All Clear Translations Identifies Global Buyer Trends of 2013

Based on clients’ global language translations needs, here is a list of regions and industries that showed growth in 2013. Looking beyond our next door neighbors, there are opportunities to sell to a new market.

Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) December 16, 2013 -- Looking at clients’ global language needs of 2013, here is a list of regions and industries that showed growth and promise this year. There will always be a large need for Spanish and French translations due to U.S. largest trading partners, Canada and Mexico. Looking beyond border neighbors, there are opportunities to sell to a new market.

Here are the global areas that could be new markets for export.
Areas showing a large interest in U.S. products:
Asia: Chinese – simplified, Korean
Pan Asia: Indonesia, Philippines
Eastern Europe: Russia, Poland, Czech Republic
Europe: Germany
Middle East: Saudi Arabia
Africa: South Africa
Americas: Canada, Mexico, Columbia, Brazil

What products are these global buyers looking for?
Hi Tech Manufacturing including:
o Industrial Robotics
o Medical Robotics
Software Solutions for security including:
o CyberSecurity
o Mitigation solutions for product theft
Online Education Solutions
Medical Devices

To build a global company, translation will be the bridge to close gaps to new clients. Creating loyalty and
respect with a new group of buyers. First impressions can never be taken back. Has someone not gotten your name right? Not translating can leave the same first impression. Marketing strategies that include translations have been highly successful for clients. This information should help identify key areas to explore and grow in.

Stay tuned for our Growth Predictions for 2014. Details will include growth areas and languages to target new markets. Build it, translate it and they will buy it. May 2014 be filled with goal breaking moments.

About the Author
Linda Richardson is the President and owner of All Clear Translations, LLC. Their translations and localization transform websites, software, technical manuals and marketing materials into all languages helping to increase your sales. Their unique process can include Plain English to help companies increase understanding and comprehension while reducing translation and production costs of manuals. Their audio voice-over technologies enable spoken and written communication in many languages. Email Linda at
linda(at)allcleartranslations and visit their website http://www.allcleartranslations.com.

Five Tips for a Successful International Trade Show Exhibit

Are you standing out? Getting found or seen at trade conferences? Do people love you for your communication Outreach?

International trade shows offer terrific opportunities for growing and establishing your global contacts and clients. You will gain exposure to many potential international suppliers and colleagues, distributors and more in one place. Maximize your investment by following the tips below:

1.       Act Global – English may be considered a universal language (by Americans) but you could benefit greatly by having a translator present at your exhibit.

At a minimum, translate your marketing materials and product information into your prospective clients’ native languages. Translated presentations give an opportunity to potential international prospects to comprehend your product benefits and the technical details of your amazing product. Overall, allowing them to understand the value of you and your company.

This small addition to your marketing materials will make international guests feel welcome and respected. Even if you do not speak their language, if you attempt to communicate in their native tongue you will be held in much higher esteem.

2.       Mind your manners  - Welcome, welcome, welcome your visitors to your trade booth. Offer them comfort, they have been walking and talking to many exhibitors. They may be tired and hungry. Some cultures are insulted if they are not offered a snack, beverage or a seat while learning more about what you do. Example: if you visit a Danish company, you will be in an inviting space, offered tea and cookies and made to feel very welcome. Also, be aware and recognize the role of women in some cultures and act appropriately.

3.       Mirror body language - Americans are known to engage quickly, be matter of fact and “cut to the chase”. Some cultures are uncomfortable with that level of direct interaction.

o   Follow their lead – if they bow, bow, allow them to extend their hand, do not stare or make direct eye contact if they are not.

o   Try not to come off as strong and rude.  Engage them personally, small talk is big!

4.       Business cards – Company cards are essential and a valuable introduction. Again, create bi-lingual cards for your international prospects. Choose languages that are your targets’ or the domain country’s official language. Hand your card to the prospect with both hands; accept their card with both hands. Never write on the back of an associate’s card, this can be seen as very insulting and may even seal their minds that you are not getting the deal!

5.       Follow up personally - Send a hand written note to your prospective clients or suppliers thanking them for their time and information. If you promised to send information, include it. This simple act will create a strong buyer/seller relationship, create respect and build your sales!

You will have successful interactions, confidence and increased sales using these tips. Happy Hunting!

About the Author:

Linda Richardson is the President and owner of All Clear Translations, LLC. Their translations and localization transform websites, software, technical manuals and marketing materials into all languages helping to increase your sales. Their unique process can include Plain English to help companies increase understanding and comprehension while reducing translation and production costs of manuals. Their audio voice-over technologies enable spoken and written communication in many languages. Email Linda at linda@allcleartranslations and visit their website http://www.allcleartranslations.com

Everyone should be excited about Women in Technology

 

NCWIT - Have you seen this organization. Amazing young women in technology. Let's all support their mission. Less than 3% of young girls choose to go into computer tech studies. We need to understand why and help open this field of study to 1/2 of the population!   

  https://www.aspirations.org/

Aspirations in Computing is a talent development pipeline initiative of the National Center for Women & IT (NCWIT) designed to increase women's meaningful participation in computing careers by providing encouragement, visibility, community, leadership opportunities, scholarships, and internships to high potential technically inclined young women. Aspirations in Computing is the only national level talent development program for young women in computing and information technology.

