- [Narrator] Note-taking isn't just for students.
(vinyl scratching)
In this video
we'll share note-taking tips for working professionals
and recommend some office appropriate supplies.
Be sure to like and subscribe to our channel,
if you find this video helpful.
Consider your note-taking system.
The way you took notes
as a student may not work for you as a professional.
School notes are meant for information retention
whereas work notes are more action-oriented.
We suggest establishing a consistent note-taking system
that focuses on goals and tasks.
Additionally, as a professional,
office supplies that are reliable
but also appropriate for work are a must.
Whether you're a new hire or part of the C-suite,
you wanna be taken seriously.
Once you're familiar with your office's culture,
you can decide if bringing in
"My Neighbor Totoro" themed stationery is a good idea.
We've compiled some note-taking systems
and supplies that you can mix and match to fit your needs.
Color-coding.
Color-coding is great for drawing attention
to important tasks and deadlines.
Designate brighter colors to due dates and urgent questions,
and more subtle colors to action items or key takeaways.
We suggest using the sleek,
Uni Jetstream 4&1 Metal Multi Pen,
which features four ink colors
and a mechanical pencil component.
The Jetstream is a tried and true favorite,
due to its low viscosity ink
which writes smoothly and dries quickly.
While a color-coding system can work
in virtually any notebook,
we like the Leuchtturm1917 Hardcover Notebook.
It has an index for logging your meetings and notes.
The graph and line versions also have a dedicated space
at the top of each page for writing in the date.
Diagramming.
If you're a visual thinker, consider diagramming.
You can map out tasks, brainstorm concepts
and draw out your ideas, as opposed
to seeing all of the information outlined in a linear way.
Professionals who diagram can use
a Midori MD Frame Notebook Journal
which has plenty of space
for mind mapping and regular notes alike.
It includes stickers for labeling the spine,
small numbered index tabs
for indicating different projects or important meetings
and a ribbon marker for keeping your place.
Pair the notebook
with a Pentel Orenz Nero Mechanical Pencil.
Its automatic lead advancement system extends the lead
every time you lift the pencil from the page
and its protective lead sleeve minimizes breakage.
Because its barrel
and grip section are made of one seamless piece,
you don't need to worry
about the pencil rattling and distracting others
during a meeting.
Shorthand and templating.
To save time, create your own shorthand
for commonly used words or phrases
and store it in your notebook on Hightide Sticky Tabs.
These repositionable sticky notes can be moved
from one meeting to the next
without damaging the paper underneath.
They can also be used as page flags
for your current notes or older ones you need to reference.
Follow a general format that is easy to remember
and provides space for all the pertinent information.
The A5 Special Memo Maruman Mnemosyne Notebook
features two boulder lines that divide the page
into three main sections,
making it easy to organize meeting notes.
Here's our template that you can adapt to your preferences.
At the top, fill in the date and title of the meeting.
Write down the names of the participants
in case you have a question later
and need to speak with them.
Use the first section for the meeting agenda,
open items or any questions you'd like addressed.
Allocate the second section for key points
and the third section for next steps
and to-dos for yourself or your team.
Those who prefer having a pre-made format
can try this Laconic Style Notebook
which covers 30 meetings, each with a two page spread.
We recommend using a Parker Jotter Ballpoint Pen
as its streamlined pen body exudes class
and its Quinkflow ink provides a smooth
consistent writing experience.
We know ballpoint ink isn't for everyone though.
So those who like gel pens can check out
the Pentel Energel Philography.
It uses the same bold quick drying ink
found in the standard Energel line.
Make your notes actionable.
After a meeting, review your notes
and start planning out next steps.
Here are some tips
for what you can do after and in between meetings.
Get the information you need before starting tasks.
If you have a question
or need clarification on a talking point during a meeting
make a note and broach it when it's time for discussion.
If you aren't able to ask your question
be sure to speak to the relevant team member
as soon as possible while everything is fresh in your mind.
At the end of a meeting, take time to confirm action items.
This ensures that everyone is on the same page.
It can feel bothersome to ask a lot of questions
but having all the necessary information
before you start working will not only help you
but everyone you work with.
Prioritize your action items.
Right after a meeting,
transfer the action items you've accumulated
to a Midori Stand Memo Pad.
Your notes are out of sight and out of mind
if you don't pick up your notebook until the next meeting
so having a visual reminder
on your desk will keep you focused on your tasks.
These memo pads are available in different formats
such as to-do lists, weekly schedule, and hourly schedule.
They're super cute.
You will love having one on your desk, I assure you.
Set mini goals.
Completing small, achievable goals helps build momentum
for accomplishing bigger goals later.
Keep track of your progress using
a Gakken Write White+ Whiteboard Notebook.
Its plastic sheets protect your writing
and also act as another writing surface.
Erase the writing on the plastic sheet
or whiteboard depending on how your goals change.
The Write White+ includes two blank pages,
three graph pages and one to-do page
with lines for 36 tasks.
Do you have any note taking tips for professionals?
Let us know in the comments.
You can find all of the products linked
in the description below and at JetPens.com.
The place for pen and stationery lovers.
I can't help it, I ate fast today, here we go.
Shake up the office.
Bring in your merch.
Just very slowly.
Bring one at a time every day until you have a personality.
Oh, you like "Princess Mononoke"?
Yes, it's my favorite movie.
Wow, I never knew.
Yes, now you have something to talk about
at the water cooler.
You have to figure out if Karen
from HR is going to pull you in and say,
"Hey, this isn't allowed.
I will not allow No-Face in this office."
And you say, "Karen, I'm doing my absolute best right now.
Please, Karen, my Kuru Toga is not bothering anybody."
Thanks for watching.
You did it.
So proud of you.
(calm music)