Join this workshop for a full-day treatment of the challenges facing the minute-taker at one-on-one, private group, public and in camera meetings. From traditional round table meetings to videoconferences, meetings give opportunity for minute-takers to provide valuable service to groups in helping them identify tasks, focus on the point at hand and come to clear actions. Be aware of the role of the minute-taker in relation to the Chair under parliamentary procedure, as well as security and legal issues concerning minutes. Get the record right!

Morning Topics

• Importance Meetings and Minutes
• Being the Minute-taker: Working with the Chair
• Common Problems with Meetings
• The Solutions: Seating Arrangements, Other Physical Considerations Listening Skills for Minute-takers
• Special Consideration: Confidentiality: note-taking practice
• Levels of Minutes: Detailed, Summary, Notes
• Special Considerations: public meetings, in camera meetings, legal issues
• Correct Style in Minutes
• Analyzing Samples of Minutes: group exercise

Afternoon Topics

Taking minutes is far from the menial task it is often considered. Minutes are the official record of the actions of the group. Members often refer to past to deal with issues, and legal concerns add special weight to the quality of an accurate record. In government settings, accountability calls for clear accounts of all actions. Excellent minutes promote and protect a group.