3 Tips for Getting Chinese Localization Right

In the world of language translation and interpretation, localization refers to the process of developing or adapting an offering, keeping a specific region or country in mind. What works in one country wouldn’t necessarily be successful in another.

And thus, the process of localization involves more than translation and is an important part to consider for businesses entering a foreign market.

In the following; we attempt to understand what localization is and how businesses entering the Chinese market can achieve this, the right way. 
The Right Chinese Localization: Understanding the Culture and Technical Aspects

Businesses marketing their product to their foreign audience must consider more than just the translation requirements of localization.

While good Chinese translators and interpreters will be required for this job, localization also considers cultural and technical aspects. This means businesses must be well versed in the prevalent culture and politic sensitivities of the audience they’re marketing for.

Below are some helpful tips that can be used to achieve the right localization in China: 

Identify Your Market

This is the first rule of localization. It’s important to clearly define the target audience before starting any localization campaign. Ask yourself these questions:

• Who will you aim your source content at?
• How will this be done?
• What needs to be done?

Expert English to Chinese translators recommend gaining an understanding of the people who actually speak that language before discussing localization. 
Respect Chinese Advertising Law

A new amendment in China’s advertising law levies hefty fines against false advertizing and reporting. Additionally, the new regulations prohibit use of superlative claims in advertising, that brands in general are guilty of making. This means western advertizing and marketing techniques are completely useless and can even land the business in big trouble, as smart phone maker Xiaomi found itself in under China’s new advertising law.

You’ll lose money, customers - and most importantly - your credibility if the ad copy of your marketing campaign doesn’t abide by Chinese law. Hiring a good Chinese translation and interpretation vendor that specializes in localization in China is a good option.

When Translating, Focus On Meanings, Not Just Words

Most ad copies translated in another language sounds very much like garbled nonsense, if taken and translated word for word. You don’t want your advertising campaign to turn into the Chinese equivalent of Engrish (or Chinglish)!

Rather than the words, the ad copies should focus on meaning trying to be conveyed. The translation should inspire not only the targeted audience, but others as well to purchase that service or product.

It isn’t very difficult to convey the desired message in an ad copy through translated text. Of course, you’ll need to first understand your target audience, their language and culture first. Foreign businesses just entering the Chinese market can take help from Limpid Translations for this aspect of their marketing journey.