In today’s global economy, you may be missing out on multiple market segments by not using a professional translation service. You might think targeting an international audience is only essential to big businesses. In fact, it’s even more important for smaller companies to break into the global marketplace.
If you wish to expand your business, you’ll need to ensure that your branding efforts reach beyond local and national boundaries. Spreading your message to the rest of the world requires clear communication in a multitude of languages.
This is where a professional translation service comes in. Don’t be tempted to rely on translation software when crafting important documents or your company’s website. Software only translates word for word in very literal terms.
Only a human well-versed in translation can pick up on the subtle nuances and colloquialisms that are sure to appear. Translation software may also be unable to comprehend and translate industry-specific terms. It’s easy to see how this could be a problem for many companies.
While interpreters are required for person-to-person bilingual conversations, a professional translation service is invaluable in the creation of catalogues, correspondence, contracts and marketing plans. The right translation consultant may even be able to advise your business on whether a contract is culturally suitable for a particular marketplace.
Assistance with business documents is key, but a well-crafted globally-oriented website is of equal importance. What better way to reach an international marketplace than a site that can be viewed in multiple languages? Anyone who leaves your website because it’s unavailable in his or her native tongue is a potential customer lost.
A website available in several languages will impress English speakers as well. Although a business needn’t be large to offer multiple languages, it conveys diversity and the appearance of a multinational company. No one needs to know that your business isn’t a corporate giant…yet.
It’s easy to see why hiring a professional translation service is well worth the investment. Experienced, certified translators are well-equipped to handle complex documents, sometimes even in obscure languages. A team of seasoned professionals should understand not only the words to be translated, but the cultural differences between them.
Myriad examples of poor translation can be found across the Internet. Often, companies buy translation software in a bid to save money. The results are disastrous, with glaring grammatical errors or missed nuances that completely alter the original meaning.
Don’t make the mistake of cutting corners by hiring an inexperienced freelance translator. Being multilingual doesn’t necessarily equate to an adequately thorough understanding of the target language. Such a lapse in hiring judgment can jeopardize your company’s hard-won reputation.
The initial expense of hiring a professional translation service may seem high, but the cost of creating a solid international presence is well worth the investment. Hiring an experienced team of professionals pays off in the form of increased business, maximisation of your marketing budget and a boost to your company’s sterling reputation.
Resource:
You can find out more about how translation services can benefit your business at Codex Global Limited.
great post! look forward to the next