The Psychology of Persuasion

For any organisation to remain sustainable in a competitive world it must comprise of individuals and groups who have the skill of persuasion. For this sole motive it is crucial that organisations cultivate an internal society that encourages its leaders to exercise this skill to the mutual benefit of all. But, what are the constituents of effective persuasion?

Aristotle observed that the 3 fundamental components of effective persuasion included establishing credibility (ethos), using logical reasoning (logos) and connecting through positive emotions (pathos).

The ability to persuade is a skill that necessitates the individual to have the capacity to be authentic and transparent in order to establish a trustworthy relationship first and foremost (Ethos/Credibility).  Leveraging off the demonstrated credibility, the art of persuasion challenges the existing status-quo by putting forth a reasonable case (Logos/Logic)  that resonates with all involved in a meaningful manner (Pathos/Empathy) that conjures mutual benefit.

How do you practise the art of persuasion? Do you demonstrate the behaviours observed by Aristotle?