Rhetorical Appeals
Ethos: Moral Character
Build trust through demonstrating integrity, honesty, and ethical values.
What it is
Before & after
“Poor character: "This will definitely work" (when uncertain) or blaming others for failures”
“Strong character: "Based on current data, this shows promise, though we should monitor these potential risks I've identified"”
When you’ll use it
Leadership communication: Acknowledging mistakes openly and taking responsibility for team failures
Difficult conversations: Admitting uncertainty when lacking complete information rather than pretending to know everything
Stakeholder presentations: Presenting both positive and negative aspects of proposals with balanced transparency
Team meetings: Following through consistently on commitments made and explaining when circumstances require changes
Pro tip
Show your values through honest acknowledgment of challenges.
Questions & answers
3 questionsLearn more
Practice this concept
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