Before we jump into what the key differences between a mission and vision statement are, it is important that you understand what a mission and vision statement is.
A mission statement is what your company is doing right now, whereas a vision statement is something you want to achieve in the future.
In the world of business and organisations, a clear sense of purpose and direction is crucial for success. Two fundamental tools that help define this purpose and direction are mission statements and vision statements.
While these statements may seem similar at first glance, they both offer clear purposes and have different implications for an organisation’s strategy and culture.
Throughout this blog, we will be discussing the difference between mission statements and vision statements, exploring why each is essential for guiding a business towards its goals and objectives. For more information, read on.
What Exactly is a Mission Statement?
A mission statement’s objective is put in place to allow an organisation to run smoothly. It summarises the core purpose and reason for the business.
This statement defines what the organisation does, who it serves, and how it goes about fulfilling its purpose.
Mission statements are typically more focused on the present and near future, reflecting the organisation’s current activities and the values that motivate them. A well-crafted mission statement should answer the following questions:
‘What is the organisation’s primary purpose?’. This is the main reason for the organisation’s existence, beyond just making a profit. ‘How does the organisation operate?’. This refers to the organisation’s values, principles, and strategies it follows to achieve its purpose.
Now that you have a better understanding of what a mission statement is, let’s discuss some examples of the concept of a mission statement.
For example, a hospital quotes ‘Our mission is to provide high-quality, compassionate healthcare to the communities we serve.’
‘We are dedicated to improving the well-being of our patients by delivering outstanding medical services while upholding the values of integrity, respect, and excellence.’ In this mission statement, the purpose of this hospital is clear – to provide healthcare.
What is a Vision Statement?
While a mission statement deals with the present, a vision statement is something most successful companies use as a goal they want to achieve.
Vision statements are inspirational as they motivate employees and stakeholders to work together towards a shared dream. A vision statement should address the following aspects:
Firstly it needs to consider what the organization aspires to achieve in the long run. This is the big picture that might take months or even years to accomplish.
Moreover, you should also consider what success will look like for your company. The vision statement should describe the desired state the organization aims to reach.
Finally, the vision statement will need to consider how the organization will make a positive impact. This section highlights the organization’s commitment to creating value beyond profits.
Here is an example of what a vision statement is: “Our vision is to become the region’s leading healthcare institution, renowned for innovative treatments and exceptional patient experiences.’
In this vision statement, the hospital outlines its aspiration, which is to become a leading healthcare institution. It also expresses success, which includes innovation and exceptional patient experiences.
What Are The Key Differences Between Mission And Vision Statements?
Now that you understand what a mission and vision statement is, we will move on to the key differences between the two. Firstly, mission statements focus on the present and near future, addressing the organization’s current activities and values.
However, vision statements emphasize the company’s future aspirations and goals as well as what the organization aims to achieve.
Moreover, mission statements define the organization’s core purpose, who it serves, and how it operates. Whereas a vision statement drives the organization towards a future state, inspiring and motivating associates.
Mission statements deal with the “here and now” and the organization’s day-to-day activities. Vision Statements, however, consider “what could be” and the organization’s long-term aspirations.
Finally, a mission statement provides clarity and focus for internal and external stakeholders, guiding daily decisions. However, a vision statement Inspires and aligns employees and stakeholders towards a shared vision, fostering a sense of purpose.
What Are The Purposes of Vision And Mission Statements?
Mission statements highlight the core values of your company and help everyone in the workplace, including customers, to understand what your business is about and how you differentiate from other companies.
Vision statements, however, are something that you put in place for your organization to work towards. It is a reminder of what you are aiming to achieve because it can be easy to lose sight of your goals.
So, start jotting down ideas of where you want to be in a few years so you can start to work towards these goals and be the best you can be. Succession planning is a great way to do this and comes with a range of benefits. If you feel like you may struggle with this, there is no need to worry because we at Move are here to help you!
Contact Move For That Extra Bit of Support!
Here at Move, we understand that it can be extremely difficult to run a business, which is why we are here to help. Coming up with your mission and vision statement can be time-consuming and daunting, but with us, it doesn’t have to be!
We offer a range of services, such as elite mastermind groups for those who enjoy working with others and business coaching sessions. Here at Move, we believe that business coaches can help you advance within yourself and your business.
When you own a business, you are responsible for all aspects of it. Even though you may have a designated employee who works on certain jobs, the responsibilities always come down to you.
The business world can be lonely; however, with Move, this isn’t the case. Business coaches work with you to help you focus on the growth of your business and ensure that everything runs smoothly.
For more information on the services we offer or to speak to a member of our team, don’t hesitate to contact us at 07852 970 718. We are more than happy to help!
Mark is a multi-award winner in business networking and relationship building. He is passionate about coaching and mentoring business owners and professionals through 1-1 & group coaching, team performance workshops and group mastermind sessions.