Minute Taking

Minute Taking Course Outline:

Why take minutes? – Minutes are a record of a meeting but why are they necessary? This module increases understanding by examining the role and function of minutes.

Preparation for minute taking - There are a number of things that can happen before a meeting that will help the minute taking to be less stressful. This module examines what these are and how they can be used.

Templates for minutes - There is a selection of useful templates that can be used when recording speech, this module examines some of these.

Methods of note taking – including speedwriting – Improving speedwriting techniques can alleviate the pressure in fast moving meetings. Participants will be taught the basics and have the opportunity to try it out.

Listening, understanding and writing – It is not always the case that minute takers will understand fully the content of a meeting. This session examines how to make sense of the process and not get worried about the lack of understanding of the content.

Identifying and selecting the main points - A practical exercise which enables participants to practice selecting the main points of a discussion or meeting.

Standard formats and styles – This module looks at the elements of formats and styles. Some organisations have a house style for minute taking, and this would be an opportunity to practice looking at this and using it to write up notes or minutes.

Comprehension – There are numerous standard phrases and words that are common to minute taking. This session looks at these and examines a range of words and phrases that can be used in order to be more precise with meanings and avoid repetition.

Minute taking practice – This minute taking session gives participants an opportunity to practice using the minute taking skills developed on the course so far.

Writing up minutes practice – Following on from the previous session, this module allows participants to practice writing up a set of minutes, using some of the skills learnt so far.

Personal development planning – extending learning back into the workplace.

Feedback
“The trainer helped lots with confidence, which is a lot of my problem. Also gave me various options and ways of capturing info.”
“The course met all my needs – it gave good hints and tips that will improve my minutes.”
“I thoroughly enjoyed the session and am looking forward to putting it into practice.”
“Being self-taught surprised me how much I already do correctly – but I still picked up lots of good tips for minutes especially more formal meetings.”