What's it like working in data and records management?

Do you sigh with satisfaction when you’re able to put your hand on that one piece of missing information? Do you enjoy the thorough and intricate organisation of resources in a public library? If so, you might be a good fit for data and records management. The VERCIDA jobs database offers great roles with companies that take diversity and inclusion seriously.

Data and records management specialists look after the physical and digital information held by an organisation. They help firms keep their use of data in line with legal compliance and company policy. And, as information becomes crucial to our economy, data and records provide a source of value for an organisation.

The right qualifications

Being well organised and detail orientated is a good start if you want to get into data and records management. Because this role is so important to the wellbeing of a firm, most hiring decision makers also look for qualifications. It’s therefore a good idea to have a university degree. The field isn't necessarily important, but you'll want to come out with honours. If you want to try another route, look for work as a records assistant. This is a chance to learn on the job. After you’ve notched up a few years’ experience, many employers offer opportunities for advancement and training.

Know the law and be prepared for changes

As the European data protection rules, known as GDPR, come into place, it’s clear they've upended records management. For example, it's no longer correct to keep all the records you have for a long time. GDPR calls for data to be securely destroyed after it stops being used for purposes for which it was obtained. This sounds woolly, and it is. Every type of organisation, from healthcare to finance, uses data differently. A good records manager will combine a precise understanding of the law with a deep knowledge of their business.

A challenging and truly necessary role

But the job is so necessary that well-qualified professionals will always find work available. In one 2017 study, only three percent of companies met basic standards of quality for their data! If you're ready to take your next step in a data and records management career, look in VERCIDA's jobs database.