In the past, mission statements were primarily used in non-profit organisations to describe their appeal to the public, to strengthen a common interest into their causes and to solicit funding for its aims and objectives.

The practice of including mission statements in most businesses has changed dramatically.

In my humble opinion, this has been an important change because all organisations/businesses -- large, medium, small and even sole proprietorship businesses needs to a have written purpose -- which is exactly what a mission statement conveys.

A few of my clients are reluctant to write a mission statement for their businesses.

These clients feel they have functioned successfully in business without one and have literally stated: "I don't need to bother with it, that's just the latest business `buzzword' of the day''. Fortunately, they are successful, but having a written statement, which specifically states the functions of your business in conjunction with what the hope is for your future achievements, are extremely beneficial.

It states upfront to the public what your organisation is all about, without going into any verbal dialogue.

Fundamentally, a mission statement is a brief proclamation to the public declaring the values and concepts of an organisation, and how it intends to accomplish those promises, all written in one paragraph.

It also reveals to your staff the goals, values and expectations of the company.

If you're thinking of writing or reviewing your mission statement, here are some helpful tips: Your first goal is to draft up the reasons and the purpose of the organisation/business; Make sure the reasons and purpose address the needs, concepts and values of your organisation/business; Don't use jargon, or commonly used terms known only to those in your particular organisation's field -- this limits your statement; Be realistic, don't make promises you can't possibly accomplish; Make it simple, don't use words your readers will have to consult the dictionary to understand; Motivating -- make sure it adds a motivation spice for all, especially employees; Get input from staff members and others. Bounce off your final draft on "mentors'', don't limit yourself to only those in your field, you may be pleasantly surprised at how much an objective, experienced business mind can lend your statement; Try to limit the length -- if possible 50 words or less; Encourage employees to memorise it, this way they may be inspired to live up to it; Don't etch it in stone -- make sure it is adaptable to future changes and needs; Be proud of your statement -- get it mounted and hang it prominently where it can be read by all and be proud to share it with others! In today's business world, most organisations have a written mission statement displayed in their reception area. Listed below are two organisations that were willing to share their mission statements: 1. The Department of Airport Operations: "Our Mission is to Serve Bermuda by Developing an Airport for the 21st Century and by providing Superior Services to Our Customers.'' Note they have capitalised the various words to emphasise their goals, and have also clearly stated their values and hope for future accomplishments in 22 words.

2. XL Capital Ltd.: "To create profitable growth through the efficient delivery of value added products and services to our quality franchise customers. We will optimise our competitive advantages, through continued investment in our people and by leveraging our unique combination of structure, entrepreneurial culture, balance sheet and intellectual capital.'' Note they have covered all goals, values and the hope for future achievements, all in less than 50 words.

After you have successfully written your Mission Statement, review it periodically. As a rule of thumb, most MS's are revisited and revised every three to five years.

Cindy Swan is a Professional Organiser with over 20 years of office administrative managerial experience and a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers. Her column appears in the business section on the first and third Thursday of each month. Address inquiries to Cindy Swan, PO Box 304 St. George's GEBX or email her at organise y ibl.bm