How to Start a Mission Statement: Steps, Examples, and Tips

Introduction

A mission statement is a concise description of the purpose and values of an organization. It serves as a guide for decision-making and helps keep the organization focused on its goals. Developing a well-crafted mission statement is essential for any organization that wants to be successful.

Steps for Developing a Mission Statement

Creating a mission statement can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some steps to help you get started:

Research Your Industry

The first step in creating a mission statement is to research your industry. This will help you understand the current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the industry. It will also give you insight into what other organizations in your industry are doing and how they are positioning themselves. This information can be used to inform and shape your mission statement.

Identify Your Values

The next step is to identify your organization’s core values. These values should be the foundation of your mission statement. They should reflect the beliefs and principles that guide your organization’s decisions and actions. Identifying your values can help you create a mission statement that is meaningful and resonates with your target audience.

Brainstorm Potential Statements

Once you have identified your values, it’s time to start brainstorming potential mission statements. Think about what makes your organization unique and special. What do you want to achieve? How do you plan to make a difference? Answering these questions can help you come up with ideas for your mission statement.

Examples of Successful Mission Statements

Here are some examples of successful mission statements from various organizations:

• Apple: “To make the best products on earth and enrich people’s lives.”
• Google: “To organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful.”
• Starbucks: “To inspire and nurture the human spirit – one person, one cup and one neighborhood at a time.”
• Microsoft: “To empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.”

Tips and Advice for Writing Effective Mission Statements

Now that you have some ideas for your mission statement, here are some tips and advice to help you write an effective one:

• Keep it short and simple: A mission statement should be brief and to the point. Avoid using jargon or long, complicated sentences.
• Make sure it is meaningful: Your mission statement should reflect the values and goals of your organization. It should be something that your employees can rally behind and believe in.
• Consider the target audience: Think about who your mission statement is for. Is it for your employees? Customers? Investors? Make sure the language you use is appropriate for the target audience.

How to Review and Revise a Mission Statement

It’s important to regularly review and revise your mission statement to make sure it is still relevant and reflective of your organization’s values and goals. Here are some things to consider when reviewing and revising your mission statement:

• Assess if the mission statement is still relevant: Consider any changes in the industry or organization since the mission statement was written. Is the mission statement still valid? Does it need to be updated?
• Consider changes in the industry or organization: Are there any new trends or developments that need to be addressed in the mission statement?
• Re-evaluate your values: Take some time to re-evaluate your organization’s core values. Are they still the same? Do they need to be updated?

Conclusion

A mission statement is an important tool for any organization. It helps define the purpose and values of the organization and serves as a guide for decision-making. Creating a well-crafted mission statement takes time and effort, but it is worth it. Follow the steps outlined above, use the examples and tips provided, and remember to review and revise your mission statement regularly. With a clear mission statement, your organization will be well-positioned for success.