Startups might have meagre beginnings, but Forbes’ recent predictions about the next billion-dollar startups show their potential for international growth. In particular, the MENA region provided growing levels of funding over the past few years. 564 startups were funded in 2019 in MENA alone, providing a wealth of opportunities for founders and investors alike.
Why use startup business translation services?
Creating international links at the startup phase unlocks new markets and creates opportunities to accelerate your business’ growth. Translation plays an integral, although often undervalued, role in international expansion and needs to be considered at the planning stage. This is true whether your company is trading, networking, or partnering internationally.
Simply converting your current content from one language to another may not be enough. You need to ensure that your words resonate with your new audience; the way your business presents itself in its primary language should be reflected internationally. For brand launches and sales campaigns, this means maintaining consistent branding, tone of voice, and creative marketing messages. Meanwhile, legal contracts, business plans, and official reports need to maintain accuracy and clarity.
Translation cannot be undertaken by every native or proficient speaker of a target language. Business translation services provide professional linguists who are adept at handling all manner of translations and who work to your deadlines.
Tips for choosing the right translation service provider for your startup
- How much to pay per word
Business translation services usually charge per word. This is standard practice and helps customers compare rates. However, choosing the cheapest service does not mean you will get the best results. The rate per word varies according to what your specific text needs.
Translators may use machine translations, computer-assisted translations, or human translations, depending on the complexity of your document. The translation service provider will assess texts for style, content, and technical jargon, determining the best style of translation.
Sometimes, you may need to localize your text (adapt it so that it is culturally appropriate) or receive the translation in a specific format, this will also affect the cost per word. If in doubt, ask the business translation service to clarify what is included in their price.
- How to ensure high-quality translations
Your business needs to sound local to resonate with foreign audiences. Whether it’s changing units of measurement, adapting to local laws, or modifying the message of a marketing slogan, the quality of your translation reflects the quality of your business.
Once you have narrowed down your search for a translation service provider, it is a good idea to inquire about their specialisms. The linguist you hire should be an expert in your field, in translation, and in the languages you need. Explore the company’s service pages before choosing them for your project and ask for more information if you are unsure about how they operate.
- How to work in partnership
Business translation services commonly strive to ensure the highest levels of precision and accuracy in their work. Because of this, many will be able to adapt to your timelines and workflows. It’s a good idea to ask for the contact details of the person managing your tasks if they are not provided. This way, you can set your mind at ease, knowing they’re just an email away.
Top business translation services will assign a specific project manager to your translation, who will communicate with you regularly about your project’s developments. Read any information from them carefully to familiarise yourself with how they work and what to expect.
Why choose Future Trans?
Future Trans has been working in the translation industry for over 25 years, helping small and medium enterprises to grow in the MENA region. We pride ourselves on our local market knowledge, skilled translation team, and expert project managers. As an ISO 17100 certified company, you can be confident that our translations meet the highest standards.
If you would like to find out more about what we have to offer, please get in touch.
