Ensuring that your website is accessible to as many people as possible when expanding your business online is essential, which means making sure that it is available in multiple languages. While you may think you can rely on online translation tools to do this, there are several reasons to opt for website translation services from a native speaker instead.
Table of Contents
Online translation tools are inaccurate
An important reason to use website translation services from a native speaker is that online translation tools are often inaccurate. They cannot consider the nuances of language, which can lead to mistranslations and be frustrating for users and even lead them to abandon your website altogether.
The localization of your website is essential
Another reason to use website translation services is that localization is essential, which means ensuring that your website considers the cultural differences of your target audience. For example, if you are expanding your business to China, you will need to consider that Chinese consumers are more likely to be relationship-oriented than individualistic. They will be looking for a website that reflects their values and provides them with a sense of connection.
A native speaker can help avoid common mistakes
When translating your website into another language, it is easy to make common mistakes because you are not familiar with the grammar and syntax of the target language. A native speaker, on the other hand, will be able to avoid these mistakes, ensuring that your website sounds natural and is easy to understand.
A native speaker can ensure the tone of your website is appropriate
The tone of your website is essential in any language. Still, it can be especially challenging to get it right in a foreign language because the same word can have contrasting connotations in different cultures. For example, the word “bargain” may be seen as positive in English, but it could be seen as unfavorable in Spanish. A native speaker can ensure that your website’s tone is appropriate for your target audience.
It would be best to consider SEO when translating your website
It would be best to consider SEO (search engine optimization) when translating your website, ensuring that users can find it effortlessly when searching for it online. It can be challenging, as you need to consider the keywords used in the target language. A native speaker will be acquainted with the target language and culture, making it easier to select the appropriate keywords.
The layout of your website may need to be changed
Another reason to use website translation services from a native speaker is that the layout of your website may need to be changed because some languages, such as Arabic, Hebrew, and Persian, are read from right to left. If your website is not designed with this in mind, it could confuse users. A native speaker will be able to advise you on the best way to change the layout of your website.
You will need to create new content
When translating your website, you will also need to create new content because certain concepts may not translate well or may not be relevant to your target audience. For example, if you are expanding your business to a country with a different currency, you will need to update your prices. A native speaker can help you create new content that is relevant and useful for your target audience.
The legal implications of website translation
It would be best to consider the legal implications of website translation because some countries have strict laws regarding the translation of websites. For example, in China, the government must approve all websites before you can translate them. A native speaker will be acquainted with the legal requirements of website translation, ensuring that your website is compliant.
It would be best to consider website accessibility
When translating your website, you also need to consider website accessibility, ensuring that users with disabilities can access your website. For example, if you translate your website into Spanish, you must consider how deaf or hard-of-hearing users can access your content. A native speaker can advise you on how to make your website accessible to all users.
You may need to use different domain names
You should also know that you may need to use a different domain name when translating your website because some country-specific domains, such as .cn for China, are unavailable in other languages. A native speaker will be acquainted with the domain name requirements of website translation and can help you select an appropriate domain name.
It would be best to consider website hosting
It would be best to consider website hosting when translating your website because some website hosts do not support website translation. For example, WordPress.com does not offer website translation services. A native speaker can help you select a website host that supports website translation.