Are you ready to start turning your ideas / passion into money?
Whether or not you have your business up and running yet it’s critical you begin to see yourself running a successful business. When I’m faced with challenges in my business, it’s my vision that keeps me going. When I look at the inspiring vision I set when I started my company, all complications fade and I’m motivated to push through and carry on.
Every major company in the world has a vision or mission statement – a broad, futuristic idea of what their company will achieve and look like in the future. Our five-step process helps you get there, but you need to know where “there” is first.
So, let’s take a look at what a vision statement is, and why it’s important for you to create one for your business.
A vision statement is a broad, inspiring image of the future state a business aspires to reach. It describes without specifying how aspirations will be achieved, or when. It’s ambitious and forward-thinking. It’s not about where the organization is now… it’s about what the organisation will be, or aspires to be.
A vision statement needs to:
- describe your aspirations and intent
- be inspirational for your future staff and customers
- project a compelling story
- paint a clear picture
- use engaging and descriptive language
- be realistic
- align with your company’s values
The vision statement will also provide a clear criteria or measuring stick for decision-making. When making tough choices, ask “Does this support the vision statement?” If major initiatives don’t support the overall business vision, chances are they aren’t worth the investment of time and money.
If your business doesn’t have a vision statement, it needs one. There’s no time like the present! If you already have one, then take this opportunity to strengthen it or make sure it’s aligned with the current dream you have for yourself and your company.
Your vision statement – once created, agreed to and perfected – should remain consistent and unchanged for several years.
Your team needs a strong, clear vision statement just as much as you do. When creating a vision statement, keep this in mind. The vision will need to be something that your staff can embrace, get excited about and that will motivate, inspire and build morale.
How will you communicate your vision to your employees once you’ve created it? How can you inspire them to nurture and support your vision on a daily basis, and in everything they do? How can you empower and motivate them to take ownership of the company’s future and their stake in it?
Our next blog post will help you get started with creating YOUR unique vision statement. In the meantime, if you would like some help, please e-mail me at Brigitte@momentumfirst.com.au and we’ll help you get started quickly and easily.