Blog worth sharing - Global Skills are essential

Tomorrow’s Leaders: Why Global Skills Are Essential

Posted By Paul Tate, November 19, 2013 at 9:14 AM, in Category: Next-Generation Leadership and the Changing Workforce 

http://www.gilcommunity.com/blog/tomorrows-leaders-why-global-skills-are-essential/

• Academic institutions should include a strong global perspective in their technical and manufacturing management training courses

• Companies should ensure internal training and apprenticeship schemes include lessons in global cultural awareness and communication skills

• Today’s leaders need to encourage their executives and top-flight management trainees to take on international assignments, however brief, in overseas locations – either in the company’s own facilities, or perhaps with one of its partners

- See more at: http://www.gilcommunity.com/blog/tomorrows-leaders-why-global-skills-are-essential/#sthash.A0BVII0b.dpuf

The State of PA opens a Trade Office in Russia!

Facts about Russia and why you should think about selling there! 


Please click on the link and view the presentation. Contact your local Northwest or Southwest PA office to learn more. http://www.newpa.com/webfm_send/3732

Russia:
10% of the world’s oil resources
20% of the world’s gas resources
¼ of the world’s wood resources

143 million – the largest market in Eastern Europe
Highly urbanized population: 72,9% / 21,1%
Low life expectancy: men 62 years / women 73 years
Unemployment rate: 8%
Growth projection: +5% in 2013
Inflation: tends to diminish -> 7% in 2012

Budget balance : -2 % GDP
Public debt (% GDP): 10,5% (2011) -> 15% in 2015.
Industry: 35% of the GDP, employs 22% of the active population

2012 : Russia enters WTO

+15% growth regions

Contact: Jana New :
jnew@pa.gov
 I 717-265-7749

PA | AUTHORIZED TRADE REPRESENTATIVE RUSSIA
Ul Bolshaya Pochtovaya | 26V
/1 105082 Moscow | RUSSIA
Tel: +7 495 645 59 36 | Fax: +7 495 645 59 37
Johann SPONAR | SALVEO
Group’s
 CEO :
j.sponar@newpa.eu

Sabine SCARAVETTI | GM Russia :
s.scaravetti@newpa.eu
Nona KOPYLOVA | PA Authori
zed Trade Representative :
n.kopylova@newpa.eu

Selling Robotics Worldwide ~ Linda's Translation Talk

Selling Robotics Worldwide ~ Linda's Translation Talk

Selling Robotics Worldwide

Integrate Robots Worldwide and Grow Sales

Where in the world is your robot? Is your robot making a difference in manufacturing, healthcare or home life? Worldwide manufacturing is trending towards more sophisticated automation. Robots are changing our manufacturing processes for industries like automotive, food and medical. Robots are helping manufacturers produce more with better accuracy. They can take over the mundane duties for some manufacturing workers enabling the workers to focus on quality while production increases.

Consumers to manufacturers are finding robots in many industries and even in our homes. Have you seen the Roomba vacuum cleaner? Have you driven by a Google automated vehicle? In hospitals, robots help with surgeries and delivery of medications. Aethon Robotics enables hospitals to robotically distribute medications, meals, disposal of trash and more enabling better utilization of care for patients. Seegrid Robotics has enabled distribution centers to move goods with bot-driven trucks. Both Aethon and Seegrid are Pittsburgh based companies and sell their robotic solutions worldwide.

Where are the markets for robots? 70% of the sales are in Asia, U.S. and Germany. Asia is the largest market; Germany is the largest European market. Industry experts project growth rates are predicted at 2% up to 6% a year. Brazil and Mexico are emerging markets that are showing great sales increases for robotics manufacturers. Medical robotic sales have grown about 20%. Below is a graph showing worldwide industrial robots by industry.

Source: http://www.ifr.org/industrial-robots/statistics/

2013 is showing robotic sales of +160,000 units and it is predicted there will be sales of over 190,000 units per year by 2016. What will enable successful global sales? Meeting the needs of a potential and current client in their own language. The software user interface and user manuals should be translated into the manufacturing worker’s native language. This will decrease accidents, mistakes, time to learn operating the robots. By translating into the workers native language you are reducing customer service calls thereby reducing down time for your client and reducing your costs in customer service time.

