Building Your Mission Statement

Mission Statements 101 The majority of successful companies worldwide share a common characteristic. They possess a mission or vision statement which guides their corporate policies and procedures toward a chosen goal. These statements may be long or short, simple or detailed, but universally, they define the core values and goals of the companies for which they are written.

Mission Statements 101 Today, many people create personal mission statements as guides for their individual and professional growth. If we know where we plan to go, its far easier to find the road which will take us there. A career mission statement can help to clarify your values and goals and keep you moving in the direction youve chosen.

A mission statement is also an invaluable element of your career portfolio-a collection of documents which provide a snapshot of you as a potential employee.

Creating Your Mission Statement Past Successes Write down some of your recent accomplishments–they do not have to be career specific. Find common themes in these successes Example: I lost 15 pounds. My GPA was 3.8 last semester. I was promoted to a supervisory position at my part time job. These accomplishments show that this person is hard-working and determined.

Identify the values which are most central to your identity Ideally, you should have a list of five or six of the most crucial values in your life The following web site provides many examples of personal values one could have. Honest CaringHard-Working Open to Learning HelpfulRespectful Core Values

Consider how you could best contribute to: Your Family Being loving and caring Your Friends Being a good listener and supportive friend Your Employer/Future Employers Being hard-working, responsible, and trustworthy Your Community Volunteering, fundraising for local causes The World in General Picking up trash, practicing humanity, doing what you love Potential Contributions

What do you want to accomplish in the next two to three years (short-term goals)? I want to find a job that I love where I feel my input is valuable. I want to have my own car. I want to be in a happy, stable relationship. What do you want to accomplish in the next five, or even ten years (long-term goals)? I want to have advanced at my job. I want to own my own home. I want to be happily married with children. Goals

Write your statement This should be based on your answers and reflections on the first four steps: What are the common themes in your successes? What are your five or six most crucial values? How can you best contribute? What do you want to accomplish?