Essential Skills for Collections Management Roles 🗄️

Working in collections management is one of the most rewarding paths in the museum world — it blends organisation, care, research, problem-solving, and a deep respect for the objects we steward. Whether you’re entering the sector or strengthening your practice, certain core skills consistently underpin effective, ethical, and confident collections work.

Here are the essential skills I’ve developed on my own journey so far, and the ones I see shaping successful collections professionals at every level.

🗂️ 1. Attention to Detail (Your Best Friend in Collections Work)

From catalogue numbers to condition notes, tiny details matter.

Whether you’re labelling, rehousing, or cataloguing, accuracy ensures that collections remain traceable, accessible, and preserved for future research.

In roles like my current work with Sheffield Museums Trust and the Yorkshire Natural History Museum, detail-focused documentation is the backbone of every task — from noting pest damage on a taxidermy squirrel to recording metadata for natural history specimens.

📑 2. Strong Documentation & Cataloguing Skills

Collections management is storytelling in a structured, regulated way. Understanding documentation frameworks such as:

• Spectrum 5.1

• ISAD(G)

• DCMI Metadata

…helps ensure that objects are recorded in a consistent, standardised, and accessible format.

If you want to work in collections, start familiarising yourself with these standards early — even a basic working knowledge goes a long way.

🔍 3. Object Handling & Preventive Conservation

Every collection item has unique vulnerabilities — especially natural history material like bones, taxidermy, minerals, and botanical specimens.

Core skills include:

• Safe handling techniques

• Using supports and trays

• Monitoring condition

• Understanding agents of deterioration

• Recognising active vs. inactive damage

Training like Sheffield Museums’ Talking Tables object handling sessions builds real confidence in handling live collections safely.

💬 4. Clear, Accessible Communication

Collections roles aren’t just behind-the-scenes. You’ll communicate with:

• Curators

• Registrars

• Conservators

• Researchers

• Front-of-house staff

• Visitors

Being able to explain complex heritage information simply and clearly is essential. My accessibility practice — alt-text, plain text, transcripts, inclusive writing — has strengthened this massively.

Good communication protects objects and improves the visitor experience.

💻 5. Digital Competency (Databases & Admin Skills)

Most collections teams work with digital systems every day.

Useful systems and skills include:

• Collections databases (Modes, Mimsy, Vernon, EMu, Google Sheets)

• Microsoft Office & Google Workspace

• Xero or other documentation/administrative software

• Spreadsheets for tracking object movement and conservation tasks

Even small admin skills add huge value to a collections team.

🎒 6. Organisational Skills & Time Management

A typical day might include:

• Processing new acquisitions

• Cataloguing

• Environmental checks

• Pest management

• Photography

• Rehousing

• Public engagement activities

Good organisation helps you balance collections care with admin, meetings, and deadlines.

🤝 7. Collaboration & Team Awareness

Collections roles are rarely solo. You’ll collaborate with:

• Conservators

• Curators

• Visitor services

• Archivists

• Volunteers

• Learning teams

Being supportive, adaptable, and communicative makes you a valued member of any museum team.

🌱 8. Ethical Awareness & Inclusive Practice

Ethics are woven into all collections decisions.

From how we access, interpret, and store objects to how we represent communities, inclusive and equitable practice is essential.

My work with Sheffield Museums’ Many Voices Project taught me how important lived experience, accessibility, and community-centred perspectives are to responsible collections care.

🧠 9. Curiosity & Continuous Learning

It doesn’t matter if you specialise in natural history, social history, archaeology, or art — curiosity drives good collections work.

Whether learning new handling techniques, attending training, or exploring provenance research, curiosity is what helps collections evolve.

Your passion truly shows.

✨ Final Thoughts

Collections management is a path built on care — for objects, for communities, and for the stories we preserve. If you enjoy structured work, love learning, and find meaning in protecting history for future generations, collections work is an incredibly fulfilling place to be.

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✨ Learn more about my work and aspirations here: My Portfolio