Why not let the end user translate the documents? As with your software, you should own your translations. Utilizing a central translation service will enable you to control what is being stated. This quality control will help you convey your message in the most accurate way. Reducing headaches, miscommunication and service calls because the end user does not understand the user guides. Also, when you are dealing with your software, you really want to be sure the localization of it is done correctly. Truncated strings, abbreviated terminology, and other errors can make a great client into a disgruntled client. 

How to translate? A professional translation service can help you create your localization process. First, you need to find a language service provider that will take the time to partner with you and help you develop a process that enables communication between your technical writer or project manager. They should have experienced associates that work within software development and understand localization of software. Once you find the right provider, the process of translating your software and user guides should be a good one. You should be able to meet your deadlines, satisfy the needs of your manufacturers and build business worldwide.

About the Author:

Linda Richardson is the President and Owner of All Clear Translations, LLC. They help manufacturers increase export sales through localization services of websites, software, technical manuals and marketing materials. Visit www.allcleartranslations.com or email Linda@allcleartranslations.com to learn how they can help you grow globally!

Halloween Celebrations Around the World

What is your favorite Halloween story?

When I was about 10 years old, I was delegated with the job of taking my younger brothers trick or treating. We did not live in a "neighborhood" and had to walk a couple of miles to find the 10 - 15 houses we would invade. Our neighbors waited for us, baking us brownies, cupcakes and candied apples. We would stop in several of these homes, sit at their kitchen table and tell them about our past year. When we said "Trick or Treat" and were met with Trick my brother, Jay would stand on his head.  Unfortunately today, you would never allow your children to walk  that distance to other homes, sit in people's kitchen that you only see that day and behave in such a "free" way.

This particular Halloween, we decided to walk back through the graveyard near our home and properly scare ourselves. While walking home, heading up our very long driveway we heard something behind us. We turned around to find 2 ghosts screaming and running at us. We were terrified! How to get away from them?  Now is the time for me to be the heroic big sister and save my brothers. Instead, I ran OVER them to get into the house. My mother and sister were draped in sheets and had been waiting for us to return. They stopped, took off their ghostly coverings and laughed hysterically. I realized I may not be hero material when encountering the supernatural. Perhaps that is why I had younger brothers - let them be eaten first!

Here are some Halloween customs around the world:

Ireland - the birthplace of Halloween. Fortunetelling, bonfires, traditional food and beer is enjoyed.
Mexico - November 1st, Day of the Dead, altars are built and gifts of food, beverages are placed there.
Germany - some people hide their knives from evil spirits.
Great Britain - celebrations include fireworks and partying in costumes for a week!
Austria - people leave bread, water and a light on their table at night to welcome dead souls.
China - Festival of Hungry Ghosts is a celebration where angry spirits are offered food and gifts to pacify them.

My brothers Doug and Steven.

Happy Halloween - wishing you a memorable night!

Linda Richardson
President
All Clear Translations

International Growth - Easy as one, two three!

International Sales Is Easier Than You Think!

U.S. manufacturing is more efficient and innovative now than in any other time in history. Worldwide, companies are looking for solutions that are reasonably priced and high quality.  Better than 70% of the world’s purchasing power is outside of the U.S. Sometimes thinking about going international is an overwhelming thought for business development executives. Before you decide it is too hard, think about these statistics. 17 states had record exports in the first half of 2013, building on a trend of U.S. export records. More important than those numbers are the millions of American jobs supported by exports in manufacturing and other sectors. The top export markets for U.S. goods through the first half of 2013 included Canada ($150.6 billion), Mexico ($110.7 billion), Japan ($32.2 billion), Singapore ($15.2 billion), and Australia ($12.9 billion).

http://tradegov.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/staterecords2.jpg?w=300&h=144

Our largest trade partner is right across the border! Ease into exporting by looking north to our friend, Canada. What makes Canada a great next step in your international sales effort? They speak English, they have the same international dialing code +1, and some Americans can see Canada outside their kitchen window, really! Seriously though, Canadians buy over $290 Billion in goods from U.S. companies which amounts to 19% of overall US exports There is little language barrier, English and French are official languages in Canada.  58.4% of Canadians are native English speakers, 22% are native French speakers, mostly in Quebec, which has a large dominant French speaking population. To enter this market product sold into Canada from the U.S. must have a bi-lingual label (English and French). Translating your labels and website will easily ensure successful entry into this and other markets.

Listed below are growth ideas to expand your markets and grow your revenues.

5 Dynamic International Growth Ideas

1.     Connect with local resources that will help with market research and more

a.     SBA International Trade Specialist

b.    U.S. Commercial Service International Trade Specialist

c.     SBDC International Trade Specialist

2.     Learn where your next customer is and how they will find you

a.     Infrastructure – Brazil, India, South Africa

b.    Industrial Manufacturer – Brazil, Mexico, Canada

c.     Health Care  - China

d.    Luxury Goods – Mexico

3.     Talk the Talk! Translation is low cost but high ROI

a.     Translate your website – this can grow your sales up to 40%. Be found on regional search engines like Baidu (China), Yandex (Russia) and Altavista (Brazil)

b.    Translate your marketing materials -  creates increased loyalty and trust

4.     YouTube – the second largest search engine in the world

a.     Create short videos about your product

                                                  i.    Add a voice-over in other languages to be found worldwide

5.     International Trade Shows – often you can team with the U.S. Commercial Service to go to these shows and sell your products at a lower cost than by yourself. They will also set up appointments with international buyers attending the show.

