Even with a small business, you can still have a global reach.
One thing is certain, though: you need a language translation company to help your business navigate linguistic and cultural barriers if your clients are international.
Translating different languages is no easy task, but someone has to do it. This is why there are so many benefits of language translators for businesses.
Here is what you need to know when choosing a language translation company to take your business to a global level.
Have They Done This Before?
If this language translation company has copious amounts of business translation experience, you can be sure that they know what they are doing. Ask not only for their resume but also ask them about specific language translation experience.
For example, with Global Bridge Translation, you know that their language translation experience is vast.
However, taking a chance on a new translator is not a bad thing. Let’s break it down a little further as to why working with a new translator could be advantageous:
Take a Chance on a New Translator
That said, sometimes the ones who have done it the most are not always the best (but it’s still a safe bet to make that they are the most capable). In some cases, you may feel drawn to a new translator.
That is fine as well! Be sure to ask them about any previous translation experience they may have, even if it is not directly related to your business field. You can still get a sense of their work ethic and language prowess.
Sometimes, language translation experience doesn’t need to be from an exact translation company: it could come from an individual freelancer you trust. Do what is best for you and your business.
Besides, a new translator will not have as high of rates as an experienced one. They may not have cultural competency in their other language like an experienced translator would, though.
Do They Know the Culture Behind the Language?
Outside of the United States, it is common for people to be fluent in more than one language. That said, there are cultural differences to account for.
For example, an American who speaks Mandarin Chinese may be able to translate well, but unless they are immersed in or know Chinese culture, they may not know the exact local lingo to use when translating your business’s services or products to a Chinese audience.
Make sure you interview the translator before you agree to use their services. That way, you can get an understanding of not only their linguistic abilities but also their ability to relate culturally in their other language.
How Fast Do They Work?
When perusing a language translation company, you also need to consider how fast they work.
Of course, you want quality translations for your business. However, you also need to know that the language translation company completes its work in a timely manner.
Translation takes time, and it is important to recognize this fact. That said, make sure you give clear deadlines and have an open line of communication between you and the translator. You want them to trust you as much as you trust them when it comes to the work.
A quick turnaround time does wonders. Be wary of references and reviews of companies that don’t follow through on their world; don’t enlist their services, then.
For good references and reviews, though, then you need to consider that particular translator or translation company!
What Kinds of References and Reviews Do They Have?
If the language translation company you’re considering has some pretty awful reviews, then—again—it’s probably best not to use their services.
However, a company may have many four- or five-star reviews but maybe one terrible review. This doesn’t mean you should take them out of the running, though! Rather, when you speak with the company, ask them about the one bad review and why they may have it.
In that case, you may open up a dialogue with the company about somewhere they went wrong or how the client didn’t hold up their end of the service either. You can learn more about the company by having an open line of communication like this.
Everyone is always learning, whether you’re a translator or running a business. Be willing to speak about the difficult stuff too.
What About Comparing Translating Fees?
As any good business owner would do, you need to think about comparing translating fees.
A less experienced translator will not charge nearly as much as an experienced translator. However, their work may not be of the same caliber as someone with experience.
Be honest with yourself regarding your budget and what you can afford. Bring that honesty with you when you try commissioning a language translation company or independent translator.
A good language translation company or independent translator will be transparent about their rates. Remember that you are asking for a service to be done: your chosen translator does deserve a competitive and fair wage.
That said, make sure you’re not in for any surprises when they invoice you at the completion of the project. Again, good communication is key between you as the business liaison and the translator as the one rendering services for your business.
Choose the Best Language Translation Company for Your Business
It may take some trial and error, or maybe you’ll get lucky from the start with an amazing language translation company. Either way, this guide hopefully gave you some ideas of the questions to ask yourself before hiring a translator.
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