Which term describes the long-term goal of a company, such as profit maximization or market growth?

The term that best describes the long-term goal of a company, such as profit maximization or market growth, is corporate aim. A corporate aim outlines the overarching aspirations a business has for its future, guiding strategic decisions and actions taken by the company. It serves as a foundational element that drives the organization toward achieving specific targets and provides a vision for stakeholders, making it central to the company's identity and direction.

Corporate strategy, while related, focuses more on the methods and plans developed to achieve those long-term goals. Operational objectives are more short-term and tactical, aimed at achieving specific targets that contribute to broader corporate aims. A business plan is a comprehensive document that outlines various aspects of a business, including its goals and the strategy for achieving them, but it is not itself the long-term goal. Therefore, corporate aim is the most accurate descriptor for those enduring objectives like profit maximization or market growth.