minutes made easy

Anyone can be called on to take minutes and most people get ‘thrown in the deep end’.  It is a skill that many assume a secretary or administrator has, but this is often not the case as even secretarial colleges seldom teach this useful skill.  Many committees do not have the luxury of having a someone to take notes, so the task falls to a member of the group. It is difficult to write as well as contribute and few people know what to look for when taking the minutes. This course gives delegates the skills and confidence to take relevant notes and to present them as useful minutes.

Course content
	The difference between the three styles of agenda and which is appropriate for your meetings.
	Ways of preparing for a meeting to save time and stress.
	Techniques for coping with common problems at the meeting (eg not understanding, minuting argument, concentrating, recognising actions)
	How to take fast and accurate notes without shorthand or speedwriting.
	How to recognise the relevant points and note them accurately.
	Tips for presenting the minutes for a professional impression.
	Answers to common questions on the wording of minutes (eg tense, person, use of names).
	Techniques for structuring your notes into a logical summary.
	How to encourage participants to read your minutes and remember their actions.
	The difference between action, summary and verbatim and the uses of each style.

Who should attend?
Anyone who is required to take minutes, whether as dedicated minute-taker or as a participant who has to take on the role. Shorthand is not required!

Method
A mix of syndicate exercises and discussion; practical work involving extracts from meetings.

Administration
Duration: one day (usually 9.30-4.30)
Breaks: 11.00 / 2.45
All course handouts, detailed reference notes and stationery are provided
Minimum of six delegates, maximum of twelve.

I was absolutely delighted with the training which has made a real difference to my minute taking – even now, after thirty years of doing them.  I am now relaxed and confident and know I don’t have to flog away and get everything down… our Team Secretary attended with me and she is, at this very moment, taking minutes at a fairly complicated gathering – something she couldn’t have done without your input. PN, (NHS)