A Vision Statement is a critical tool in shaping the goals (and success) of your business. Without a "big picture" or vision to keep in mind, it's all too easy to become absorbed in the day-to-day business of doing what's most urgently in front of you, but a Vision Statement can keep a team focused on the desired outcome of their efforts, and ensure that those daily tasks actually are in line with the overarching goals. You probably already have in mind a general vision of what you want your company or team to achieve; drawing up a Vision Statement (with these five tips) will solidify those goals and keep you and your employees focused on that target.
Begin with your company's Mission Statement. Why does the company exist? What is its underlying purpose? Your document should be based on, and expand on, your company's mission. The mission proclaims your purpose; the Vision Statement details how you plan to achieve and continue that purpose as your company moves forward.
Brainstorm Big. Take a little time to think creatively--if you could have all your wishes regarding your company, what would you like to see in its future? Now take a step back and consider the elements of your dreams that are practical and achievable, and incorporate these within your Vision Statement.
Be Specific. You should encapsulate the goals you want your business to achieve; as such, you should have measurable goals against which to gauge your progress. Include specifics such as timeline, markets or geographic areas to be served, products or services to be offered, profitability, growth, and customers. To be useful, the Vision Statement needs to be concrete enough that you can determine, at points in the future, how well your company is progressing toward it.
Craft your statement. Once you've decided what should be included, it's equally important to craft a well-written expression of that vision. More than any other document, logo, or branding, your Vision Statement embodies your company's future. You'll be using it as a tool to motivate employees as well as draw customers or investors; it should be engaging, exciting, and energizing to those people who have a vested interest in your company.
Share your Vision. If your statement is going to fulfill its purpose as a useful business tool, simply writing it down isn't enough. Share the vision with your employees--help them understand the big picture of the company's purpose and encourage them to embrace that purpose. Implement specific goals and objectives with the larger Vision Statement in mind, and help your team keep in mind how their daily tasks are moving the company toward achieving its goals.
Your Vision Statement may be your most important tool in planning and implementing your business strategies. The solidified vision gives you a reference against which to measure the company's performance, as well as its objectives, and enables you to keep your energies focused in the direction you want the company to move. For additional suggestions in crafting your Vision Statement, as well as implementing it, look into resources like Mind Tools for leadership tips.
Steven R. Brown is the CEO of Quality Communication Solutions. Quality Communication Solutions will provide the exact solutions you need for any type of speaking, writing, reporting, or presenting challenge that you may face. Both corporate and individual clients are equally welcome. Rates for services provided are comfortably affordable. Quality of the work provided will be unsurpassed. See: http://www.QualityCommunicationSolutions.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steven_R_Brown
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6668918
No comments:
Post a Comment