Mark A Kern, DBA

People-Centered Leader Transforming Teams Through Strategic Leadership & Mentoring

Menu
  • Career
  • Faith
  • Training
  • Finance
  • Investing
  • Leadership
  • Mentoring
Menu

Mentoring

Dressing Professionally: More Than Just Clothes – It’s Leadership in Action

Posted on 18 June 202518 June 2025 by Mark Kern

First impressions in leadership and mentoring are vital as they establish trust and credibility. A strong introduction fosters psychological safety, encourages open communication, and enhances influence. Positive initial interactions lay the groundwork for long-term relationships, making it essential for leaders to present themselves confidently and approachably to inspire and empower mentees effectively.

Read more

Breaking the Curse of Knowledge in Leadership 

Posted on 18 June 202518 June 2025 by Mark Kern

The Curse of Knowledge hinders effective communication between experts and beginners, leading to confusion. Great leaders combat this by using clear language, checking understanding, and making learning engaging through analogies. Mentorship focuses on teaching rather than merely delivering information, emphasizing clarity over complexity.

Read more

Praise in Public, Correct in Private: The Mentor’s Guiding Principle

Posted on 8 June 202518 June 2025 by Mark Kern

Mentorship encompasses trust, confidence-building, and empowerment. Effective mentorship involves publicly praising mentees to enhance their confidence and inspire peers, while private corrections promote growth without embarrassment. This dual approach fosters a supportive atmosphere where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities, ultimately leading to motivated, resilient mentees prepared to reach their potential.

Read more

5 Steps to Retain Employees: Building a Culture Where Talent Thrives

Posted on 7 June 202518 June 2025 by Mark Kern

In today’s competitive marketplace, retaining top talent is more than just keeping your door open—it’s about creating an environment where every team member feels empowered, recognized, and excited to contribute. Here are five steps that can transform your employee retention strategy: Prioritize Clear Communication– Open and honest dialogue is the foundation of a resilient team….

Read more
  • 1
  • 2
  • Next

About

Dr. Mark Kern, is a seasoned business administration professional with extensive experience bridging the worlds of federal revenue management and academia.

With a Doctorate of Business Administration from Liberty University, an MBA with a Marketing Concentration, and a BS in Business Administration with an Economics Concentration—both from the University of Kansas—Mark has built a distinguished career that combines practical leadership in large organizations with a passion for teaching and mentoring.

Currently serving in senior roles at the Internal Revenue Service, Mark leads teams dedicated to securing delinquent returns and implementing vital tax enforcement strategies. His expertise spans managing complex projects, mentoring emerging leaders through specialized programs, and driving strategic initiatives that enhance operational efficiency. His leadership experience is further bolstered by previous roles in revenue assurance and security, underscoring a career-long commitment to excellence in public service.

Mark’s multifaceted expertise, rigorous academic background, and real-world leadership make him a unique asset in both industry and higher education. He is continually pursuing innovative research, most recently exploring the dynamics of community engagement and financial stewardship within church organizations.

Whether in the classroom or at the helm of critical projects at the IRS, Mark's career is marked by a commitment to excellence, mentorship, and a strategic vision for the future.

Academic Experience

In addition to his federal service, Mark is a dedicated educator. As an Adjunct Instructor at Highland Community College, he has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of business professionals by teaching courses in business fundamentals, accounting, human resources, and personal finance.

His hands-on approach to teaching—characterized by engaging curriculum design, interactive course materials, and individualized support—reflects his belief in empowering students through knowledge.

  • Career
  • Faith
  • Finance
  • Investing
  • Leadership
  • Mentoring
  • Training

“I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me" (Philippians 4:13)
  • LinkedIn
  • Instagram
  • X

  • Small Shifts, Big Impact: How Nudge Theory Shapes Smarter Decisions
  • Letting Go to Lead Forward: The Sunk Cost Fallacy in Leadership
  • Dressing Professionally: More Than Just Clothes – It’s Leadership in Action
  • New Managers: How to Avoid Bias in Performance Evaluations
  • Eliminating Bias in Hiring: A Guide
©2025 Mark A Kern, DBA