Growing your business internationally is easier than you think. Take advantage of the local resources that want to help you succeed in a global market. Your competition is already selling globally, you need to level the playing field and build globally.

About the Author:

Linda Richardson is the President and owner of All Clear Translations, LLC. They use translations and localization to transform websites, software, technical manuals and marketing materials into all languages to help increase sales. Their unique process can include Plain English to help companies increase understanding and comprehension while reducing translation and production costs of manuals. Their audio voice-over technologies enable spoken and written communication in many languages. Email Linda at linda@allcleartranslations and visit their website http://www.allcleartranslations.com.

Five Tips to a Successful International Trade Show Exhibit.

Five Tips for a Successful International Trade Show Exhibit

International trade shows offer terrific opportunities for growing and establishing your global contacts and clients. You will gain exposure to many potential international suppliers and colleagues, distributors and more in one place. Maximize your investment by following the tips below:

1.       Act Global – English may be considered a universal language (by Americans) but you could benefit greatly by having a translator present at your exhibit.

At a minimum, translate your marketing materials and product information into your prospective clients’ native languages. Translated presentations give an opportunity to potential international prospects to comprehend your product benefits and the technical details of your amazing product. Overall, allowing them to understand the value of you and your company.

This small addition to your marketing materials will make international guests feel welcome and respected. Even if you do not speak their language, if you attempt to communicate in their native tongue you will be held in much higher esteem.

2.       Mind your manners  - Welcome, welcome, welcome your visitors to your trade booth. Offer them comfort, they have been walking and talking to many exhibitors. They may be tired and hungry. Some cultures are insulted if they are not offered a snack, beverage or a seat while learning more about what you do. Example: if you visit a Danish company, you will be in an inviting space, offered tea and cookies and made to feel very welcome. Also, be aware and recognize the role of women in some cultures and act appropriately.

3.       Mirror body language - Americans are known to engage quickly, be matter of fact and “cut to the chase”. Some cultures are uncomfortable with that level of direct interaction.

o   Follow their lead – if they bow, bow, allow them to extend their hand, do not stare or make direct eye contact if they are not.

o   Try not to come off as strong and rude.  Engage them personally, small talk is big!

4.       Business cards – Company cards are essential and a valuable introduction. Again, create bi-lingual cards for your international prospects. Choose languages that are your targets’ or the domain country’s official language. Hand your card to the prospect with both hands; accept their card with both hands. Never write on the back of an associate’s card, this can be seen as very insulting and may even seal their minds that you are not getting the deal!

5.       Follow up personally - Send a hand written note to your prospective clients or suppliers thanking them for their time and information. If you promised to send information, include it. This simple act will create a strong buyer/seller relationship, create respect and build your sales!

You will have successful interactions, confidence and increased sales using these tips. Happy Hunting!

About the Author:

Linda Richardson is the President and owner of All Clear Translations, LLC. Their translations and localization transform websites, software, technical manuals and marketing materials into all languages helping to increase your sales. Their unique process can include Plain English to help companies increase understanding and comprehension while reducing translation and production costs of manuals. Their audio voice-over technologies enable spoken and written communication in many languages. Email Linda at linda@allcleartranslations and visit their website http://www.allcleartranslations.com

Europe could be your destination for your next tradeshow! Translate and be heard.

Europe - land of ever changing borders!

Click the link to view this video  Europe 1000AD to present day the changes that have happened over the last 1000+ years.

Today, Europe seems to be stabile and secure. Europe is more unified than in any other period of history

What are your thoughts?

Do you think we will see the changes, uprisings, etc in the future?

Europe is the destination for over 50% of Trade Conferences each year. Europe could be your place to shine! Make sure you are seen and understood.

 

 

guten Tag

 

Linda Richardson



 



Overcoming Language Barriers in the Workplace

Overcoming Language Barriers in the Workplace = Compliance

Industries with the greatest concentration of foreign workers

22% service

16% construction

20% manufacturing

Considerations to create a SAFER environment for all workers:

Language

Culture

Understanding

Example: Construction sites often have a large level of immigrants or ESL (English as a second language) workers. The lack of appropriate communication can pose a problem because the worker does not understand the safety measures must be followed.

a.  The worker is afraid to lose their job and will take unnecessary risks to keep their jobs. This fear needs to be addressed by company supervisors, officials and discussed in training materials.

b.  They do not comply with the safety instruction because it is not given to them in their own native language, the understanding is lost.

