Guide for Writing an Organizational Mission Statement

A mission statement is a guiding set of ideas that is articulated, understood, and supported by all the people that an organization depends on for its success. Writing an organizational mission statement is an important part of building any company. They are central to guiding a company's behavior and their communications with stakeholders.

Often companies use their "mission statement" as part of an advertising slogan, but a real mission statement is actually to keep people aware of the organization's purpose and goals. Usually the "one-liner" mission statements are supported by a longer mission statement that outlines the values of the company.

Ideally a mission statement is an elevated, inspiring statement. It also should be an expression of ideals and values that is long-term and strategic. Most importantly the organizational mission statement should be something that stakeholders can believe in.

Mission statements detail the purpose, path, and philosophy of an organization. They clarify who the company is, what it does, what is stands for, and why it does these things. It can also address problems or needs the organization is trying to address or identify what makes the organization unique. While it is possible to include these things, the main thing to get across in an organization's mission statement is the organization's reason for existence.

A Few Tips:

Tip for writing an Organizational Mission Statement # 1) The best mission statements are three to four sentences long. If it is too short the mission statement will not include everything it needs to and if it is too long it will lose focus.

Tip for writing an Organizational Mission Statement # 2) An effective mission statement will be developed with input from all members of an organization. Participation from different parts of an organization will strengthen the validity of the mission statement.

Tip for writing an Organizational Mission Statement # 3) Make sure the mission statement is unique. It is a good idea to examine other mission statements when in the process of writing, but make sure the organization's mission statement does not copy another.

Tip for writing an Organizational Mission Statement # 4) Avoid self-aggrandizement. The organization's mission statement is not the place to state what great quality and service it provides.

Tip for writing an Organizational Mission Statement # 5) Make sure the mission statement is something that you actually believe in. If the mission statement is a lie others will soon realize it.