In the world of international marketing and communication, two terms that are often used interchangeably are content localization and content translation. While both involve adapting content for use in different geographic and cultural contexts, they are not the same thing.

Content localization, on the other hand, involves adapting content so that it resonates with a specific cultural or regional audience. It goes beyond just translating words and takes into account the norms, customs, and preferences of the target market. This can involve changing images, colors, and even the tone of the content to ensure it’s well-received.

Content translation is the process of converting written or spoken content from one language to another. This is a straightforward process that involves finding the right words and grammar to convey the same message in a different language. While it’s a crucial step for reaching audiences in different markets, it doesn’t account for the cultural nuances and differences that can impact how the message is received.

Why is content localization important for B2B marketing and communication?

In today’s global business landscape, it’s crucial for B2B companies to be able to communicate effectively with clients and partners in different countries. Content localization helps companies connect with their target audience in a meaningful way, building trust and strengthening relationships.

For example, a company looking to expand into the China market would need to take into account the local language, cultural norms, and business practices to effectively communicate its message. This could involve adapting marketing materials, website content, and even sales pitches to resonate with the target audience.

Case study:

HARTING

Localized storytelling to position HARTING’s products as industry standard

IM developed a localized and interactive content strategy using comics for HARTING to showcase their superior industrial connectivity solutions, supporting China’s smart economy growth to decision makers.

How to do professional localization for an overseas company entering the China market?

When it comes to localizing content for the China market, there are a few key strategies to keep in mind:

• Hire a local team: To ensure your content resonates with the target audience, it’s crucial to have a team on the ground in China that understands the local culture, language, and business practices.
• Adapt your content: This can involve more than just translating words. Consider using images and colors that are culturally appropriate, and adjust your tone and messaging to reflect the local business climate.
• Be sensitive to cultural differences: Take the time to understand the cultural norms and values of your target audience. This can help you avoid miscommunications and cultural misunderstandings.
• Optimize for local search engines: If you’re looking to build a digital presence in the China market, it’s crucial to optimize your content for local search engines like Baidu.

Case study:

Riskified

Building a Market Leadership from Scratch in China with Go-Global Merchants

Riskified gained a prominent position in the Chinese market, wining major Chinese brands as clients with our localized communication strategy.

In conclusion, content localization is a crucial part of international marketing and communication. By adapting your content to resonate with your target audience, you can build trust and strengthen relationships, ultimately driving business success. At Influence Matters, we help overseas businesses thrive locally by providing localization services that cater to the local market. With years of accumulated professional experience, we carefully consider communication strategies and the content of external publicity efforts.