How to explain a decision to your team

Short answer: say “Here's why this matters: the client renewal depends on it.”

DON'T SAY
“Because I said so.”
SAY THIS
“Here's why this matters: the client renewal depends on it.”
People commit harder when they understand the reason.

When to use it

Use it when someone asks why something has to be done, especially something tedious or urgent. Give the real reason. People work harder and make better choices along the way when they understand why it matters.

Example

Teammate: “Why do we have to finish this by Thursday?”

You: “Here's why this matters: the client renewal depends on it.”

In an email or Slack message

In a team message: “Priority this week is the client report. Here's why: their renewal depends on it, and they review it Friday.”

Quick drill

When there's a mistake or failure on your team.

Which sounds more confident?

Practice 10 more →

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25 phrases that make you sound confident at work

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