Firstly, don’t assume that an English language website will help you develop business internationally. Yes, English is used to trade in over 20 different markets, including the four Anglophone countries, UK, the USA, Canada, and Ireland.
However, apart from the next-door markets to the UK with their own native languages(remember France?), German is used for exporting to 15 markets (including Germany and Austria), Russian is used to trade in the Baltic States, Poland, and Bulgaria, Spanish is used to export to Portugal and French is used in 8 markets including Belgium and Luxembourg.
- BUILD TRUST
People tend to feel more trusting of brands that provide information in their language. Showcasing your products in the market language brings credibility, and proves that you are a serious, customer-focused market player.
- INCREASED SALES.
Each language you add to your website has the potential to significantly increase your client base and conversions. Customers are more inclined to make a purchase is when they view websites in their own language.
- BEAT YOUR COMPETITION
Look at your competitors – do they have a multilingual website? If they do, it’s time to catch up. If they don’t, then it’s time to get in front in different target markets and establish your brand internationally before they do.
- BRAND EXPOSURE
Once translated, your website is potentially accessible to more people, which in effect produces a greater awareness of your brand. A multilingual website adds credibility by showing that you are a truly international business.
- REACH NEW MARKETS
A translated website can introduce your company to new customers from markets you did not even know you could access. Localising your marketing based on the country will see you acquiring new customers much more easily.
- COST EFFECTIVE SEO
A multilingual website is a cost-effective way of building business in foreign markets. Websites that are properly referenced in multiple languages will be noticed by search engines and help your business rank internationally.
Stirling Austin of Pixel Executive offers advice on international expansion regarding your website and business. Get in touch with Stirling on 07887 647824.