The minutes are a factual record of business. Do not include: Opinions or judgments: Leave out statements like "a well done report" or "a heated discussion." Criticism or accolades: Criticism of members, good or bad, should not be included unless it takes the form of an official motion.
2. What should be excluded in the meeting minutes? Avoid switching tenses in your writing. Avoid recording the debate; just record the outcome. Avoid making personal observations or opinions. Avoid verbatim quotes. Avoid letting the meeting move on if you're confused.
In addition to specifying the date, time and location of the meeting, special meeting notices should make note of all agenda items. Unless the bylaws indicate something different, board members should only be discussing the business that was stated in the notice for the special meeting.
Content of Notice A proper meeting notice should include: Date, Time, and Venue: Clear details on when and where the meeting will take place. Purpose of the Meeting: A brief description of the meeting's objectives. Agenda: An outline of topics to be discussed; this helps attendees prepare for the meeting.
What to Include in Meeting Minutes Date and time the meeting happened. Names of attendees, as well as absent participants. Acceptance of, or amendments made to, the previous meeting's minutes. Decisions made regarding each item on the agenda, such as: Activities undertaken or agreed upon. Next steps. Outcomes of elections.
In contrast, a special board meeting is a meeting that is not scheduled well in advance and is called by someone – authorized either under the law or the organization's bylaws – for a special purpose.
Personal opinions and comments Meeting minutes should be objective and impartial. Avoid including personal opinions, judgments, or comments made by attendees, as these can skew the record and undermine the credibility of the minutes. Focus on recording objective facts, discussions, and decisions.
The minutes should include the point that was discussed and the decision that was reached. Avoid making personal observations or opinions. Don't make your own comments. Stick to just the facts.
The notice must provide directors with the date, time, and location of the meeting. Although technically, the purpose of the meeting does not have to be provided, it is generally a good idea to include an agenda or similar information so directors know what to expect and why it is important to attend.