with crises and negative developments, for example with regard to Europe or current political challenges?
I am not a pessimist and I don’t believe in the fall of the West. We face major challenges, but also with enormous opportunities through technological progress. The future lies in our hands, and it takes more optimism and initiatives – politics should work more strongly again.
Which personal property are you particularly proud of and what can you learn from them?
I naturally have a high energy level and let myself be inspired easily for new things. Anyone who gets their energy through positive activities, friendships and passion for what they do can move a lot. It is important to stay true to yourself and enjoy it.
Image: Cityfoto.at
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Image: Cityfoto.at
Source: Nachrichten
