How Does A Simple Mission Statement Help My Company?

As a small business owner, ego may be hurting your business. Often, as bosses at the head of an organization, we are used to people bowing down and doing what we say. That attitude is found over and over in business today, as employees strive to keep their jobs. However, our ego may be costing us many dollars each year.

As business owners we must foster an environment where our employees are free to come to us and share their best ideas. The best way to foster this environment is to be sure that we have our company's mission statement in place. Both our customers and our employees need to know that we are on a clearly defined mission. When the mission statement is missing, then egos get in the way. When a mission statement is in place, then everyone has a beacon light to follow when making decisions.

The first step in developing this mission statement is to answer the question of why we are in business. At the end of your life or when selling your business, what will people say that your business has accomplished? We all hope to make plenty of money, but why are you doing what you are doing? To arrive at this answer, you will need to get away from all the daily pressures for a time of reflection. During this time, it is important to be positive about the business and focus your mind on the future. Leave the computer and the cell phone at home and take time to think about the positive future that you want to create for the world. Write down your ideas the old fashion way using pen and paper.

After you have written down the answer to why you are in business, then it is time to dream. Ask yourself, "If money were no issue, what would my business be doing?" Again, write down the answers that come to your mind. Recording the answers without modern interruptions will give you great insights on where your company is headed without being unduly distracted.

The next step for a small business owner is to look for a mentor. Look for someone who has accomplished what you want to accomplish in your business. Call them up and ask whether they will meet with you. Most business owners will be thrilled at the opportunity to help another business person succeed. Many will give freely of their time. In conversation with this person, talk about what you want your business to accomplish and why. Ask for their input into the process.

The next step in the process is to write or revise the company's mission statement. Look for clarity in your thoughts. Suddenly, you will find that you have a short, simple statement that clearly defines what you want your business to become.

The last step is to clearly convey your mission statement to everyone within your company. From the lowest employee to the top manager, all should be clearly able to explain the company's mission statement. Whenever problems arise in the business, return to the mission statement. It will serve as the beacon light.