10 Steps to Taking Accurate Meeting Minutes

Business meetings can be very boring, and just about everyone hopes they are never asked to take the minutes. Instead of having one person take minutes at every meeting, it might be best to rotate the duties unless the current person enjoys the task and does a great job. The rules of proper business writing still apply when writing minutes and accuracy is important.{{more}}

1. Record the date and time of the meetings and remember to ask attendees to sign in so there is an accurate record of all attendees

2. Make a note of those who are absent as well

3. The minutes should have a simple header which details the name of the company/organization and an agenda for the meeting

4. Use a voice recorder to record the meeting if possible to ensure notes are accurate

5. Capture the general ideas, decisions and votes. Remember to include the names of who voted for or against ideas and motions

6. Write in short sentences, bulleted points are easier to read

7. Ensure that the minutes are in chronological order, and when possible record the time of each discussion

8. The minute taker should always verify information if they are not sure

9. As the meeting ends, next steps should be recorded and a grammar and spelling check should be done before sending out notes

10. Minutes should be sent out within 24 hours – 1 week depending on the nature of the meeting, and should be mailed or emailed to the appropriate individuals

Karen Hinds – President/CEO
Workplace Success Group LLC
21 West Main Street 4th fl
Waterbury, CT 06702
Phone: 203-757-4103
A CT Winner of the Make Mine a Million Dollar Business award!
Karen@workplacesuccess.com
www.workplacesuccess.com
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