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WHEN IS A COMPANY VISION REALLY NECESSARY?

Guest post by: Michael Heah

Article Overview: What is the purpose of a company vision? Is it really necessary to have one for your organization?

WHEN IS A COMPANY VISION REALLY NECESSARY?

"Don't you think that the term "company vision" is an over-used phrase? Regimentally, a company usually comes up with a vision, hung it on the wall and then get on with their business with little regard to that vision. Wouldn't you think a company's business goals be sufficient to guide and tell people what they want out of their business? What is your view on this?" My views are summarized as follows: "There is no problem if business owners are happy to let their companies be "cold-blooded" entities with short-range objectives to make money only and their employeees are paid a fair day's wage in exchange for their "labor". Honestly, would you want to work for such an organization that does not provide you with more meaning and inspiration to work your best? It is true that some organizations just put up a plaque of their company vision on the wall. But let's admire those that sincerely do this becasue they want to provide their people with an inspirational purpose in the roles they want to play for their customers and the community at large. To them, their organization has a "human personality" with values, beliefs, goals and aspirations and are able to live by them.

The bottomline: It is vital that every purposeful organization is governed by a common vision that unites everyone to it. Either the CEO shares his or her vision to everyone or they can share it with a selected group of people. Ask what does your company want to be remembered for, how to get there, and the value system that will ensure its success.

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Article Tags: CEOs vision, company vision, value system



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