Certifiable: Crank Up Your Confidence and Career with Complementary Certifications
In the fields of Records and Information Management (RIM) and Information Governance (IG), professionals are faced with a dynamic but increasingly complex landscape. As the volume and variety of data grows exponentially, so too do the challenges and opportunities for those tasked with managing it. In this context, the intersection of professional development and certifications becomes paramount, serving as a compass to guide practitioners through the ever-evolving terrain of RIM.
The Significance of Ongoing Professional Growth
The RIM and IG spheres are in a state of constant change, driven by technological advancements, regulatory shifts, and evolving organizational priorities. Professionals in this field must embrace adaptability and agility to succeed. Continuous learning and skill development are essential for remaining relevant and effective in this fast-paced environment. Practitioners must stay informed about emerging technologies, understand evolving compliance requirements, and master best practices in data governance. Committing to lifelong learning is crucial for excelling in these demanding roles.
Identifying the Right Certifications
Certifications are a cornerstone of professional development across industries. They serve as tangible proof of expertise, validating an individual’s skills and knowledge in a specific field. Earning the right credentials not only enhances career prospects but also demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and staying current in an ever-evolving professional landscape. By selecting the appropriate certifications, professionals can strengthen their qualifications and position themselves as trusted experts in their areas of practice.
Among the most recognized RIM-focused certifications are the Information Governance Professional (IGP), the Certified Information Professional (CIP), and the Certified Records Manager (CRM). Each certification represents a distinct set of competencies and expertise, catering to various aspects of the RIM spectrum.
Selecting the right certification requires careful consideration of individual career goals and aspirations. Whether aspiring to leadership roles in information governance, specializing in records management, or broadening one’s skillset to encompass multiple disciplines within RIM, aligning certification choices with professional objectives is essential. By identifying the most relevant certifications, professionals can chart a clear path toward career advancement and personal growth.
Supplementing Your Skillset with RIM-Adjacent Certifications
In addition to RIM-specific certifications, professionals can augment their skill sets with credentials that are RIM-adjacent or complementary in nature. These certifications, such as the Certified Archivist (CA), Project Management Professional (PMP), Scrum Master (PSM-1), Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP), Certified E-Discovery Specialist (CEDS), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) offer specialized expertise that intersects with various facets of RIM and IG practices.
By diversifying their certifications, professionals not only broaden their knowledge base but also enhance their professional versatility. For example, a RIM practitioner with expertise in eDiscovery or information security is better equipped to address multifaceted challenges and opportunities within the evolving landscape of information management.
Strategies for Skill Integration
Earning a certification is just the beginning. Maximizing its value requires deliberate application in the workplace. One effective strategy is aligning newly certified skills with organizational needs by identifying projects or challenges where they can be applied. Additionally, sharing insights through presentations, training sessions, or knowledge-sharing forums can reinforce learning while demonstrating expertise. Seeking leadership roles, volunteering for cross-functional initiatives, or contributing to industry discussions can also help showcase and solidify certification-based competencies. Ultimately, the key is to remain proactive—continuously finding ways to integrate and expand certified knowledge to drive professional growth.
Organizational Value
Certifications add organizational value by fostering strategic thinking and informed decision-making, improving cross-functional collaboration, and driving innovation. Certified professionals bring fresh perspectives that enhance efficiency, streamline processes, and contribute to sustainable growth. Additionally, organizations benefit from a workforce with up-to-date industry knowledge, positioning them for a competitive advantage. Investing in certifications also strengthens employee retention and engagement, as professionals feel more empowered and valued in their roles.
Enhancing Networking Opportunities
Networking plays a pivotal role in the professional development of RIM practitioners. Beyond acquiring certifications, building connections, and fostering relationships within the RIM community and beyond is essential for staying informed, sharing best practices, and exploring collaborative opportunities. Strategies such as attending industry conferences, joining professional associations, and participating in online forums enable professionals to expand their networks, exchange ideas, and stay abreast of emerging trends and developments in the field.
Conclusion
The pursuit of professional development and certifications is a journey of continuous learning and growth. By embracing the significance of ongoing professional growth, identifying the right certifications, aligning new skills with organization needs, and enhancing networking opportunities, RIM and IG practitioners can navigate the maze of professional development with confidence and clarity. As the landscape of RIM continues to evolve, the commitment to lifelong learning remains the cornerstone of success in these dynamic fields.
Acknowledgement from the Author:
This article is based on insights shared during a panel presentation at ARMA InfoCon. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to my fellow panelists—Bruce Ahrendt, Brent Gatewood, Kevin Parker, and Andrew Ysasi—whose thoughtful contributions, expertise, and perspectives helped shape the discussion and enrich the content presented here.
About the Author
- Kimberly Johnson, CRM, CA, PSM, PMP, is a senior RIM consultant at NEOSTEK, specializing in implementing RIM best practices and compliance strategies. She has led key initiatives in data governance, disaster recovery, and eDiscovery. Kimberly shares her expertise through publications and presentations, reflecting her commitment to advancing the RIM profession. She is especially passionate about mentoring others pursuing professional certification.
