Lógos, éthos and pathos in communication in business. The example of the Assessment Center/Development Center method

Abstract

The article addresses the presence of logos, ethos, and pathos in business conversational patterns. The Assessment Center/Development Center (AC/DC) method is presented as an example of a communication approach in the business context (between supervisor and employee) that incorporates this rhetorical triad. A conversation evaluation scheme aimed at assessing the employee’s performance and motivating them to develop their skills and qualifications serves as an illustrative example of this method. The article begins by introducing the terminological framework related to the classical triad of logos, ethos, and pathos. It then discusses the distinction between business communication and communication in the business context. Considering the differences between external and internal communication, the AC/DC method is discussed as an example of how to effectively manage a company's internal communication. The presentation of the conversation evaluation scheme (falling within the realm of providing constructive feedback and employing motivational practices, also known as reinforcement) provided guidelines for its implementation.