The What, Why, and How of Writing a Business Manifesto

Business is personal. And one of the best ways to personalize your business copywriting is by writing a business manifesto. We can help. Content writing for businesses is what Bizwrite does best. In today’s spotlights series, we’ll cover everything you need to know about creating a business manifesto for your organization. Read on to learn:

• What a business manifesto is.
• Why you should write a business manifesto.
• How to write a business manifesto.

What is a business manifesto?

The dictionary defines “manifesto” as a written statement declaring publicly the intentions, motives, or views of its issuer. Let’s break that down a bit.

• A manifesto is public. Your business manifesto is not a closely held secret known only by your stakeholders. It is a public declaration of your company’s values.
• A manifesto states your intentions. It does not merely declare what goods and services you’ll provide. A business manifesto says how you provide those services, what you emphasize, and how you conduct business. A business manifesto demonstrates your focus, commitment, and integrity.
• A manifesto names your motivation. It tells the world why you do what you do and why you do business the way you do.

Why does my business need a manifesto?

A manifesto guides a business in its decision-making. Writing a business manifesto forces your team to narrow its focus and decide what is most important to them. A well crafted business manifesto motivates and inspires your team. When your team faces a critical decision, your manifesto is a reminder of your public commitment to your principles.

A business manifesto also shows customers what you stand for and helps them feel connected to your company. Conscientious shoppers aren’t only concerned with finding good deals. They want to know they’re supporting good companies. How will they know yours is a good company unless you tell them?

How to write a business manifesto:

Decide what matters most to your business. Get together with your team and have a brainstorm session. Here are some questions to consider:

• What motivates you?
• What is most important to you?
• What are you committed to?
• What are you sacrificing for?
• Where is your company headed?

Start with a slogan, and then explain what you mean by it. Here is an example from Mars, Incorporated:

Think of all that is communicated by this pithy slogan. It says that Mars is optimistic about the future, and that they accept responsibility for their role in shaping it. Read Mars’ full business manifesto and see if you believe what they say about doing business.

Declare your values succinctly. A political manifesto might be a lengthy treatise, but a business manifesto should be short and to the point. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to put it on a poster.

We can help you craft your business manifesto.

We can’t tell you what your company believes and values, but we can give you some ideas and help craft your message. We also offer a variety of other services. We specialize in business copywriting and content writing for businesses. Contact us if you want help with how to write a business manifesto, or with any other content you may need.