Although much of the world speaks English, be prepared to work in another language if you're hoping to expand into the global market. 65% of people prefer content in their native language, while 40% will avoid content that's not in their mother tongue altogether.
If you don't have the time to learn another language, you will have to turn to translation services.
However, they can be expensive, which is why you want to make sure that you end up with the best translation services available. So how can you ensure that you end up working with a solid and reputable company?
Keep reading to learn about seven factors to consider that will help you choose the best professional translation services.
1. Understand the Difference Between a Native Speaker and a Translation Expert
Many people are under the impression that native speakers are by definition capable of translating. They may therefore waste time and money hiring native speakers to help them, only to be disappointed with the result.
The truth is that many different elements go into translation, and linguistic ability is only one of those. Check to see that the people you work with all of the necessary certifications and qualifications.
Aside from language, you'll also want to make sure that the translators you work with understand the culture of the region you're operating in. If they don't, they can still make mistakes—even if they have a solid grasp of the language.
2. Ensure That the Translators Are Detail-Oriented
It shouldn't come as a surprise that you want the translators you work with to be meticulous and detail-oriented.
There is no such thing as a small mistake during a translation assignment. Something that might seem "minor" can end up costing you the respect of customers, clients, or business partners. It can also cost you sales.
Aside from being professionals, make sure that the translation services you work with will ask questions when necessary. You don't want them to assume something and end up making a mistake.
3. Make Sure They Can Handle Localization
Remember that different places can speak the same language, but might use it differently. You'll therefore want to ensure that the company you choose to work with has no problem with localization.
For example, in Spanish, the word for 'take' that many Latin American countries use is vulgar in Spain. If a country fails to understand those sorts of nuisances, you might be in for some awkward conversations and much-needed apologies.
The best multilingual translation services can handle localization without a problem. You won't have to worry about sending the wrong messages to customers due to a cultural misunderstanding.
4. Check the Company's Quality Control Measures
It's rare for reputable and well-known translation companies to make mistakes. However, if something does go wrong, you want to make sure that they have a solid quality control system in place to bounce back from the error.
As mentioned, you'll want to ensure that the translation services you hire have the necessary certifications. This means having credentials from the translation industry in the country that you're operating in.
You'll also want to make sure that the company you work with has the tools necessary to keep all of the data you supply safe. Between linguistic errors and cultural misunderstandings, you have enough to worry about.
You shouldn't also have to worry about a data breach.
5. Check to See How They Use Technology
Although human translators are, for the foreseeable future, always going to be more effective than computers, it's still a good idea to inquire about how the company uses technology.
Most modern translation companies use a mix of technology and human brainpower. Different types of technology can help teams translate documents quicker and more effectively.
In some cases, computers can also help companies be more accurate with their translations, as well as more consistent.
6. Look for Testimonials
If you're an American-based company looking to expand into India, you might not have a clear grasp of Hindi. In that case, looking at company cited examples of past work won't be of much use to you.
Instead, try to find testimonials that come from past clients the translation company has worked with. Of course, make sure to look at reviews that aren't just on the company website.
It's also worth considering who the testimonials are coming from. If they seem to be high-quality clients, then you can bet that the translation company will probably be able to handle anything you need them to do.
7. Pay Attention to Value Instead of Price
While you shouldn't spend your entire budget on professional translation services, understand that going with the cheapest option might not be the smartest move either.
Budget translation services might not provide you with the knowledge you need. They may also fail to deliver quality content and results.
Think of translation services as an investment.
Try to look past the initial cost, and think of what you'll get out of the services. In many cases, better customer service and a greater brand reach make many of the costs worth it.
Use These Tips to Find the Best Translation Services
Whether you're looking to expand across the world or need translators for the country you operate in, finding the right translation company to work with can be a challenge. Make sure to consider these seven points to ensure that you end up with the best translation services available.
Do you now have a better understanding of how to go about choosing the best professional translation services? If you do, remember to check out some of our other posts for more helpful guides and tips for international business.