Mission Statement Worksheet

The mission statement is a broad description of what we do, with/for whom we do it, our distinctive competence in doing it, and WHY we do it (our ultimate end). 

An effective mission statement addresses the following points:

• Broad description of what we do/are. 

• With/for whom we do it.

• Our distinctive competence. (How we do it "differently", "better", "more effectively" than others)

• WHY we do it (Our ultimate end)

CRITICAL REVIEW OF EXISTING MISSION 

If a mission statement already exists, the focus of this step is on reviewing it in light of the emerging vision statement and if necessary revising the language. Here are some questions that can aid in the review of an already-existing mission statement:

Is the mission statement clear and on target in today's operating environment? Does it address the key following key points: Broad description of what we do/are; With/for whom we do it; Our distinctive competence; WHY we do it (Our ultimate end) 

Do you have any specific questions or concerns with respect to the mission statement? 

Does the mission statement duplicate the mission of any other organization? If so, what should we do about it?

Considering the answers to these questions, how, if at all, should the mission statement be changed? 

NEW MISSION STATEMENT WORKSHEET 

(Use this worksheet when creating a new mission statement.) 

The mission statement is a broad description of what we do, with/for whom we do it, our distinctive competence, and WHY we do it. A good mission statement should answer the following questions: 

What do we do?

For whom?

Where?

How are we unique in what we do/our distinctive competence?  

What is our ultimate end in doing what we do?

Your task: 

1. Reflect on the following:

What do we do?

For whom?

Where?

How are we unique in what we do/our distinctive competence?

What is our ultimate end in doing what we do?

2. Based on your responses to #1, draft a 1-2 sentence mission statement.

3. Review the draft mission statement. Rewrite the statement until it gives you goose bumps!

Click here to view some sample mission statements 

"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good people to do nothing." Edmund Burke  View Past Quotes

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Revised: November 17, 2008