Here is another valuable Management Tip of the Day from Harvard Business Review. To sign up for a free subscription to any/all HBR newsletters, please click here.

*     *     *

When people know why they’re being asked to do something, they’re much more likely to do it. So next time you’re preparing to deliver an important message to your team, make sure you’re clear on the “why” behind it.

o Start by asking yourself a few “what” questions, such as: What are the stakes? What will the future look like if we get this done?

o Next, figure out how to clearly articulate your reasoning. Think about what action you’re asking your team to take, and then follow it with a clear, well-practiced explanation. For example: We need to improve our hiring practices, because our current process isn’t attracting a diverse enough pool of candidates.

o And be prepared to answer follow-up questions and explain the process that led to the decision. You’ll be more persuasive if you share ideas that you considered, explored, tested, and then abandoned.

This level of transparency will keep your team motivated to pursue the task at hand.

This tip is adapted from “Leadership Is About Communicating ‘Why’,” by Nancy Duarte.

*     *     *

Here’s a direct link to dozens of other Management Tips.