·   It is the company’s responsibility to properly train these workers, OSHA compliance mandates that the worker understands the safety instruction given.

How to better communicate to ESL workers:

·         Translations/translators

o   For better safety compliance with a culturally diverse workforce where English is a second language or not spoken, consider:

§  Provide individuals with a list of commonly used words and meanings that are not readily replaced by pictograms

§  Provide simple instructions and guidelines in the spoken languages of your workers.

§  Ensure that groups of workers who share a common culture and language have one of their own bilingual fellow employees to act as interpreters. This raises the level of engagement, understanding and communication for all involved.

·         Multilingual Training is required to be OSHA compliant.

§  Comprehension is greatly increased

§  Retention is greatly increased.

§  Reduces training costs because the understanding happens sooner.

§  Reduces injuries by raising the comprehension and retention of the materials.

o   Training can take a variety of forms:

§  Video with voice-overs is better than close captioning because of literacy level issues

§ Classroom training with a bi-lingual instructor or interpreter.

§ Training materials are written in the native speaker’s language

§ Testing should be done in the native speaker language, using written and oral examinations.

·    Understand the foreign workers’ culture – understanding the cultural beliefs of these workers will enable effective communications.

o   Some Considerations and Examples:

§  Does the worker believe if he/she complains, they will lose their job.

§  Asian and Mexican workers nod as a sign of respect, not necessarily in agreement or understanding.

§  Do not use a first name unless you were given permission

§  Mexicans are soft spoken and raised voices indicate to them anger.

o    Does the worker have religious beliefs that need to be addressed:

§  Holidays they observe

§  Gender issues: Muslim men do not shake hands with women; do not look in the face of women. This may be an issue if a supervisor or co-worker is a woman

§  Religious concerns include

· Times to pray -  must they stop pray during the day

· Times to eat - must they eat at certain times, certain areas, etc.

· Holidays observed

o   Facial Hair requirements can be accommodated instead of restricting it.

Example: instead of shaving it off or safety and health issues can he mask it to ensure food manufacturing processes are still safe and healthy can help people still do their work and maintain their cultural beliefs.

The Service Industry, Construction and Manufacturing have benefited by integrating foreign workers into their workforce.  For example, the Service Industry has greater than 22% foreign workers and is growing. Our economy will not grow and prosper without welcoming these valuable workers. Adding proper communication in many languages will strengthen the workforce and increase production and loyalty. 

About the Author

Linda Richardson is the President and Owner of All Clear Translations, LLC. They help American manufacturers increase export sales through localization services of websites, software, technical manuals and marketing materials. Please contact linda@allcleartranslations.com with new projects.

Lost In Translation: When Should You Translate Marketing Content? | SiriusDecisions Blog

Lost In Translation: When Should You Translate Marketing Content? | SiriusDecisions Blog

This article makes very good and valid points. One I would add is: if your intended audience searches in his/her native tongue then you should translate or risk not being found. Often translation is a minor cost to the revenues found.

Transcending Language Happens but can you Build a Global Business Without Translation?

What do you think? 

Some things transcend language like emotions, music, great art, amazing food, fantastic wine. BUT, you cannot grow business across regions without cross cultural communication. Use Russian, Spanish, French, Portuguese to communicate your ideas, solutions, products. Communicate your company's core values. Communicate who you are and what you do for others. You do not know where someone is looking for your solutions.Use language to bridge the gap.Create websites in other languages that will be found on search engines in new regions.  The science of language translation will enable you to reach your goals, solve someone's problems, meet a new client and build your vision, your goals and your company. 

Are you ready? We are - let's build something of global value together and celebrate the wonderfulness of you, your team and your business. 

Celebrations - understood in any language!



Hoping you have many celebrations this year!

Linda Richardson

James Russo Details Where Innovation is Happening in the World

http://www.nielsen.com/us/en/newswire/2013/where-in-the-world-is-innovation-.html

Check out the top countries for innovation

2012
United States
Great Britain
China
Brazil
France
Russian Federation

I expected Germany to top the list, didn't anticipate China to be third. Where are you selling your innovative products? Emerging markets like Sub Sahara Africa are looking for solutions. Who is looking for what you offer?

Expand your market Globally - you will amaze many new clients when they see what you offer. Translate your website and reach 3/4 more B2B consumers.

Ciao,
Linda Richardson

New Video Detailing Our Translation Products and Offerings

Click here to see Our latest and greatest video on translations.

Have you thought of entering new markets? Now that we are central to NE Ohio and Western PA we can easily visit 50% of the U.S. population within a day's drive.

Check out our new video and let us know what you think!

Best Regards,
Linda Richardson
President

Things To Consider When Writing Content For Translation and Localization

Often, we are asked to translate text for manuals that have been written long ago. Many times these manuals were written before the company ever thought about selling abroad and  communicating in other languages. Below is a list of things to consider when writing content in English that will - may be - probably will be translated. Remember as you grow your sales, your new clients are most likely located in another region, speaking another language.

