Do you want to better connect with Latinos and other immigrant groups?
We created this guide for nonprofit organizations that develop content to educate their audiences about their services and — ultimately — to encourage behavior that transforms lives.
This guide will make it easier to navigate the complex process of content and translations, from developing a content strategy to determining whom you should hire, to getting the most from the translations that you have. We’ll help you through the translation process so that you can use your limited resources to more effectively reach diverse communities. If we have missed a question, please feel free to email us at info@hookmultilingual.com
Table of Content
1. The importance of nonprofit translations
2. Hispanic, Latino, or Latinx?
3. Is it culturally relevant?
4. 13 important translation terms
5. To translate or create
6. Keep it in style
7. In search of the perfect translator
8. Speaking the same language
9. Because quality matters
10. We’ve got translations . . . now what?
1. The importance of nonprofit translations
Nonprofit translations play a crucial role in ensuring effective communication and expanding the reach and impact of nonprofit organizations.
2. Hispanic, Latino or Latinx?
Many of our clients want to know the difference and which is more politically correct. We break down the differences between the three.
3. Is it culturally relevant?
Most organizations opt to translate content that they’ve already developed. It’s cheaper and faster. With just a few tweaks you can usually ensure that your images and messages are culturally relevant (see post about transcreation).
4. 13 important translation terms
One key to working with any industry is understanding its jargon. Here are terms explaining the translation process.
5. To translate or create
Given that most nonprofits have tight budgets, you don’t need to translate all of your organization’s written material. Prioritize. You can develop a content marketing strategy for your Spanish content by answering six questions.
6. Keep it in style
Much like a brand style guide, a translation style guide will help you improve the quality and consistency of your translations. The guide should spell out your organization’s preferred language elements, such as voice, tone and syntax.
7. In search of the perfect translator
Translation rates can vary widely depending on whether you use an individual or an agency. Rates range from 5 to 50 cents per word or from $10 to $50 an hour.
8. Speaking the same language
Dozens of distinct varieties and dialects of the Spanish language are used around the world and in the United States.
9. Because quality matters
The first step in creating a high-quality translation is ensuring that you have a high-quality source document (meaning the English version in most cases). Before sending it to a translation team, review the English text for readability and clarity.
10. We’ve got translations . . . now what?
Translating content is an important first step. But you want to ensure that your target audience sees the translations. Just as you would develop a plan to promote any new product, you should have one for your translations.