Why Do We Need Localized Content?

Content localization is much more than standard translation. It has multidimensional characteristics and requires certain nuances to be taken into consideration.

For example, you need to think about colors, symbols, pictures, numbers, dates, currencies, and even the subject matter of the content. For example, if you are entering the Chinese market as a US brand, translating only the words is not sufficient. You should also convert the currency from the US dollar to the Chinese yuan. While the white color represents purity in some countries, it is associated with lament in others.

Well, why should we localize our content?

Not everyone knows English

If you think that the most spoken language is English, you are wrong. Only 25.3% of internet users prefer English over other languages. Therefore, using only English as a medium of communication makes 75% of the audience feel alienated.

Online platforms can change from culture to culture

Not everyone prefers to use the same platforms on social media. The first step in developing an effective content campaign localization is to conduct research on the most popular channels among the target audience. Otherwise, all efforts would be ruined. While Facebook is an important platform for Turkey for content marketing, the same might not be valid for China. In China, platforms such as Weibo and WeChat are mostly preferred. Today, there are more than 1 billion people in China, and only 1.8 million of these people are Facebook users. As a result, putting all of your marketing efforts and money into Facebook may not yield a return on investment in China.

Keywords used by consumers in search engines can show differences

To rank higher in search results, quality content localization should be developed. In order to achieve that, there are some points that need special consideration. For example, let’s assume you manage a renowned hotel and use the word ”vacation.” This word might not have the same effect in Britain and Australia because people in these countries use the word ”holiday.”

If you want to get attention from prospective clients and familiarize them with your brand, you should follow a multidimensional approach suited to each culture’s needs.

Last but not least, do not forget that internet users demand content ”as if it were written in their own language.”