Spelling Errors Cost Companies Millions in Lost Sales

Posted On July 21, 2011By TranspanishIn English Language, Languages, Tips for Translators, Translation Buyers/ No Comments

Poor grammar, errant punctuation, and typographical errors all spell disaster for online sales. When it comes to Internet sales and marketing, shoddy websites filled with spelling gaffes rarely get a second chance to impress. In fact, most visitors make up their minds about the quality of a website in just six seconds. According to British Internet entrepreneur Charles Duncombe, just one spelling error on a company’s website can lead to a 50% decrease in online sales. He estimates that Internet retailers lose millions every week due to spelling slip-ups.

Consumers look to attention to detail in spelling and grammar as important indicators of a website’s credibility. Spelling mistakes and poor grammar sound alarm bells for potential customers concerned about spam or phishing. While there seems to be a more tolerant attitude toward spelling and grammar mistakes on social media sites such as Facebook, websites marketing products and services can’t afford to take a lax approach to spelling blunders.

For more information on this story, visit BBC News.

Translating for Non-profits

Posted On July 15, 2011By TranspanishIn Languages, Latinos, Portuguese Language, Spanish Language, Spanish Translation, Translation Buyers/ No Comments

Non-profit organizations and NGOs focus on improving the lives of others through diverse initiatives targeted at issues such as housing, social welfare, the environment, health care, education and human rights. These organizations typically require translation services to effectively explain their vision to a global audience, carry out their campaigns and fundraising efforts, and to communicate with those whom their programs benefit and serve. The social impact of materials translated for non-profit organizations must be carefully considered, along with the fact that virtually all agencies of this type function under budgetary constraints.

In the United States alone, there are hundreds, if not thousands, of non-profit organizations taking action to better the lives of the Latino community through their programs and initiatives. Non-profit organizations aimed at serving Hispanics are particularly vital to recent immigrants, who benefit from assistance without the difficulty of the language and culture barrier. Some of the largest non-profits devoted to the U.S. Hispanic community include the ASPIRA Association, Hispanic Housing Development Corp., the National Council of La Raza, and the Hispanic Scholarship Fund.

Non-profit agencies are particularly involved in South America, with many organizations choosing to focus on Brazil. The non-profit sector in Brazil is expanding, with U.S. companies such as Walmart supporting philanthropic activities in Brazil as a means to establish a presence in this fast-growing, influential economy. It’s essential for Brazilian non-profit organizations looking to solicit donations from corporate entities and foundations abroad to translate their materials from Portuguese.

A non-profit organization in its initial stages may have little to no budget for translation services. In this case, non-profits will sometimes connect with student translators or linguists just starting their careers who are in need of “résumé builders.” Experienced translators – who are likelier to turn out a high quality translation – often work for more established NGOs or non-profit agencies at reduced rates, as a way to give something back to the community.

If you’re a representative of a non-profit organization or NGO, click here to learn more about Transpanish’s discounted translation rate for non-profits.

The Meaning of Yeta

Posted On July 7, 2011By TranspanishIn Lunfardo, Spanish Language/ No Comments

Argentine Spanish is strewn with words and colorful phrases from Lunfardo, a rich vocabulary born on the streets of Buenos Aires in the second half of the 19th century. Now considered a fixture of the Spanish language in Argentina (especially in and around Buenos Aires) and Uruguay, linguists cite the use of Lunfardo as a defining characteristic of the Rioplatense dialect. Add a dash of Argentine flavor to your Spanish vocabulary with the Transpanish blog’s ongoing feature highlighting some of the most frequently used terms in Lunfardo.

In Lunfardo, the word “yeta” refers to a jinx; something or someone who brings bad luck. Experts in Lunfardo believe that the word “yeta” is derived from the words “jettatura” and “jettatore” of the Neapolitan dialect of Italian, meaning “evil influence” or “a man whose presence brings harm or bad luck to others.” Given that the word “yeta” initially gained popularity with the working class, it’s difficult to say when its use became widespread among all Buenos Aires residents; however, the first instances of this slang term in the written word crop up in 1915.

Related words in Lunfardo: enyetar, yetar, yetado, yetadura

In addition, jeta occasionally appears as an alternate spelling of yeta.

Usage examples: Victims of bad luck might exclaim, “¡Qué yeta!” instead of “¡Qué mala suerte!”

