Core values mission vision

Core Values, Vision and Mission Statements

To realize the necessity of core values, vision and mission statements we first have to look at the individual definitions of each as it pertains to business. The first of which is core values.

Core Values - The guiding principles of an organization which will not be compromised. These principles ensure that all decisions, rules of conduct, interactions with stakeholders, including; employees, customers and investors are aligned with the central beliefs of the entire organization.

The core values of an organization help define what the company stands for. The way the organization desires to be viewed in the eyes of its employees, the public and it’s customers. As the company grows the importance of communicating and understanding the core values becomes greater as some of these values can be lost throughout the course of daily business. Companies that stray from their core values tend to not perform as well as those who hold true to the guiding principles. Many organizations require each employee to memorize their core values, and understand the philosophy behind them.

Core values are often used as a litmus test in the decision making process. When a critical decision has to be made that affects the organization, many company leaders rely on the core values to ensure the decision is in alignment with them. This helps to ensure the company stays on course with what is most important with its members.

There is no set number of core values a company can have as long as they truly reflect what is important to the organization. Core values are specific and easily understood. Each one represents a part of the heart and soul of the company that enlists the pride of the employees, the loyalty of the customers, and the confidence of its shareholders.

Core values tend to be written in positive terms. An example would be “ We treat our customers with Honesty and Integrity.” instead of “ We don’t lie to our customers or disrespect them.” Writing core values in positive terms will create better buy-in from all those concerned, along with instilling a positive attitude with those who interact with your company.

At this point we move our focus to vision. And you will see that in order to create a personal identity for a corporation it is important to communicate the vision of the company. Without vision there is really no reason to be in business. The vision is the answer to why we do the things we do. Vision helps define the purpose of the organization. Without vision a company will flail around gathering revenue without any direction or purpose behind the work involved. Vision is team inspiring and helps to focus the employees to a common goal.

Vision - The “WHY” you are in business. Vision defines the purpose for opening the doors everyday and the reason you do what you do. It could be a service or an employment opportunity. It defines the impact the company has in the world today.

Understanding why the company exists and the purpose it has in the world helps to create buy-in or buy-out. Unfortunately those who do not buy into the vision should not be in the company in the first place. When a company is in a highly competitive market it is really easy to become just like the others. A clear, comprehensive vision that separates you from the rest will help your interaction with the public and become quite memorable. This will give you a competitive edge in your industry simply because your employees understand the common company goal and purpose.

It’s not good enough for your employees to come to work, do a good job and go home. When the vision of the company is clearly communicated it creates a feeling of being part of something bigger than themselves. Inspiring teamwork and a sense that every little thing that is done is important to the organization. Vision helps everyone understand their role in moving the company forward and knowing that they are playing a part in the day to day successes.

Without vision, the company will certainly fall apart, the company will start to feel like a sinking ship and soon everyone will be jumping off. When an organization finds itself in hard times a clearly defined vision can gather the troops, help motivate and inspire people to solve problems, create new programs, develop new ideas or products and put a little more effort into the situation because they have a feeling of belonging.

With an understanding of our core values and the vision of the company, we now have to look at the “HOW”. How do we incorporate our vision and core values in everything that we do? That is where the mission statement comes into play.

Mission Statement - The “HOW” we do what we do. The declaration outlining exactly the actions and reactions the company intends to accomplish with every interaction. The mission statement is a constant message, clearly defining what the organization does within the scope of it’s core values and vision.

With an understanding of our core values along with the vision of the company, we now have to look at the “HOW”. How do we incorporate our vision and core values in everything that we do? That is where the mission statement comes into play. Defining the basic fundamental philosophy of what the company does and it’s desired effect gives definition to what the company’s focus should be on. Mission statements clarify the big picture. It simply outlines the day to day performance goals of the company. It is intended to be a guide to ensure the core values and the vision of the company is carried out in everything they do.

Sometimes it's hard to know for sure that you are in line with your core values and vision. The mission is designed to take the guesswork out of the equation by ensuring that by staying focused on the mission, your core values and vision will be adhered to.