Most workplace communication is written, and most of it is read quickly on a phone or between meetings. Messages that bury the request, use unnecessary jargon or contain errors prompt follow-up questions, delays and sometimes disputes. Meeting minutes carry extra weight, since they become the formal record of what was agreed and who is responsible.

The programme begins with the basics of effective writing: knowing the purpose and the reader, organising ideas before drafting, choosing simple words and building short, correct sentences. Participants then apply those habits to the documents they handle most, from emails and letters to briefing notes and reports. Editing and proofreading techniques ensure a final check is part of every routine.

The remaining sessions concentrate on the secretary's role in meetings, including preparing the agenda and papers, listening for decisions, structuring notes and writing minutes in a neutral, concise style. Participants practise on recorded and role-played meetings and receive individual feedback on their drafts, so they return to work with templates and confidence they can use immediately.

Participants will be able to:

• Plan a document around its purpose, reader and required action.
• Write in plain, correct and professional English, using appropriate tone and structure.
• Draft effective emails, letters, memos and short reports.
• Edit and proofread their own and others' writing for errors and clarity.
• Prepare meeting notices, agendas and supporting papers.
• Take structured notes during a meeting and distinguish decisions from discussion.
• Write accurate minutes and action lists, and distribute and file them correctly.

This course is suitable for anyone who writes for work or records meetings, such as:

• Executive assistants and personal assistants
• Secretaries and administrative officers
• Office managers and front office supervisors
• Board, committee and company secretaries
• Junior managers and team coordinators
• Programme assistants in NGOs and development projects
• Records and registry staff
• Recent graduates and interns entering formal workplaces

By the end, participants will have:

• A reusable planning checklist for any piece of business writing.
• Model emails, letters and report outlines for common situations.
• A personal proofreading routine for catching typical errors.
• Agenda and minutes templates they can adapt to their organisation.
• An action tracker format that makes follow-up simple.
• Minutes they have drafted and had reviewed by the facilitator.

Sessions are hands-on, and participants write throughout. The approach includes:

• Short explanations followed immediately by writing practice
• Before-and-after editing of realistic office documents
• Role-played and recorded meetings for live note-taking
• Pair and group review of drafts
• Templates and checklists for use back in the workplace

Attending every session and completing the writing and minute-taking exercises earns a CPD-accredited Certificate of Completion from Vision Reach Global Consultancy.