The ICRM was incorporated in 1975 to provide standards by which individuals involved in records and information management could be “measured, accredited and recognized according to criteria of experience and capability”. They partner with organizations whose core mission is to advance the field through education, advocacy, and professional development opportunities.

ICRM Certification
The ICRM has two primary certifications, the original Certified Record Manager (CRM) and the Certified Records Analyst (CRA), established in 2017. These certifications provide a strong foundation of the knowledge and skills needed in the Records and Information Governance profession. There are six exam parts for the CRM, including five 100-question multiple choice tests (Parts 1-5) and a written exam (Part 6). To receive the CRA designation an individual must pass Exam Parts 2-4.

What is the ICRM Mentoring Program?
The Mentoring Program underwent a significant change in 2019. Historically mentors had been available for Exam Part 6 (the written exam), but there were no resources for individuals for Exam Parts 1-5. In an effort to provide more support for certification candidates the ICRM Board encouraged the creation of a mentoring program that would work with candidates for all of the exam sections.

A committee was established to address this need by providing resources for candidates studying for the exam, as well as creating a Mentor Program for all exam parts. This program is guided by the ICRM Mentoring Committee and there is no cost associated with participating in the program. Mentors assist candidates by:

• Sharing familiarity with ICRM Exam processes and procedures 
• Sharing successes and challenges in RIM in alignment with the CRM exam outline and key knowledge areas
• Providing information on resources available to assist in preparing for exams
• Assisting in determining mentee’s areas of strength and weaknesses
• Providing guidance, feedback, and discussion on the annotated outlines and practice questions
• Discussing test taking strategies
• Cheering candidates on and celebrating their successes!

For information about upcoming workshops and exam resources, including how to apply as a candidate, visit  Applying for The Examination | Institute of Certified Records Managers (icrm.org). If you are already a candidate and would like more information about the Mentoring Program, please check out the information found at Exam Preparation Resources | Institute of Certified Records Managers (icrm.org).

About the Author
Deborah Robbins is the Chair of the ICRM Mentoring Committee and works as a contractor for the Department of Energy Legacy Management program under the auspices of TFE, Inc.