5 Simple steps to remember when writing content to translate:

1. White space - most languages are 125% or larger than English. Create your content with enough room to accommodate the new languages.

2. Do not use hard returns. This makes it difficult for a translator to understand the content and create text that works within your space limitations. Sentence structure is different in other languages.

3. If you are selling into the Middle East, text orientation is right to left.

4. Keep it simple. Try to minimize your words using descriptions that are easily understood. This reduces confusion and cost to translate

5. Use formatting tools such as automatic numbering, bullets, lists, etc. These tools create a seamless word document that is more easily understood by translation tools and the translators themselves.

Consult your Language Service Provider. They are a great resource to help you create a document that is understood in any language, less costly to recreate into other languages and will reduce headaches for you.

Happy Writing!

Linda Richardson
All Clear Translations

www.allcleartranslations.com

Cheap Translations - This "Bargain" Could Cost Much

Today while cleaning out my old emails I came across a quote request from a prospective client. It made me think about value and what that means to people.  Here is a story that many of us selling a superior product run into. This client is a leader in their industry. They were looking for help with translations of training manuals. After due diligence and learning they have a customer service issue we formulated a plan to help in several ways.
1. Improve translation content
2. Improve customer service
3. Improved training information
4. Decrease cost of translation in the future
5. Decrease training costs
5. Decrease customer service calls

Where I hadn't done my due diligence was on what this company valued. I has several phone conversations with the quote-seeker and he was impressed with our in-depth analysis and believed they wanted to upgrade and blend their translations of website, training and online help. He hoped to work with us to help him produce a better product - great, right? Hold on there lassie....we did not get the work. How can that be? I did my due diligence, researched, met the key decision makers, created a plan that would increase customer satisfaction, decrease training costs and create a consistent message while reducing costs in the future. How can this be that we didn't get the work?

Cheap translations - I didn't think this would be an issue. I did not take into account the key decision makers only wanted the lowest cost. Their concern was not improving training, customer service or blending the message across platforms. Staying status quo and under budget was the only value this client was looking for. Obviously, we were not the service for this company. But it has helped me realize we cannot be a fit for every company.

Another client had a process of creating images, transferring them to a cumbersome platform and then trying to work within it to change and edit images for translation. For us to work within that software would have been more costly to the client in the long run. We proposed a solution of taking these images and creating them in a software that would enable easier translation and add all languages to one image. This would have an upfront cost but save the money and time for future work. This client thanked us for seeing this solution and authorized the work. Our value was realized by this client and verified our due diligence and efforts.

People focusing on a low cost "cheap" resource for translations will never value meeting future needs and goals. Translations is not a commodity nor is it easily discounted. What is valued is a unique and personal differentiator.  Be unique and maintain your value and differentiator clients are looking for a resource that can solve their problems now and in the future.

There is not one alive that is Youer than You ~ Dr. Seuss. Your process has value - stay the path.

Linda Richardson

CyberSecurity: What Does This Have to do with Translations?

Thought Leader - Eugene Kaspersky "In this industry, to be pessimistic is not professional"

Every now and again I am fortunate to come in contact with industry thought leaders.Last week I attended the 1st Inaugural Kaspersky Labs CyberSecurity Forum in Washington D.C. This forum was designed to help professionals in government and industry better understand the challenges we are encountering every day with cyber criminals.

Some of the thought leaders - speakers were:
Steve Orenberg and Eugune Kaspersky of Kaspersky Labs.
General Michael Hayden, Former Director of the CIA
Larry Zelvin Director National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center
Ronald Noble - Secretary General INTERPOL
Steve Winterfeld - Cyber Tech Director, TASC

My take away:
Kaspersky Labs is a tremendous resource for industry and government. Eugene Kaspersky is engaged and dynamic in his passion to help protect our IT resources. He made it possible to have a dialogue with industry experts to educate leaders of companies, government and education on this huge threat.

Cyberspace is the fifth domain of warfare! Do you know how much information is hacked on a minute by minute basis! Last February there was a global effort to hack into 42,000 records across 27 countries. 45 Million USD was stolen in ONE DAY.

There are 15,000 cyber hacker attacks per minute against American Banks.
When there is a campaign by a gang, the attacks have gone as high as 3 million per minute.
Largest Cyber Gang has 80,000 members!
Iran, Russia and China are where many of these attacks originate.

Now you may say, what does this have to do with translations? I help companies expand their markets into new developing regions. This requires a transfer of data, multilingual resources and information and trust. Trust that the information we protect is truly protected. Trust in vendors, employees, clients. To maintain the integrity of my clients information I will continue to learn more about this threat and how to best secure their assets we are entrusted with.

