What Do You Call a Person Who Takes Minutes in a Meeting?

The person who takes minutes in a meeting is commonly called a minute taker or meeting secretary. In formal settings, especially within organizations or corporate boards, this role is often referred to as the secretary or recording secretary.

Role of the Minute Taker

The minute taker is responsible for capturing a written record of what transpires during a meeting. This includes documenting discussions, decisions, action items, and any official motions passed. Accurate minutes serve as an essential reference for future meetings and ensure organizational transparency and accountability.

Key Responsibilities of a Minute Taker

• Recording the date, time, and location of the meeting
• Listing attendees and noting any absentees
• Documenting the agenda and the main points of discussion
• Capturing decisions made and actions assigned
• Reviewing and distributing the minutes post-meeting

Common Titles for This Role

Title	Typical Usage
Minute Taker	General term for anyone recording minutes
Meeting Secretary	Used in formal or recurring meeting settings
Recording Secretary	Common in boards or official committees
Administrative Assistant	When the task is part of a broader admin role

Best Practices for Taking Meeting Minutes

• Use a consistent template to ensure clarity and completeness
• Focus on key points, not verbatim transcripts
• Clarify any uncertain information during the meeting
• Submit the minutes promptly for review and approval

Conclusion

The individual responsible for documenting a meeting’s content is called the minute taker, meeting secretary, or recording secretary, depending on the context. Their role is vital to maintaining accurate records, facilitating follow-ups, and ensuring organizational continuity.

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