Are purpose and mission the same thing? Here’s where the differences lie.
It’s a common misconception that purpose and mission are interchangeable. In truth, they represent two different things with very different outcomes – and your organisation needs both.
Purpose is the heart of your organisation. It’s the unique difference you’re making in the world; the reason why your organisation exists beyond any profit margin or result. In the words of Zach Mercurio PhD, Modern People Advisory Board Member, “a company’s job is to justify that reason every day”.
Mission is the transactional part. It represents what you do, and how you do that thing in your own unique way. It’s a simple but specific description that almost rolls off the tongue. When people ask us about our work, we typically share our mission. With coaching, we learn to share our purpose first, because it’s the real reason our organisation exists.
What does it mean to be purpose-led?
Organisations that embrace their purpose in all parts of their work are purpose-led. They take their purpose statement off the wall, and weave it into their services, products, practices, policies, reward systems, and more. They inspire their people to connect to their own purposes, and realise how they can live their purposes at that organisation.
Purpose-led organisations are full of purposeful people. That’s why people are more engaged, motivated and fulfilled. They understand how their work benefits others, and are able to realise the specific way everyday tasks contribute to the bigger picture. They have meaningful work.
An organisational purpose is worth committing to, an authentic calling that involves personal vision and inspires self-transcendence.
Some of our favourite purpose statements.
There are plenty that we love. Here’s a handful of them:
"To empower people and create economic opportunity for all.” - eBay
"To bring the world within reach.” - Expedia
"Nourishing families so they can flourish and thrive.” - Kelloggs.