Also, I believe translating training manuals for customer service reps and online help guides needs to be accurate and add value to the material. The emphasis needs to be on increasing comprehension and understanding across platforms and languages. Companies purchasing localization and translation services should not be price driven but value driven. This will enable better training and understanding reducing training costs and customer misunderstanding.

I will update you on this blog with helpful information from what I learn. Together, we can continue to build a global marketplace and grow.

Wishing you much security in the cyberworld!

Linda Richardson
President

US Industrial Renaissance is Eroding Emerging Markets’ Competitive Edge | Enterprising Investor

US Industrial Renaissance is Eroding Emerging Markets’ Competitive Edge | Enterprising Investor

This article points to the fact that U.S. manufacturers are competitive with the Asian manufacturers that dominated in the last 2 decades.

With the reduced energy costs driven by the Natural Gas resources, we can grow our reach to other markets. Not only are we competitive but we are high quality. WinWin for all looking to build.

Mexico: Your Next Market? Translations Can Build Sales

Mexico - your next market!

Facts to think about

Mexico's GDP growth is over 4%

Mexicans spend 40% of the travel budget at the Mall. Their favorite destination country? The U.S.

Mexicans equate quality with U.S. goods and prefer to buy U.S. products like Skippy, Quaker Oats and Huggies over their own brands.

Luxury goods are hot, haute, hot. Looking for a new market? Mexicans love our cars, jewelry, clothing...

U.S. Health and Beauty products are very popular among Mexicans.

Mexico buys more U.S. products than Brazil, Chile, Latin America all combined.

Mexico is our 2nd biggest trade partner.

Mexico has more free trade agreements than any other country.

Need I say more? Read my May newsletter for more information on entering this new and exciting market.

Get Ready - Set - Grow with Translations!

Language Discussion at W & J University

Last Saturday I was a panelist for a discussion on language careers at Washington & Jefferson College and the Sigma Delta Pi Gamma Mu chapter in Washington, PA. This was the 1st annual panel and I found it to be a fun and interesting way to spend a Saturday afternoon.

The students were interested in studying abroad and how they can utilize language skills to develop a career path. I was intrigued by the availability of grants to help students there travel and experience other cultures. This is truly an education that no student should pass up. The opportunities to engage with others in different cultures opens a mind to new ways of thinking, acceptance of different ways of doing things and adds value to the travelers experiences in more ways than can be imagined.

The State of PA has more reps within country than any other state. These reps are located throughout the world and work to help you grow business in other regions. Many of our in-country PA state reps will be in Pittsburgh on May 6th and will accept appointments if you would like to meet them. Please see the 3rd link for more details! Businesses located in the commonwealth of PA are fortunate to have such amazing resources! Take advantage of it!

The below links are posted here for Hannah. She is traveling to China for 18 days and we discussed entering a very different culture. When traveling to a new region, know the U.S. resources there. The first link lists who to contact, where their offices are and tips for safe travel. I hope this helps you as you journey beyond our borders. Remember their are grants to help you translate your websites and marketing information to sell to other regions. Contact me for more details, together we can build sales! Get Ready...Set...Grow with Translation!

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1089.html         resources you should have when traveling.

http://www.travelchinaguide.com/essential/etiquette.htm       good website for info.

 

http://www.spcregion.org/plan_news.shtml#trade       PA China reps will be in Pittsburgh May 6th. You could make an appointment to meet them.

 

Zai Jian, (Goodbye)

 

Linda Richardson

President

All Clear Translations

A Novel Look at Emerging Entrepreneurs

A novel look at emerging entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurship is a hot topic everywhere. The Internet, connectivity and mobile platforms has changed the face of entrepreneurs. 25 years ago an entrepreneur was usually someone you knew, a face that was familiar. Your barber, shop owner, restaurant, insurance man. Now you can connect with small business all over the world.

Video is the new wave of marketing campaigns - Get Multilingual! Now you can reach everyone through translations!

 

 

 

We can get creative with you to connect with clients all over the world.

Need a multilingual video, there are online resources that we can use to create your amazing awesome video. Now you can affordably and easily be found by anyone ANYWHERE!

Check it out! Let's talk video translations for your next campaign.

Translating Tipping to International Guests

Last week I was attending PittCon in Philadelphia. I was enjoying breakfast at the Reading Market with a colleague at a small Amish counter for breakfast. Sitting beside us was a couple from Israel. They were discussing the bill and asked me whether "people like this" should be tipped.

Understandably, they do not know many of our customs in the U.S. Many regions in the world do not tip but add the wage in the bill. I explained that we customarily tip our wait staff and the appropriate tip is 15-20%.

 My Mistake:
The couple left the waitress $1 for her gratuity.  My mistake was not explaining to the couple why we tip and how essential it is for many service workers. Tipping enables you to show your appreciation for their service in a monetary way. In my past, I waitressed and I have 2 daughters that are working their way through school as waitresses. Much like a commissioned salesperson, wait staff are rewarded monetarily for upselling and offering excellent service.