The word “yeta” turns up in the lyrics of the tango “Preparate pa’l domingo” by José Rial and Guillermo Barbieri.

Preparate pa’l domingo si querés cortar tu yeta;
tengo una rumbiada papa que pagará gran sport.
Me asegura mi datero que la corre un buen muñeca
y que paga, por lo menos, treinta y siete a ganador.
Vos no hagás correr el yeite, atenete a mis informes;
dejá que opinen contrario “Jornada” y “La Razón”.
Con mi dato pa’l domingo podés llamarte conforme…
Andá preparando vento; cuanto más vento, mejor.

How to Find Work as a Translator

Posted On July 4, 2011By TranspanishIn Spanish Translation, Tips for Translators/ No Comments

Connect with Potential Employers Online

The websites ProZ and TranslatorsCafé, specifically geared toward the translation industry, provide access to directories of translation agencies to which you can offer your services. Both sites feature job search boards for translators working in hundreds of different language combinations. In addition to the various sites targeted directly at translators, social media sites such as LinkedIn and Twitter offer sources of job opportunities. Regardless of which sites you use, make sure you complete your profile and connect with both translators and agencies to maximize your chances of landing a gig. Click here for Twitter tips for translators.

Networking Face to Face

Actively networking and seeking out off-line relationships with other translators can reap rewards in terms of generating leads. Consider joining one of the many professional societies for translators, and attend professional development events and seminars whenever possible. Translators on ProZ also organize get-togethers (powwows) where you can meet colleagues and possibly make professional contacts that will bring you work.

Spread the Word

Promoting your translation services through word of mouth remains one of the best methods for capturing new clients. Let family and friends know you are looking for work, and keep a stack of business cards on hand to distribute to potential clients.

Develop a Niche

Translation agencies and direct clients frequently look for translators with specialized, content-specific expertise. If you do not currently have a niche, you ought to consider developing one to be more competitive.

Send out Résumés

Send emails to translation agencies and include your résumé/CV and website information. In the case of a local agency, make the extra effort to go in person and introduce yourself with résumé in hand. Make sure that your résumé is free of spelling and grammatical errors, which are unprofessional under any circumstances but particularly lethal if you are a linguist. Visit our post Résumé Writing Tips for Translators.

Consider Freelance vs. In-house

Freelance translation provides freedom, flexibility and variety. Since you are the boss, you have the option of picking and choosing those projects that best suit your skills and interests. In addition, savvy freelancers who market themselves effectively can pick up clients from around the globe. However, freelancing requires the translator to wear all sorts of hats; you will be responsible for everything from accounting to advertising. Working at home also demands a lot of discipline that not everyone can muster. Get more information about working as a freelance translator here.

In-house translators generally work a fixed, full-time schedule at a company. These positions offer the promise of guaranteed income and a steady flow of projects, plus a support team at the company that takes care of all the logistics that a freelancer must manage alone. In-house translation positions allow linguists to acquire lots of experience, but translators in this environment generally focus on just one subject.

Hispanic Employees in the Workplace

Posted On June 25, 2011By TranspanishIn Languages, Latinos, Spanish Language, Spanish Translation, Translation Buyers/ No Comments

Hispanic participation in the workplace continues to grow, with Latino workers accounting for 15% of the U.S. workforce in 2010, according to U.S. Department of Labor statistics. Latinos are projected to make up 18% of the total American workforce by 2018. Working in industries such as construction, manufacturing, hospitality, and agriculture, Latinos make an important contribution to the U.S. economy.

Although one can safely generalize to a certain degree about Hispanic culture, employers must recognize that Spanish-speaking workers hail from a number of different countries, each with its own culture and norms. Employers who make the effort to personally connect with their Hispanic employees, showing that they are valued and respected, will reap benefits in the end.

One way that employers, particularly supervisors, can demonstrate their commitment to Hispanic workers is by taking the time to learn basic Spanish. When communicating with employees, it is best to avoid the use of slang words, since their meanings can vary widely from country to country. In addition, employers should take care when using hand gestures, as they can sometimes be misinterpreted by those coming from a different cultural background.

Employers should be wary of imposing discriminatory language policies on Latino employees. Valuing Hispanic workers’ culture and the Spanish language builds an atmosphere of respect between employer and employees, rather than one of inferiority and isolation. Employees should be allowed to speak Spanish at work, particularly while on break. By refusing Latino employees the right to communicate in Spanish, employers deny them the ability to express their cultural heritage on the job.

According to the report “The Hispanic Labor Force in the Recovery,” in 2009 Hispanic workers experienced the highest rate of work-related fatal injuries at 3.7 incidents per 100,000 full time equivalent workers, compared to 3.4 for whites and 3.0 for blacks.” In light of this statistic, the availability of Spanish-language materials for Hispanic employees, including manuals, handbooks, and safety information should be a top priority for employers.

Due to the language barrier, literacy and other limitations, Hispanic workers are sometimes more difficult to reach through traditional means of communication. Hence, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) requires employers to present information concerning workers’ rights, safety and health training materials, information and instructions in a language that employees can understand. Materials should be translated by a professional Spanish translation service – not just a bilingual employee – and it is best to use neutral Spanish, as terminology often differs from one country to another.

Additionally, Latino workers respond well to training conducted in person, with ample use of visual aids. In situations where large amounts of complex verbal information must be relayed to employees (e.g. training sessions, safety meetings), consider hiring a Spanish interpreter to ensure maximum comprehension.

With ethnic diversity and the inclusion of Latinos in the American workplace part of the new reality, the business community, workplace trainers and human resource personnel must develop an improved understanding of and sensitivity to language barriers and cultural differences. In the end, these efforts will enable businesses to stay competitive by supporting a productive, stable and safe workforce.

1The Hispanic Labor Force in the Recovery, United States Department of Labor

How Translators Can Protect Their Vision

Posted On June 18, 2011By TranspanishIn Did you know?, Tips for Translators/ No Comments

Translators spend hours and hours each day plugging away at their work in front of a flickering computer screen. The pressure of deadlines often leads translators – and other professionals who work long hours in front of a monitor – to sit for extended periods without resting their eyesight. Unfortunately, this unhealthy behavior may lead to permanent damage to your vision, including the eye disorder glaucoma.

In addition to heavy computer use, screen flicker rate, glare, reflections and/or a poorly lit work environment place stress on your vision. This visual stress may manifest itself as eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, dryness or irritation of the eyes, double vision, or trouble seeing at a distance after a prolonged session in front of the computer.

So, what can translation professionals do to protect their vision? Eye exercises, modifications to your workstation, regular breaks, and appropriate lighting are all steps you can take to avoid the symptoms listed above and maintain good eye health. Get more excellent tips for preventing and relieving computer eyestrain here.

Target an Audience of 650 Million with Spanish and Portuguese Translations

Posted On June 15, 2011By TranspanishIn Brazilian Market, English Language, Languages, Latinos, Portuguese Language, Spanish Language, Spanish Translation, Translation Buyers/ 1 Comment

As the competition in the global marketplace heats up, companies without a strategy for connecting with customers worldwide face a strong possibility of getting left behind. Savvy companies and organizations stand to capture upwards of a combined 650 million potential customers by incorporating Spanish and Portuguese translation into their business strategy. As the influence and economic power of emerging Spanish and Portuguese-speaking markets continues to grow, companies that invest in high-quality translations to target this audience will see dividends.

Spanish is the most widely spoken of the Romance languages, both in terms of the number of speakers and the number of countries in which it is the dominant language. With approximately 400 million native speakers worldwide, Spanish is currently the second most widely spoken language overall. At present, Portuguese ranks sixth among the world’s major languages, with some 250 million native speakers around the world. Portuguese and Spanish are both recognized by UNESCO as the fastest growing of the European languages.

Why Spanish Translation?

The expanding presence of the Spanish language coupled with increased Latino buying power has cemented the Hispanic demographic’s influence in the United States. U.S. Latinos‘ buying power is expected to reach $1 trillion this year. Given the Hispanic market’s incredible growth, size, and increasing purchasing power, businesses and organizations cannot afford to overlook this segment of the population.

As the emerging markets of Latin America, particularly Chile, Mexico, Colombia and Peru, gain a stronger foothold, they become increasingly attractive sources of new clientele for those businesses looking to target new audiences. A well-crafted, Spanish translation done by a professional translator will help corporations and organizations communicate with the Hispanic community, both at home and abroad, to take advantage of the business opportunities provided by these rapidly expanding markets.

Why Portuguese Translation?

Over the last twenty years, Brazil has steadily grown to become Latin America’s largest economy. With a robust economic outlook and a population of about 190 million people, companies can no longer ignore Brazil. Given the country’s strong, stable currency and a growing middle class with a hunger for imported goods, reaching the Brazilian market appears to be more crucial than ever before for businesses. Although Brazil is the sole Portuguese-speaking country in the Americas, approximately one-half of South America’s inhabitants speak the language. In today’s global economy, it pays to be able to communicate effectively with the Portuguese-speaking population.

Brazil also expects a significant tourism boost over the next few years as the country plays host to two major international sporting events: the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2016 Summer Olympic Games. Translation from Portuguese to a host of other languages will be necessary to accommodate the scores of foreign athletes, tourists and journalists who will descend upon Brazil for these events.

Translate for the Spanish and Portuguese markets to extend your business’ or organization’s reach, and connect with everyone from the customers right in your backyard to those in the far-flung corners of Latin America.

Are you looking for a Portuguese Translator? Visit TransPortuguese.
Are you looking for a Spanish Translator? Visit Transpanish.

Most endangered languages in the World

Posted On June 6, 2011By TranspanishIn Did you know?, Languages, Tips for Translators/ 1 Comment

An endangered language is defined as any language that children will probably not be speaking them in 100 years. Here are the top ten most at risk languages:

1. Apiaca: Brazil

This language and way of life is threatened by the gradual creep of Portuguese into the Mato Grosso region. In 2007, the language only appeared to have one remaining speaker. This in spite of an ethnic population hovering around 192 people.

2. Bikya: Cameroon

This language might actually be extinct without ethnographers knowing it. The last contact with the only known Biyka speaker occurred in 1986. The remaining speaker also happened to be the last known Bikya in the country.

3. Taje: Sulawesi

This Austronesian language, also known as Petapa, was apparently only spoken by one person in 2000. It’s entirely plausible that it may have passed into extinction since then, but no linguist or ethnographer knows for certain.

4. Dampelas: Sulawesi

UNESCO claims that only one of the 10,300 Dampelas peoples spoke the Austronesian language as of 2000, meaning it may very well be extinct by now.

5. Diahoi: Brazil

As of 2006, there was only one Diahoi speaker in the world. Hailing from the Amazon region of Brazil, Diahoi is also known as Jiahui, Jahoi, Djahui, Diahkoi and Diarroi. Because of the isolated location, linguists and ethnographers don’t know for certain whether or not the language has become officially extinct.

Continue reading in The Telegraph

Bilingualism Delays Onset of Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted On June 3, 2011By TranspanishIn Languages, Spanish Language, Tips for Translators, Translation Buyers/ 1 Comment

Ellen Bialystok, a cognitive neuroscientist and research professor of psychology, has made the study of bilingualism her life’s work. After nearly 40 years of research, she has discovered that regularly speaking two languages offers a number of benefits, including a delay in the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.

Dr. Bialystok found that there’s a significant difference between monolinguals and bilinguals in terms of how they process language. Bilingualism sharpens the mind’s ability to maintain multiple pieces of information in play and switch between them, effectively improving one’s multitasking skills.

A study published by Dr. Bialystok in 2004 showed that normally aging monolingual individuals experience a more pronounced loss of cognitive functioning than their normally aging bilingual counterparts. In later studies, the records of 400 Alzheimer’s patients were examined. The findings revealed that while bilingualism didn’t prevent Alzheimer’s disease, those who spoke two languages manifested symptoms five to six years later than the monolinguals.

For more information, read “The Bilingual Advantage” on NYTimes.com.

Dirae: The Latest Tool to Search for Terms in Spanish

Posted On May 27, 2011By TranspanishIn Languages, Latinos, Spanish Language, Spanish Translation, Tips for Translators, Translation Buyers/ No Comments

Spanish speakers and students of the Spanish language now have one more handy tool at their disposal. The Real Academia Española (RAE) – the official institution responsible for policing the Spanish language – recently released the online tool known as Dirae, based on the RAE’s Diccionario de la lengua española (Spanish language dictionary). Unlike traditional dictionaries, Dirae functions as a reverse dictionary, enabling users to find words based on a set of general concepts.

Using carefully chosen search terms, Dirae also functions as an associative thesaurus, etymological search tool, and synonym finder. For example, by entering the search terms “‘del quechua’ maíz,” the tool will return Spanish words etymologically based in the Quechua language that are related to corn. Read more about this new tool and view examples of its use here [in Spanish].

Our Blog