Customizing a website to cater to diverse languages and regions is referred to as website localization. Given that more than 75% of internet users are not native English speakers, it’s essential for businesses to communicate with them in their language. Companies must strategically plan their international marketing efforts to resonate with and effectively serve a global audience. This article will delve into the six most frequent website localization errors and strategies to prevent them.

Website localisation encompasses various approaches, from website translation into multiple languages to tailoring content for specific local markets. While it may appear straightforward, localization is a nuanced process. Many common pitfalls exist when adapting website content for another language. This article examines the six most prevalent localization mistakes and offers guidance on how to steer clear of them.

Taking a Strictly Literal Approach: Website Localization Errors

One of the most frequent localization errors is adopting an overly literal approach. The main issue stemming from this mistake is that it results in text that sounds unnatural and lacks professionalism. For instance, the sentence “We are always looking for new services to offer our clients” becomes nonsensical when translated from English into French or German. This is because the terms “to offer” and “services” carry different meanings across these languages.

Best practices in localization emphasize avoiding word-for-word translations. Instead, grasp the essence of each sentence and then translate it accordingly.

This becomes even more critical in specialized translations. It’s essential to read more about technical translations medical language, or at least have some familiarity with it, before even commencing the translation. That’s why collaborating with professional translators is always the optimal approach.

Overlooking Cultural Nuances

Beyond literal translations, the language itself can influence the interpretation of specific phrases and words. For example, a business targeting Spanish-speaking consumers would want to use the Spanish terms for “mail” and “fax” (correspondencia and descarga) when referencing these processes. Using the English words instead might give their audience the impression that the business lacks fax capabilities or knowledge of mail procedures.

Some languages lean towards a more formal tone, while others are more informal. A simple illustration is how English might use “Our address is 123 Main St., Anytown, CA, 99999,” while Spanish would opt for “Nuestra dirección es 123 Main St., Anytown, CA, 99999.” The latter, being more formal, could lead to confusion among non-native speakers. Another example is the subtle but significant difference between “I’d like to schedule a meeting with you” and “Me gustaría confirmar una reunión con usted.”

Underutilizing Available Resources: Website Localization Errors

The most effective way to circumvent localization errors is by engaging professional translation services. While the internet offers a plethora of companies providing these services, selecting one requires careful consideration. While some may entice with low prices, if their translators lack qualifications or produce error-ridden translations, it could result in significant financial losses for your business. A poorly translated website can deter potential clients from trusting your services or products. For more insights on upholding your online reputation, refer to the comprehensive guide to reputation management.

Enhancing translation quality often involves employing multiple translators with varying levels of expertise. Some companies assign translators to documents based on their specialization and experience with the subject matter. Although considerably more expensive, this method consistently yields superior results.

Even the most skilled translators can benefit from assistance to expedite and streamline the process. Don’t shy away from leveraging digital translation tools and resources.

Disregarding SEO

Translating your website into another language without considering SEO can lead to a loss of traffic from search engines as they may only index content in English. Additionally, non-English content requires more time for translation and ranking well on search engines like Google and Bing. Therefore, incorporating your website’s target keywords into the localized versions is crucial. For instance, if your website focuses on pool cleaning services in San Diego, ensure that the Spanish version also includes “pool cleaners in San Diego.”

Relying Solely on Automated Translators

It’s easy to get swept up in the abundance of online resources and place blind faith in them. However, relying solely on automated translators for website localization is not advisable. These tools lack the capacity to fully comprehend your message and produce accurate translations, potentially leading to significant issues later on. Moreover, automated translators often introduce numerous errors that are challenging to rectify retrospectively. If professional translation services are not feasible at the moment, it’s preferable to seek assistance from a bilingual friend or colleague instead of depending solely on automated translation. You can even explore suggestions from Google Translate initially and then engage a professional translator later, especially if Google Translate proves helpful in offering accurate translation suggestions.

Depending Entirely on Native Speakers: Website Localization Errors

While hiring a native speaker might seem intuitive, it’s not always the optimal choice for translating your website content. Regardless of whether you opt for automated translation, assistance from a friend or colleague, or professional services, avoid relying solely on native speakers for handling crucial content and documents like legal documents or personal information. For sensitive information and documents, always engage a professional translator. Ultimately, translation extends beyond mere language proficiency, demanding a deep understanding of intricate nuances.

Conclusion

Website translation and localization involve numerous potential pitfalls. The most effective way to mitigate localization errors is to collaborate with a professional translation service. These providers employ specialized and experienced translators who will handle your documents with care and provide valuable insights on communicating effectively with international audiences. The value of this expertise cannot be overstated, as mishandling localization can severely impact your business.