Manifesto

What’s your company’s manifesto? I know you are probably sitting there saying - “what in the world are you talking about Matthew? Manifestos? What in the world does that have to do with my business?”

A lot actually. I was listening to an audio book and the author suggested that every company should have a manifesto. What a great idea. I’ll be working on the Best Solutions’ manifesto this week, won’t you join me?

See, manifestos don’t have to be just political or religious documents stating a set of principles or beliefs. Coupled with a vision, mission and core values, a manifesto is a great addition to any business.

One key obstacle you might be identifying right now is this - how do you write one?

Well, you can do a quick Google search to see what others suggest if you like. Here’s the summary of what I found that seemed to be a consistent theme.

First, it’s got to be something you feel strongly about. Think about it - you are writing a document for all the world to see. You better have something important to say and feel passionate enough about it to share with the world. A quick Wikipedia search on the term ‘manifesto’ revealed some well known examples: The Declaration of Independence, the Communist Manifesto and the Contract With America are just three of the dozens listed. I don’t think anyone can argue that those are three documents that made an impact.

Second, be clear and concise. Say what you have to say. Manifestos are not full-length novels that go into great detail - they are a set of beliefs that are clear and concise.

Third, be bold. The purpose of a manifesto is to tell the world about your cause, to start a movement, to change the status quo, etc. Think about those documents I mentioned before - they all boldly call for a different way of doing things.

There is no rule that says manifestos are reserved for political movements. You and your business are a movement. You and I and everyone else with a business are all in the same business when you think about it - we are in the business of change. Every entrepreneur is looking for a new way to do something, a way to change the process, to reduce costs, improve revenue, change the way people shop, and on and on.

So what’s the cause that your business takes up? How does this cause affect and inspire others? How are you and your business going to change society, or our nation, or your state, or even just your community? What’s your entrepreneurial manifesto?
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