Most businesses have some form of mission statement -- whether they know it or not. For example, other names for a mission include: founder's philosophy, statement of purpose, business philosophy. An organization's mission describes its fundemental purpose and overall philosophy. Note: A mission statement (what we are) is different than a vision statement (what we want to become).

Other ways to think about a mission statement as you begin to write one include:

• Answers the question, “What business are we in?”
• Provides thrust and direction to the organization.
• Must be market-oriented (focusing on the problem the business is solving), not product-oriented.
• Should be realistic and attainable… ambitious, but not impossible.
• Should motivate employees and other stakeholders.

Why is a mission statement important?

• Provides thrust and direction to the organization.
• Cornerstone of all strategic planning.

As you begin to work on your company's mission statement, remember that it is best to keep it to an actual statement -- concise and to the point, and something that can be easily remembered.

Here are some sample business mission statements.