My Correction:
I felt badly and left the waitress a 40% tip to compensate for the low gratuity left by the Israeli couple. As a translations expert, I realized I did not communicate the full value of gratuities and should have been more informative.

Don't let your message be truncated or lost in translation. Be sure the value of your product, brand, and service are being translated by professional experts. Your website and software translations are key to reaching new customers and helping current clients utilize the full value of your amazing expertise!

Hoping you are Growing Globally with Translations!

Linda Richardson

The Time is NOW! Sell in Emerging Markets to Grow your Manufacturing Business.

 By 2025 annual consumption in emerging markets will be better than 30 trillion USD. This statistic should make you think about your products and where they are needed. Perhaps China or South America are regions that you haven’t explored yet. These and other emerging markets offer manufacturers new revenue streams.

Middle class growth in many countries means increased consumers are probably looking for or using a product such as yours. Consumers around the world value American made goods because of the quality and status symbol they impart.

What are these new middle class consumers buying? Now that they have discretionary income, they are looking at automobiles, appliances, electronics, luxury goods, and have increased awareness of healthcare goods.

How to develop a new market? There are many steps you can take to develop a new market and a few are discussed here.

·         Find a region that has need for your product. Focus on growth clusters. Introduce your product in a growing urban area. Some emerging cities are growing up to 20 % or better per year. Sao Paulo is a good example of a burgeoning city. Many 2^nd tier cities are experiencing double digit growth and have need of services and goods to service their population

·         Innovate! Adding diversity to your marketing efforts cannot happen without research. Know your market. What are their likes, values, tendencies? Does your current marketing make sense in this region? Invest in a cultural assessment that will look at your product, brand and image and help you understand if your new target understands the value you offer. . Perhaps your product is selling like hotcakes t in the U.S. but needs to be updated or changed to better meet needs in other cultures. R & D can save you thousands or tens of thousands dollars investing in a region that doesn’t match your products target.

·         Build relationships. In-country resources will be invaluable in helping you navigate your new market. They help you with introductions, find office space, and other valuable insights that only living there and  connecting there can provide. The US Commercial Service has a Gold Key Program that helps you build your connections in other countries. The State of PA has 54 representatives throughout the world, feet on the street in-country to help you build a successful business there. The state of Ohio and other states have resources to help you navigate a new international market. The Small Business Development Council offers Global mentoring and is in many major cities and universities.

·         Exhibit at international trade conferences. Many of the resources listed above offer trade missions to international markets. You can travel with representatives who help you set up meetings, travel arrangements, etc. At some large international trade conferences, you can participate as a vendor in their state or US booth. Connect with these valuable resources to help you understand and successfully start your international sales.

·         STEP Grants: These grants vary with states and you may qualify for grants up to $15,000 to finance translations, trade shows, etc. to develop your international sales.

·         Research and Development: NAMII is now located in Youngstown, OH. Additive Manufacturing has reduced the cost and time of developing prototypes and will continue to impact our innovations in manufacturing. The Oh-Penn region is a prime example of growth in manufacturing. Innovative technologies like the ones developed at NAMII (National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Institute) coupled with our low energy costs are helping manufacturing become stronger, grow and enrich lives throughout the world.

·         Last but not least, translate your information. You want to be found, right? 56.2 percent of consumers say that the ability to obtain information in their own language is more important than price..

The resources listed below are here to help us develop our products and sell them throughout the world. These agencies are generous with sharing their knowledge. Take a webinar, workshop or seminar on exporting, you will find it a gateway to great possibilities.

Federal and State Resources:

www.namii.org

www.trade.gov                  U.S. Commercial Service

www.sba.gov

http://www.sba.gov/content/us-export-assistance-centers

http://www.sba.gov/about-offices-content/1/2889/resources/14315 - STEP grant information

http://export.gov/salesandmarketing/

http://exportingpa.org/

www.nwcommission.org             www.swrdc.org   Regional Economic Development Centers in W PA

http://development.ohio.gov/bs/bs_globalohio.htm

About the Author:

Linda Richardson is the President of All Clear Translations. Her team helps companies increase sales through translation and localization services in all major languages. Areas of expertise include websites, software, technical manuals and marketing materials. A new technology they employ is computer generated voice overs in many languages. Companies can now use current video with additional languages provided by All Clear Translations. Another unique service includes Plain English to help companies increase understanding and comprehension while reducing translation costs of safety and operating manuals and information. She is certified in Localization and Project Management for Localization through The Localization Institute of California State University.

Where to find Linda Richardson

March 18-19 PittCon Philadelphia

March 20 NW PA Commission, Erie, PA

March 27 I79 Development Corridor, Dy-Net

April 20 Washington and Jefferson University, Panelist for International Growth

May 20 AAPG Conference