When the Walt Disney Co. was created in 1923, it had a simple vision. The company wanted to be the “world’s leading producers and providers of entertainment and information.” Furthermore, it sought to “develop the most creative, innovative and profitable entertainment experiences and related products in the world.”
The core ideology of Disney was to “bring happiness to millions.” It achieved that mission by imprinting magical and inspiring experiences on children that stuck around well into their adulthood. Disney’s vision has led it to be one of the biggest entertainment brands in the world for almost a century.
The important thing here is that Disney’s success has come from the power of its vision. A company’s success depends on having a solid vision for the future — and employing an engaged team that is dedicated to making that vision a reality. A clear vision statement helps companies run more efficiently because it keeps everyone on the same page.
To achieve this vision, employees need to strongly align with their company’s values and mission. Gallup’s 2016 report, How Millennials Want to Work and Live, found that only 40 percent of millennial employees surveyed felt strongly connected to their company’s mission. This disconnect is sure to cause a lack of direction and create listless employees disengaged from their work.
There are many ways we can help you but here are a few to give you a flavour:
1. Reinforce the company vision by tying it to team and individual goals.
2. Promote the company vision by always making sure it’s visible.
3. Share success stories that realise the company vision.
Achievers’ 2015 North America Workforce report found that 60 percent of employees didn’t know their company’s vision. This is alarming considering the positive impact a vision statement has on the workforce.
Use storytelling to share your vision statement with employees. This is especially effective when companies share their employees’ success stories with the entire team.