Jane Atkinson: Engineering’s leading lady

Aug 21 2009 By Alastair Gilmour, The Journal

Jane Atkinson on influence

What, in your opinion, is influence?

Influence is the effect or perceived power of one person over another. Individuals at all levels within an organisation can have influence, it is not directly associated with hierarchy.

Is influence the same as power?

Although influence and power are not the same thing, they are related. In most cases, influence is a subset of power.

Who or what have you been most influenced by?

Throughout my career there have been specific individuals that have influenced me, most of which have become mentors in one form or another.

Who or what has most benefited from your influence?

I would hope that people who have worked for me in the past have been influenced by me. All of the jobs I have had, I have had to make significant changes, most of which have been successful. Without the buy-in from my teams this would not have happened. I hope my role and the work I do, especially with young people and engineers, help influence their career choices and raise aspirations.

To be influential you must ...

Gain respect from the people around you, understand the effect you can have on them and learn to listen.