Minute-taking: Should I write that down?
You're taking minutes in a meeting when the conversation suddenly goes off topic. Or two attendees begin to argue. To what extent should you capture the conversation?
"The problem with side conversations is this: Sometimes people just chitchat and say nothing of value, but other times they say something important," says Joan Burge, founder and CEO of Office Dynamics.
Burge offers these tips for turning meeting conversations into a valuable road map — even when the conversation is difficult to track.
Follow these streamlined, easy-to-implement templates for taking action minutes...
Situation: The conversation goes off topic.
What to do: Listen for an action, a clarification or a requirement.
"For example, this comes up when I'm working with a new client," says Burge. "I'm on the phone with them, and they are rattling off tons of information to me. So I'm always listening for key words and phrases that have to do with an action or viewpoint."
Situation: Two attendees begin to argue.
What to do: What you'll need to capture isn't "Bob was really upset about the new project," explains Burge. "Rather, you should be capturing Bob's comment about the project: that he feels it's going to be too big of an investment, or that the company won't get a return on its money."
Don't wait another minute to order Effective Minute-Taking: Tips to Improve Your Meeting-Recording Skills. Now you can take flawless minutes with confidence. Get ready for the accolades because they're coming your way. Order your copy today!
Situation: A subgroup is having a side conversation.
What to do: Say something like "Excuse me, but is this really good information that I should be capturing?" or "Do you have something you would like to share with me that I need to write down?"
Otherwise, you won't know whether they're saying something important.
Situation: Attendees are using an acronym you don't understand.
What to do: Ask the person who is using the term if he could please repeat it or spell it for you. If it's an acronym, ask, "What does that acronym stand for? I need to put that in the meeting minutes."
Burge says, "It just takes courage to speak up. You just have to speak, and it's your tone of voice and your volume that convey confidence."
Be the Superstar Everyone Appreciates!
Your role as the minute-taker cannot be underestimated. It is vital to the progress and profitability of your company.
To help you improve your skills and your value to the company, all you need is Effective Minute-Taking in your professional library. Your colleagues will instantly notice the improvement in their minutes. Being the best at this vital task may lead to promotions and other career-advancing opportunities you won't want to miss.
This expert resource can help you achieve your personal career goals even faster.
Download your copy NOW! Don't wait another moment to be without this valuable, career-boosting information. You can download a copy of Effective Minute-Taking: Tips to Improve Your Meeting-Recording Skills instantly. Or we'll be happy to send you a hard copy in the mail. Whatever works best for you. Get your copy today!
No comments:
Post a Comment