Have you ever wondered what makes some organisations more innovative than others? They usually have a reason to change, and it comes in the form of a big ambitious goal they want to achieve. This is known as the organisation’s mission and for an effective mission that inspires your team and moves your organisation in the right direction, there are 4 critical elements it must include. In this article, I’ll take you through them. Let’s dive in!
The Power of an Ambitious Goal
Setting an ambitious yet achievable goal is the first essential building block of a great mission. According to David Pearson from the Australian Alliance to End Homelessness, ending chronic homelessness in Australia is a bold aim that captures people's imagination. Daniel Flynn from Thankyou spoke passionately about their goal of eliminating extreme global poverty.
Such lofty goals have the power to inspire people to step out of their comfort zones and push boundaries. Teams need a reason to innovate, take risks and try new approaches rather than maintaining the status quo. An ambitious long-term goal of a better future provides motivation to constantly progress the mission. It also allows impact to be clearly tracked over time, keeping the organisation accountable.
Tell a Compelling Story with Data
Merely stating a goal is not enough on its own - the mission must include why we must move away from the status quo and where we are today. The examples have a combination of compelling data interwoven within a compelling narrative of what is wrong with the status quo.
For example, discuss statistics that demonstrate the scale of issues like homelessness or poverty and why change is urgently needed. Relatable anecdotes from people affected can bring dry facts to life. Stories help others emotionally connect to the mission and understand its significance.
Outline Specific Solutions
Once goals and the background stories are established, outline the specific strategies and approaches the organisation will take under a clear heading like "Our Solution". Explaining tactics gives stakeholders confidence that ambitious aims are attainable, and empowers them to visualise progress.
Vague, open-ended missions leave supporters unsure how to get involved or make a difference. Clear solutions show that complex social problems can be solved through teamwork. They help people understand tangible ways to contribute their time, skills or resources.
Inspire Action with Clear Calls to Action
The mission must include a specific call to action that tells stakeholders exactly what is needed from them. Whether donations, volunteer hours, advocacy or something else, clear next steps are crucial to inspire action.
Great leaders continually connect each person's daily work back to achieving the overall mission. Regular "dot-connecting" discussions are important to prevent assumptions that links are obvious. A well-crafted mission using these four elements can energise any team to reach their fullest potential for innovation and impact.
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