Module 2 discussion topics and questions

Mission and Vision Statements

Why it is important to establish your vision and mission before you begin your administrative internship?

In my opinion, the relevance of having a clear and definite vision and mission in place prior to beginning one's administrative internship cannot be overstated. For purposes of this discussion, a vision will be taken as that mental picture one possesses with regard to a given undertaking. On the other hand, a mission in my view is essentially a proclamation of the key purpose of a particular undertaking. To begin with, a personal vision and mission statement will give me some sense of purpose. It will help me develop the motivation I need to complete my internship. With a clear and concise vision and mission, I am convinced that I will not waver as I pursue that which will be most beneficial to my professional development.

A vision and mission will also enable me to not only be more focused but also more action oriented. By ensuring that I start with the end in mind, the vision and mission statement will ensure that I execute the tasks at hand with commitment and zeal. It will help me move in the right direction as I seek to acquire the relevant skills in the course of my administrative internship. Closely related to this, it is also important to note that a vision and mission statement will also to some extent enable me to identify deviations from my personal goals so that I can take corrective action if need be. From time to time, I could wander in the wrong direction especially with regard to the actual purpose of the internship. Should this happen, a well-developed vision and mission statement is likely to put me back on track.

How do you plan to make your vision and mission statements more than just words?

To ensure that my vision and mission statements are more than just mere words, I will adopt a number of strategies in the course of preparing the said statements. To begin with, I will ensure that my vision and mission statements have outcomes that are not only measurable but also specific. I will also ensure that they are action oriented. This I could do by amongst other things ensuring that any objectives highlighted therein have clear and well-defined deadlines. This way, I will be able to evaluate and judge my own progress over time. Secondly, I will ensure that my vision and mission statements capture aspirations that are achievable. While one could be tempted to develop a vision and mission statement that looks both grand and flowery, it is important to keep in mind the fact that the key purpose of the said statements should be to offer guidance. In the course of developing my vision and mission statement therefore, I will deliberately avoid "oversized" aspirations. This I could do by amongst other things reflecting on what is most important for my advancement not only as a person but also as a professional.