Although serious concerns about architects are rare, common themes can emerge in the complaints we handle. By sharing these insights with you, along with guidance on the expectations of the Architects Code, we hope to help you avoid similar pitfalls.

When used responsibly social media can be a valuable tool for sharing knowledge, engaging with others and promoting your services as an architect. As your regulator, we want to make sure you have the necessary tools to know how to use these platforms in line with your professional responsibilities.

That’s why we’ve created advice on using social media in compliance with the Architects Code. It highlights the following aspects of the Code that you should bear in mind when conducting yourself on social media:

• Standard 1 (Honesty and integrity)
• Standard 9 (Maintaining the reputation of architects)
• Standard 12 (Respect for others).

The new guidance discusses the risks involved in using social media and provides principles that should guide your approach to its use. These fundamentals can also be used when considering your online presence more widely, including blogs, discussion forums and website content.

For more advice on promoting your services online, see our Title Protection Toolkit. It shows you how to use your regulated status to your advantage and includes infographics you can download and share on your own social media platforms.

If you’d like further advice on this subject, or if there are other topics you’d like us to cover, contact us at professionalstandards@arb.org.uk or on +44 (0) 207 580 5861 and we will be happy to help.