Pictured: Ann Elphick and team at Foreign Language Services
Ltd
30th September marks International Translation Day, which aims
to recognise and promote the translation profession and the value
which translation brings to business.
International Translation Day was founded in 1953 and is
promoted all over the world by the International Federation of
Translators. 30th September was chosen, as it is the feast day of
St. Jerome, patron saint of translators, interpreters and
librarians.
International Translation Day has taken on a more important role
since 1991 when it became officially recognised worldwide as part
of the effort to improve global trade and communication.
Ann Elphick Managing Director at Stafford based document
translation and localization company, Foreign Language Services Ltd
is helping promote International Translation Day. Ann commented:
"Trading globally and exporting into new foreign markets with the
current value of the pound has become a credible opportunity for
many regional businesses."
However, when the British Chambers of Commerce asked almost
3,500 of its members why they did not export to Europe 11 per cent
cited language barriers.
Ann continued: "Communicating effectively with customers or
prospects in your own language let alone a foreign language can be
tough, however I certainly don't think companies should discount
exporting because of language differences.
"International markets should be seen as an appealing prospect
for regional businesses as language barriers can be removed and
with the right professional support a company can get its
documentation correct from the beginning by considering
localization, cultural factors, how the documentation will convert
into other languages and by ensuring the target language
documentation is well designed and looks professional.
"I hope by helping to promote International Translation Day that
we are highlight the opportunities available by exporting."
To mark International Translation Day, Foreign Language Services
Ltd is offering a 20% discount on document and website translations
to new clients who mention International Translation Day at the
time of instruction. Offer ends 15th October 2011.