Thinking of going global with your business? Here’s something to consider: localization and translation services. For a company going global, language is a number-one priority so that it stands out as an industry leader. Localization and translation services help businesses increase ROI by connecting employees, consumers and their local communities on a more personal (and professional) level. Communicating effectively in a country’s native language is how a company truly integrates itself into the local market.
What is Localization?
Localization is the process of adapting content to a specific locale or market. This can include making changes in content to reflect cultural preferences such as language, colors, currencies, formatting of dates, addresses and much more. Localization is the first step in adapting to consumption patterns in other countries. One of the most important elements of localization is translation.
Making the Transition
Speaking to teams and consumers in their native language is crucial to growth in the global marketplace. Although English is a common language internationally, a Common Sense Advisory study indicated that 72.4% of global consumers prefer to use their native language when shopping online. Many companies believe their English-language website is good enough to sell products internationally, but this is wrong. When it comes to online business, accurate translation foster trust and inspire brand loyalty. Professional translation services can help businesses bridge that barrier.
Getting Started
Begin by professionally translating your website. It’s tempting to use automatic translation apps or plugins, but grammatical errors and poorly translated text can drive visitors away from your site, and affect your brand’s reputation and SEO efforts. Not only will these impact sales, but also your online visibility. In fact, search engines will actually penalize your website for improper translation and increasing exit traffic, which occurs when a visitor prematurely leaves your site.
Equip your business with the right resources. Everything from legal documents, to employee handbooks, and product/service manuals should be professionally translated. Access to the appropriate resources can help recruit talent internationally, provide a higher level of customer service and prevent lawsuits. Doing business overseas is a challenge, but if your business is prepared, it is possible to minimize risks and maximize rewards.
Include translation services in your budget. Approximately 56.2% of consumers say the ability to obtain information in their own language is more important than the price of a product. Language is a key driver in purchasing decisions made online and consumers are willing to pay more for it. Make professional translation a priority in your online business expansion.
Learn more about the importance of localization. TransForma Translation Services can help you sell products and services to your customers, wherever they are in the global marketplace. We provide the most cost-effective localization solutions based on your needs and your budget. Contact us at (305) 722-3827 or at request@transformaonline.com.