Finding a company's mission statement can sometimes seem like mission impossible. Some companies make their mission statements available on the company website. Others don't. Some companies might use the descriptor mission statement while others might use values or vision statement. The important habit to keep in mind when you are seeking a company mission statement is persistence. Follow the tips on each tab until you find the elusive statement. It might take some digging, but you'll get there.
The simplest way to find a mission statement is to simply use a search engine such as Google. Use the company's name with "mission statement: in parentheses.
This is where things get tricky. Your results can come from many sources, but you need a result that comes directly from your company.
If the URLs don't reflect the company, beware. It may be time to move on to Tip 1.
Make sure you are on the correct company webpage. Many businesses have multiple websites for different products or services. Some of the larger international companies may have different sites for the regions they serve. Some companies may have similar names to others, so you want to make sure that you're starting in the right place.
One way you can make sure to be on the right website is to access the company's profile in Business Source Elite. The right web address will appear on "Key Facts" page in the Marketline Company Profile. Here's how to check.
1. Access Business Source Elite
2. On the top blue toolbar, select Company Profiles and enter the name of the company you're interested in and select Browse.
3. Select the MarketLine Report link under PDF Complete Report column.
4. Scroll down to the Key Facts section in the report for the correct URL for the company.
Finding the correct website is essential to your search for a company's mission statement. Your mission is on target now!
Now that you are on the correct website, you might be asking yourself, "Where's the mission statement?" There are no hard and fast rules for how, where, or if a company posts its mission statement. It's time for you to really start digging. Here are some ways to search.
1. Look for a link to "About Us," "Corporate Information,", Investor Relations," "Company Information," or similar terms. This information is typically on a separate section of the website. This is where you will need to be a detective. The links to these sections mat not be obvious. Be sure to look at the top and bottom of the sie for the company's fine fine.
2. Explore the site. Some sites have "About Us" AND "Investor Information." The mission statement (or vision statement) may in one, both, or neither of these places. Look at dropdown menus or links to other pages.
3. Use the site's search tool if it has one. Search for mission or vision.
Prepare yourself. The company you are interested in may not include a mission statement on its site. In fact, your company may not have a mission statement, at all.
If you've exhausted yourself clicking here and clicking there, just ask the company. Most companies have a Contact Us page where you can get an email address or telephone number to get more information. Politely asking for the information may just be the easiest way to get it, so don't be shy.
After I performed numerous searches on the Apple Inc website, I reached out through the Investor Relations Contact Us page. Here is what I learned:
