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.
I am helping promote International Translation Day as trading globally and exporting into new foreign markets with the current value of the pound has become a credible opportunity for many regional businesses. Although, 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.We must remember that 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.
Further information on International Translation Day can found at the International Federation of Translators’ website: www.fit-ift.org. Information and advice on exporting can be obtained from UK Trade & Investment; www.ukti.gov.uk.
