Why You Need A Professional Translator If You're Taking Your Business International

Companies looking to go beyond domestic sales and take their trade internationally will face language, cultural and legal barriers. While the proliferation of automated online transaction tools suggests that translations don’t need to be completely accurate, that’s far from the truth for corporations. Here is why you need a professional translator when going international. 

Reliable Language Translation

Words and phrases don’t always directly translate from one language to another. Just like when a foreigner uses incorrect English phrasing that’s obvious to a native speaker, the same is true the other way around. Because of this, there’s far too much room for mistakes to creep in. Certainly, the role of translation services in international trade is, in part, to provide accurate translation from one language to another. This goes beyond simple word-for-word translation to the literal meaning behind the words. 

Using Appropriate Phrases (And Avoiding Inappropriate Ones)

Phrases and slogans don’t always directly translate well. The meaning of phrases or word selections in one country will vary in another. Therefore, the human translator must be familiar with language nuisances and subtle differences that abound. Also, it’s worth looking out for words that translate so badly that they could offend. When their direct translation is tragically different, it can lead to unwanted outcomes.

For companies wishing to protect their brand when establishing it in a new country, it’s necessary to select appropriate product names and marketing slogans, including vetting them through a translation service to be safe. 

Country or Regional Differences With The Same Language

Spanish is a good example of translation services for country or regional differences. The Spanish phrases in regular use across Spain are different from that of Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries. Therefore, the translation must reflect this by using correct Spanish when marketing to customers in Spain or elsewhere. 

Additionally, there are sometimes regional differences as well. When marketing to a single region, local vernacular will often differ. It may be necessary to secure a translator from that region to be authentic. However, usually, the national language version will suffice. 

Boost Sales

When a new entrant in the marketplace appears similar to locally produced products, it has the potential to fit right in. The opposite is also true when sticking out for all the wrong reasons. This might be a botched marketing campaign that doesn’t use the best phrasing to appeal to the right demographic. 

Being quickly accepted within a group of several competing products or services allows the business to jumpstart its international ambitions. Given the costs of launching overseas, any boost to sales in the first year is welcoming and bodes well for the future. The opposite can also be the case when launching a product. The brand can fail to secure a beachhead in the market and struggle even more thereafter. 

For companies that plan to grow their presence over a decade or longer, the initial furtive steps into new international markets should be done with the utmost care. This includes ensuring that all language is translated professionally to avoid costly mistakes or blunders.