On Internet Business

Mission Creep – a business problem?

Posted by Michael under Business Growth, Entrepreneur Resources, Leadership

Coined in 1993, during the UN Peacekeeping Mission as part of the international response to the Somali civil war, the term mission creep has entered daily life. Bosnia, Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya – all demonstrate examples of mission creep, which is often defined as the expansion of a project or mission beyond its original goals, often after initial successes and leading success breeding more ambitious activity until a final, often catastrophic, failure occurs.

And that could be a definition of many businesses that fail, or wobble on the edge of failure, right now. It’s easy to slide into unexpected areas of operation because they are popular with customers or even with staff, and popularity can be a driver of growth: but it shouldn’t be the only one.

Many non-profit organisations have learned to control ‘mission creep’ with mission statements, and for new businesses, or older ones that are struggling to grasp and commit to their key activities, a mission statement can be the secret weapon that keeps them on target.

Simply put, a mission statement is applied when there is a doubt test. When you wonder whether to zoom off in a new or parallel direction because a client suggests it or a competitor leaves a gap in the market, comparing the new idea to the mission statement keeps on course.

What is a business mission statement?

A mission statement is a focused, attainable, simple statement. Being the biggest Murg provider in the world is a fantastic ambition and it sounds simple but it’s not focused, and may not be attainable. Being one of the top ten Murg providers in Europe, with a skilled workforce and well-funded research programme to provide new Murg add-ons for future customers is focused, attainable and simple.

How to write a mission statement

Think of it like a laser. It’s a narrowly focused weapon that cuts through the rubbish to reveal the core of things. To get it right, make sure it:

1.    Solves unmet needs
2.    Leverages key skills within your organisation
3.    Energises and inspires your employees
4.    Anticipates change
5.    Is memorable.

Somali Mission courtesy of expertinfantry

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