Originally Posted by Lucid Chaotic

If you tell us a little more about the line of work you intend to pursue, we might be able to offer some suggestions. On the outset, I wouldn’t be too concerned about that specific comment.

Having experienced both academic and industry environments, I can tell you that in an academic context, quite often your power of influence goes unnoticed because the other person is not open and receptive to your influence, especially students. This is quite different from how things work in a different employment environment where you have the opportunity to demonstrate your skills through your aptitude and your work, and the other party is more accessible, judicious and responsive.