For nonprofits the mission is literally a reason for being. At for-profits the mission is often a way to attract likeminded customers and clearly define “what we do” and “where we are headed”. And sometimes, companies just create something that sounds like what they are supposed to say is their mission…. let’s focus on the first two examples….
Mission statements are a great way of keeping and attracting not only good donors and customers, but good team members. Your organization’s mission statement offers a way to energize, unite, and build excitement.
The care and feeding of the Mission Statement
Although, I don’t condone changing the concept of your mission statement on a regular basis, tweaking the way your mission is conveyed is a healthy exercise.
How concise is your mission statement?
Take a moment to look at your mission. Is it easy enough to remember that your team and board members could recite it to others? If not, then why not explore creating one that they will commit to memory? After all, if these, your biggest evangelists can’t effectively evangelize then there is little hope that they will successfully attract new donors and brand believers.
Trim the fat. Try simplifying your mission.
Try updating your mission statement to one sentence or less. This may not be your official mission, but it should exude the essence of the full mission, only a bit more practical for everyday use!
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