A good example of a vision statement is: "A just world without poverty" (Oxfam).
Vision statements are aspirational declarations that outline what an organization hopes to achieve in the long term. They're a guiding star, setting the direction and inspiring stakeholders. Here are several other notable examples, further illustrating the variety in scope and focus:
Examples of Vision Statements:
| Organization | Vision Statement |
|---|---|
| Create economic opportunity for every member of the global workforce. | |
| Microsoft | To empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. |
| Nike | To bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete* in the world. |
| Oxfam | A just world without poverty. |
*Nike clarifies that "If you have a body, you are an athlete."
Key Characteristics of an Effective Vision Statement:
- Aspirational: It should present an idealized future state.
- Concise: Easy to remember and communicate.
- Clear: Understandable to all stakeholders.
- Future-Oriented: Focused on long-term goals.
- Inspiring: Motivates and energizes.
A well-crafted vision statement helps to align the organization, its employees, and other stakeholders around a common purpose. It answers the fundamental question: "What do we want to become?"
