![The Difference Between a Vision and Mission Statement [And How to Write Both]....](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/59a5c0a6ccc5c51db1a38edf/1591995007299-ZONN2NCU1NG9WMQTBOKS/Screen+Shot+2020-06-12+at+1.49.53+PM.png)
You may know the ins and outs of your business but do you know who doesn't? Your clients!
So why is your mission and vision statement so important?
It’s tempting to jump right into building your website and selling your services, but your mission and vision statement is the most important sales strategy for your business.
It may be clear to you what you stand for and why you started your business, but your goal is to educate your customers on your core business motives and the positive outcomes you're working towards.
So how do I write a vision and mission statement that articulates my values and passion with my audience? Below are tips to get you started:
1. VISION VS. MISSION
A vision statement is your dream and the end result you want to achieve. Your description should be meaningful and exactly how you visualize the future, which stems from the output of your business.
Your mission statement, instead, should be actionable. It describes how you aspire to achieve your dream, and gives your reader a reason why your business exists.
2. For example, Warby Parker’s vision statement is:
‘We believe that buying glasses should be easy and fun. It should leave you happy and good-looking, with money in your pocket. We also believe that everyone has the right to see.”
And their mission statement is:
‘Warby Parker was founded with a rebellious spirit and lofty objective. To offer designer eyewear at a revolutionary price, while leading the way for socially conscious businesses.’
3. Write Down All of Your Ideas
Jot down your thoughts, your ideas don’t have to be perfect! Putting your thoughts on paper is what’s most important!
If you don't know where to start, ask yourself these questions below, to help you gain an understanding of what exactly is your vision and mission statement:
What does my business do?
Who is my target audience?
What problem does my service or product solve?
When I imagine my future, what goals do I see my business achieving?
What does success look like for me?
What is my dream for the world with my product or services?
Ok so now that you have your ideas written down… Go back and edit your thoughts! When editing your draft make sure they:
Are transparent, simple and brief;
Do not use elaborate language or industry-specific terminology;
Are particular to you and your business;
Are meaningful and positive;
Contribute a human side to your business;
Relate your work to its place in society; and
Are free from spelling and grammar errors.
4. Ask For Feedback
Now that you’ve edited and narrowed a couple of definite options for your vision and mission statement, share them with your business partners, friends or family and ask for their feedback. When asking for opinions, ask: “What resonates with you, and why?”
Be open-minded to all feedback, and examine it carefully. Reviewing your feedback is the most important marketing tip, this will be your guide to a memorable vision and mission statement.
As your business flourishes and evolves, be sure to return to your vision and mission statements to make updates.
Following these steps, you will be on your way to writing an inspiring vision and mission statement that captures the originality of your business.