Records manager : Training

Employers usually provide training in in-house systems and procedures. They may also fund attendance on external training and distance learning courses, including postgraduate professional qualifications. Most companies only employ between one and four records managers, so the scope for mentoring schemes is limited.

There are no set requirements for continuing professional development (CPD), but information management procedures and legislation change fast, so it is important to update professional skills and knowledge through organisations such as:

• the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP)
• the Society of Archivists
• Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA)
• the Information and Records Management Society (IRMS)  

They provide workshops, seminars, conferences, mentoring schemes, specific CPD schemes and support for specialist groups to enable individuals to share professional issues and practices. Members of the Society of Archivists  receive regular publications and are encouraged to undertake the Registration Scheme. This is the Society’s equivalent to chartered membership, and demonstrates a commitment to professional development.

Training areas include:

• implementing new and current legislation through information management;
• developing services for specific user groups;
• electronic records management;
• budgeting and management issues.

It is common for organisations to employ only one records manager, so you may find yourself in quite an isolated position. Joining relevant groups and societies will not only keep your knowledge up to date and help you share working practices, but is also a great way to network and socialise with others in the same profession.