Localisation: Taking your content global
Localisation is more than just translation. It's the process of adapting your content, product, or service to a specific target market, considering cultural nuances, local regulations, and technical requirements. This ensures your message resonates authentically and effectively with your international audience.
What to look for in a localisation freelancer
Finding the right localisation freelancer is crucial for successful global expansion. Look for professionals with:
- Proven experience in your specific industry or niche.
- Native-level fluency in the target language.
- Excellent writing and editing skills.
- Cultural sensitivity and understanding of local customs.
- Familiarity with CAT tools (computer-assisted translation).
- Strong communication and project management skills.
Main expertise areas
Localisation encompasses a range of specialisations. When hiring, consider your specific needs, which might include:
- Translation: Accurate and culturally appropriate translation of text.
- Software localisation: Adapting software interfaces and documentation.
- Website localisation: Translating and adapting website content for different regions.
- Game localisation: Adapting game text, audio, and visuals for a global audience.
- Marketing and advertising localisation: Ensuring marketing materials are culturally relevant and effective.
- Video game localisation: Adapting in-game text, subtitles, voice-overs and other assets.
- Legal document translation: Accurate and legally sound translation of legal documents.
Relevant interview questions
Prepare insightful questions to assess a freelancer's suitability:
- Can you share examples of previous localisation projects similar to mine?
- What is your process for ensuring cultural accuracy and sensitivity in your work?
- What CAT tools are you proficient in, and how do you use them to enhance your workflow?
- How do you handle challenges or unexpected issues during a localisation project?
- Can you provide references from previous clients who can attest to your localisation skills?
- Describe your experience with localising content for different platforms (e.g., websites, mobile apps, software).
Tips for shortlisting candidates
Effectively shortlist candidates by:
- Reviewing their portfolios and checking for relevant experience.
- Requesting test translations to assess their language skills and cultural sensitivity.
- Checking their references and contacting previous clients for feedback.
- Evaluating their communication skills and responsiveness.
Potential red flags
Be mindful of these potential red flags:
- Lack of demonstrable experience in your specific industry.
- Poor quality translations or cultural inaccuracies in their portfolio.
- Unfamiliarity with CAT tools or reluctance to use them.
- Poor communication or unprofessional behaviour.
- Evasive answers to your questions or reluctance to provide references.
Typical complementary skills
Localisation often goes hand-in-hand with these skills:
- SEO (search engine optimisation)
- Copywriting
- Project management
- Cultural consulting
- Desktop publishing
Benefits of hiring a localisation freelancer
Hiring a skilled localisation freelancer can bring numerous benefits:
- Expand your reach: Access new markets and increase your global customer base.
- Enhance brand credibility: Build trust with international audiences by communicating effectively in their language and respecting their culture.
- Improve customer satisfaction: Provide a better user experience for international customers.
- Increase conversion rates: Drive sales and revenue growth by tailoring your message to local markets.
- Gain competitive advantage: Differentiate yourself from competitors by offering localised products and services.
- Reduce time to market: Launch your products or services in new markets quickly and efficiently.
By carefully considering these factors and investing in a skilled localisation freelancer, you can effectively adapt your content for global audiences and achieve international success.
