If a leader explains the importance of goals to employees and encourages them, which management function is shown?

Correct answer: Directing

Directing converts plans into action by guiding, leading, communicating with, and motivating employees. Explaining why organisational goals matter gives employees direction and meaning, while encouragement increases their willingness to perform. Therefore, option D is correct. Planning formulates goals and future actions, but it does not itself motivate employees. Organising establishes jobs, authority, and reporting relationships, whereas controlling evaluates results and initiates corrections. Leadership and motivation are specifically associated with directing, so the leader’s behaviour described in the question clearly belongs to that function.