What is a mission statement and how do you write one for inclusion in a business plan?

Mission Statements

Every business has a purpose, a reason that it was created. Maybe it was to better serve the banking needs of lower income individuals. Or a business might have been launched to make pets feel at home while their owners are away. Whatever the reason, there is always a mission - a purpose for a business being in existence. A mission statement is a way of summing up why a business exists and what it intends to do in a clear and concise manner. A well defined mission statement should inspire, direct and resonate with all of the people working in and for an organization.

Although it may seem like a simple task, writing a mission statement can be a challenging activity. It is best to involve all of a company's major stakeholders in the mission statement process. That way everyone's opinion will come to the surface and any disagreements can be discussed. Everyone should have an opportunity, whether in writing or verbally, to present what they feel would be an appropriate mission statement for a company. After all of the statements have been presented, everyone should have an opportunity to make comments and then vote on which mission statement they prefer. It is important to come to a consensus. A neutral party can be used to facilitate things if need be.

Once the mission statement has been determined, it should be announced to all employees so that everyone is on the same page. A mission statement should be revised when it no longer coincides with a business� objectives or its reason for existing.

The following are some examples of mission statements from real corporations.

• Walt Disney - To make people happy

• Microsoft Corporation - To enable people and businesses throughout the world to realize their full potential

• Nike - To bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete in the world

• Wal-Mart - To give ordinary folk the chance to buy the same thing as rich people

First answer by Crystal. Last edit by Crystal. Contributor trust: 1906 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 77 [recommend question]