Introduction
This course is designed for anyone who would like to improve their confidence in taking minutes in meetings and increase their knowledge of the responsibilities involved in the role. Whether you’re a new note taker or someone looking to refine your skills, this course is perfect for you.
The primary aim of this course is to help delegates improve their ability to manage meeting minutes efficiently. The course will cover the key elements of minute taking: from preparing before the meeting, to facilitating the meeting, and organising notes effectively after the meeting. You will learn how to structure your note-taking for clarity and efficiency.
This course combines practical exercises with structured lessons to ensure delegates leave with both the knowledge and hands-on experience required for effective minute taking. Interactive sessions and templates are provided to help delegates practice and perfect their skills.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of the course, delegates will be able to:
- Write and distribute meeting minutes confidently.
- Understand best practices to prepare for meetings and write effective minutes.
- Clearly identify your role before, during, and after the meeting.
- Identify positive strategies for listening and summarising key points.
- Handle jargon, technical language, and grammar in a professional manner.
- Identify various methods of minute-taking and organise your materials effectively.
- Learn techniques to identify and highlight important points in clear, concise language.
- Gain the confidence and skills to take accurate and concise minutes.
Course code
SMIT
Location
Varies
Duration
1 day, 0900 – 1630
Price
£115.00
Course Content
-
Effective Meetings:
- Understanding the key elements of a productive meeting.
- The role of a minute taker in facilitating an effective meeting.
Minute Taking Skills:
- Developing and refining core skills in taking minutes.
- Understanding the different styles of minutes and when to use them.
Roles and Responsibilities:
- A detailed overview of your role as a minute taker before, during, and after the meeting.
- The importance of preparation, attendance, and follow-up.
Arranging the Meeting:
- Best practices for setting up and organizing meetings.
- Creating and distributing agendas for clarity and focus.
Agenda Setting:
- How to effectively structure meeting agendas to guide the discussion.
Challenges in the Role:
- Overcoming challenges such as unclear discussions or technical language.
- Dealing with distractions or interruptions during the meeting.
Note Taking:
- Do’s and Don’ts of effective note-taking.
- Example layouts for structuring your notes efficiently.
Attending the Meeting:
- Key things to observe and note during the meeting.
- How to stay focused and organized while taking notes.
Writing Minutes:
- Layout and format of different types of minutes (traditional style, factual style).
- Example of agenda items and how to capture them in minutes.
Practical Exercises:
- Interactive exercises to help delegates practice their skills.
- Templates and tools such as:
- Attendance sheet
- Seating plan
- Charters
- Flowchart
- Techniques for agreeing on actions to take forward after the meeting.
Course Contact Details
If you would like more information or to reserve a place on a course, please get in touch.
Telephone: 01387 734199
E-mail:shortcourses@dumgal.ac.uk
Booking Terms & Conditions | Dumfries & Galloway College (dumgal.ac.uk)
Selling Points
Why Attend:
- Gain Confidence in your ability to take minutes and distribute them.
- Master Key Skills to improve your productivity in meetings.
- Improve Your Efficiency in organising, summarising, and reporting meeting outcomes.