EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE Rick Mayfield, IPI Executive Director
2020 VISION
Getting clarity on your purpose and your mission
E
very few years, organizations revisit why they
where you want to go, or in other words what the end result
exist, what their value proposition is, and how to
will look like when you’ve accomplished what you set out
deliver it to their customers and clients in a more
to do. The vision statement is forward thinking, setting a
meaningful way than they have in the past. Often, it’s
defined direction for the planning and execution of long-term
not a complete re-evaluation of the business, but more of a
company strategies set in the future.
rebranding of how they communicate that value and purpose to those who are most interested.
Once you’ve defined your purpose, and set a clear vision of where you want to go, next you’ll want to think about
There is a very popular phrase that says: you need to know
“how” you plan to fulfill your purpose; this will be your
where you’re going and why you’re going there before you can
mission. Your team can help you to brainstorm strategies and
figure out how you’re going to get there. Although there are
objectives. By engaging your team, they will take ownership
fundamental truths to this statement, many organizations find
of how your mission can be accomplished. What your special
themselves so busy working “in” their business that they don’t
services are, or even your competitive advantage can be part
have time to work “on” their business. These “fundamental
of your mission statement. It doesn’t have to be extensive,
truths” are what leaders of organizations ponder when they
and sometimes shorter is better; as long as it communicates
are looking to develop their vision and mission statements.
what you do in a concise, impactful manner.
To get at the heart of the matter, you must begin to define
As we head into a new decade, IPI will continue to reassess
your mission with “why” at the center of the equation. Ask
the value we bring to our members ensuring that we walk
yourself, ask your board, and ask your team; “why” your
through this very same process with the sincere objective
organization exists or what is its purpose? Going back to your
of pursuing our mission; to transform the construction
company values can be a key guide to help you in the pursuit
industry to achieve exceptional results through a culture of
of your purpose. After considering what values are most
collaboration.
aligned with your purpose, developing a “purpose statement” can help you to identify your mission, define your goals and ultimately find the success you’re after. Next, you will want to develop your vision statement. Your vision statement will contain the organization’s desires of 4
Partnering Magazine Winter 2020
A small body of determined spirits fired by an unquenchable faith in their mission can alter the course of history. — Mahatma Gandhi www.partneringinstitute.org