Demands do not motivate. Neither do hints. Ask directly.
Often when a person needs something, instead of coming out and asking for it directly, s/he only hints at what s/he needs. Hints do not motivate.
- A hint does not convey a message and does not deliver an impetus to act.
- The listener may even feel irritated, as subconsciously he expected to hear a request and its implicit compliment, and was disappointed not to receive it.