Sofia's corporation has just acquired another company, and she is scheduled to speak to her newly acquired employees. She begins her speech by telling the acquired employees that she knows they are worried that their jobs might be eliminated. She goes on to say that she would be worried too, if she were in their positions, but that she personally promises that there will be no mass firings. What component of ethos is Sofia attempting to build with her audience?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Speakers are perceived as credible if they seem to care about the audience. Speaking with sincerity will lead audiences to believe in your goodwill toward them. If listeners think you are being dishonest with them or attempting to mislead them, they are not likely to assume you are concerned about their well-being.

Sofia's Corporation Has Just Acquired Another Company, and She Is