Ask the Master Newsletter Archives

Welcome to the previous editions of the Ask the Master newsletter. On your left you will find links to tips and the how to’s of running a Virtual Assistant practice. We hope you enjoy your stay and if you have a question you’d like answered send it to submission@vatp.ca.

Your Mission Statement

Look back on the year just passed and celebrate your accomplishments. There is so much you have done this year that is worthy of your notice and appreciation.

There are times in the developing and growing of any business that you will wonder why you are doing this at all. There will be times when you are overwhelmed and questioning your decision to go into business for yourself. It is during these periods that a mission statement can be a lifesaver. A mission statement is a summary of why it is all worth it. Let's take a look at your mission in this edition.

Warmly,
Mary-Lou Ashton
Master Virtual Assistant

Questions In This Edition
(Click on the links to go to that question.)

• What exactly is a mission statement?
• What is the difference between a mission statement and a vision?
• How can I create a mission statement?
• What do I use it for?
• What is your mission statement?
  

One definition of a mission is an aim in life arising from a conviction or a sense of calling. It should be a single sentence and easily memorized and understood. A mission statement describes who you are, and why you are in business.

A vision is about the impact we want to have in the world. It is an idea or an image of a more desirable future and your articulation of a destination towards which you will aim. They are usually broad, sweeping, and inspiring—but believable. A vision needs to be huge, one that will keep the passion and energy alive for the lifetime of your business venture. It is also written in the present tense as if it has already been achieved.

A mission is a statement of how you will achieve your vision. What action you will take or services you will provide, to who and how they will benefit from them. It is the 'how' of realizing your vision.

Ask your self the following questions:

• What is the purpose of the business? Why am I in business?
• What activity am I going to do to accomplish my purpose?
• What are the basic beliefs I hold as a business owner?
• What, in the end, do I want to be remembered for?
  

The importance of mission statements is summarized quite eloquently by Lewis Caroll through the words of the Cheshire Cat in Alice in Wonderland, "If you don't know where you're going, it doesn't matter which way you go." With this in mind keeping your mission clearly in front of you on the wall in your office will support you through those tough days. Posting it on your web site and using it in marketing materials communicates the essence of your business to the public. It can also you in creating your credo or elevator speech.

The mission of the Virtual Assistant Training Program is "To create, develop and deliver cost effective, convenient, high quality training to individuals wishing to pursue the Virtual Assistant profession.”