How to write a mission statement
Previously on this blog have discussed the difference between the mission statement and the vision statement, as well as have taken a look at how to write the latter. Now it is time to talk about how to go about creating an effective mission statement, which is to define what your current goals, objectives and mission is as a business. When it comes to your mission statement, you should be as specific and as honest as you can be. Remember, it is to serve as a guide to what your business’ identity and purpose is.
- Take time to define your Value Propositions
Perhaps, one of the most important exercises you will conduct when crafting and designing your business model. What value are you providing to your target customers? What will the customers choose you ahead of your competitors? How are you different? These questions need to be asked and answered when defining your value propositions even before you start your business, let alone mission statement.
- What is your mission?
Unlike value proposition, it is more of an internal question, which should help you to obtain a sense of purpose and direction. You can share it with your customers and public, as many companies do, in order to generate a sense of unity, brand loyalty and be something more than just a service provider. It is important to keep in mind, however, that you should stick to your mission. It is not a goal or an objective, but an ever-lasting aspiration and is something bigger than just a destination at which you want to arrive – these exist within your mission. Your mission is the reason why your business exists.
- Introduce employee culture.
Everyone performs better if they work in the environment that makes them feel as part of the family and conveys the sense of unity. Try to listen to your employees, accommodate their needs and heed to their feedback. Make it their second home. However, you should also introduce clear guidelines as to what level of professionalism, competence and formality you expect at work from them. That would include the dress-code, flexi-time, internet-use policy, etc.
- Understand what you want to get out of your business.
Many business owners are shocked and frustrated by how much time and effort their enterprise consumes, after having started it. Many of them work seven days a week without being able to take holidays or get sick. This level of dedication is expected in the first couple of years, but often it goes on for much longer, causing entrepreneurs to grow increasingly displeased and disillusioned with the state of things. This is mostly due to poor planning and lack of mission and vision statements. You should have a plan for all stages of your business existence and determine what exactly you want to get and what you are prepared to put into at every stage. At the end of the day, you work to live, not live to work.
There is a good saying that says, “if you fail to prepare, prepare to fail”. Try to avoid being associated with it.