Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Program Development • Philanthropic Support • Grant Compliance

Mission Statement

Term from Nonprofit Organizations industry explained for recruiters

A Mission Statement is a short, clear description that explains why an organization exists and what it aims to achieve. It's like a organization's north star that guides all their activities and decisions. In nonprofits, the mission statement helps explain to donors, volunteers, and staff what the organization stands for and what change they want to make in the world. When appearing in resumes, it often shows that someone has experience in creating, reviewing, or using mission statements to guide organizational planning and communication.

Examples in Resumes

Led team workshop to revise organization's Mission Statement to better reflect current goals

Aligned program objectives with organization's Mission Statement and strategic plan

Developed departmental goals based on Mission Statement and core values

Typical job title: "Nonprofit Professionals"

Also try searching for:

Executive Director Nonprofit Manager Program Director Development Director Strategic Planning Manager Communications Director Nonprofit Consultant

Where to Find Nonprofit Professionals

Professional Associations

Online Communities

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you lead a mission statement revision process with multiple stakeholders?

Expected Answer: Should discuss inclusive process involving board, staff, and community members, methods for gathering input, facilitating consensus, and ensuring the final statement reflects organizational values while being clear and actionable.

Q: How do you ensure programs and activities align with an organization's mission statement?

Expected Answer: Should explain process of using mission statement as evaluation tool for new initiatives, creating program metrics that connect to mission, and regular review of activities against mission focus.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How would you communicate the mission statement to different audiences?

Expected Answer: Should discuss adapting message for different stakeholders (donors, volunteers, beneficiaries) while maintaining consistency, and using mission statement in various communications materials.

Q: How do you use a mission statement in daily decision-making?

Expected Answer: Should explain practical examples of using mission statement to guide program decisions, resource allocation, and partnership opportunities.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What makes a good mission statement?

Expected Answer: Should mention clarity, brevity, inspiration, and specific purpose. Should be able to explain difference between mission and vision statements.

Q: How would you explain your organization's mission statement to a new volunteer?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate ability to break down mission statement into simple, understandable terms and connect it to concrete activities.