Did you know that 64% of global companies say language barriers affect their business? Now, imagine you are hosting an event where attendees come from all over the world. How would you feel about facing language barriers? It would be a challenge, but don’t worry.
We will share tips for hosting a successful event even when all attendees speak different languages. Along the way, we will also master some key language terminologies. So, let’s get started and make your event a success.
5 Tips To Host A Flawless Multilingual Event
In today’s era of digitalisation, relocating your business due to a language barrier is no longer an option. Thus, if you are hosting an event for a diverse, multilingual audience, don’t worry. We have five foolproof tips to help you host a seamless multilingual event.
1. Understand Your Target Audience
First and most importantly, try to understand your audience attending your event. Knowing their language preferences is vital to creating harmony. You may use pre-event surveys or registration forms to gather this data. Consider questions like:
- What is their primary language?
- The level of fluency in the event’s main language.
- Need for translation or interpretation services.
You may use tools like Google Forms and Survey Monkey for the survey. Over 70% of event attendees report higher satisfaction when events care about their language preference. This will help create a smooth experience for them.
Key Terms Related
- Source Language: The original language of the content.
- Target Language: The language into which the content is being translated.
This is the first step to building trust among your attendees and prioritising them. When attendees feel their language is valued, they are more likely to appreciate and engage.
2. Choose The Right Language For Virtual Events
The second step is to contact the best interpreter services provider. According to a survey, events using real interpreters see 35% better audience engagement than those relying on AI tools alone.
Moreover, with technology assistance, you may lose the human touch. It is always important to use real interpreters for events to ensure accuracy and cultural nuances for many people. Some basic types of interpretations that may work for you are:
2.1 Simultaneous Interpreters
Interpreters work in real time via headsets. They are pretty important for large events that require live and spoken translations. For example:
- Discussions
- Q&A sessions
- Speeches.
2.2 Consecutive Translators
They are ideal for small gatherings where the speaker pauses for translations. Also, for written materials like agendas, presentations, and signages, translators are helpful.
2.3 Proofreaders or Document Translators
To review and double check the translated materials for errors or cultural inaccuracies.
Pro Tip: Hire an interpreter familiar with your industry. For example, if it’s a tech conference, then an interpreter should be familiar with it.
3. Invest In Multilingual Friendly Technology
It is always advised not to leave any stone unturned and to invest in the best interpreting equipment rental. Also, using the right technology helps you save time and ensure your event runs smoothly. There is a list of must-have online multilingual event tools:
- Zoom: It offers live interpretation features for virtual events.
- Interprefy: This is also a popular tool that links with event platforms to interpret.
- Lingmo: AI-powered translation for live chats and networking.
Moreover, some of the onsite interpreting equipment you should know are:
- Headsets and receivers for simultaneous interpretations
- Tablets with preloaded multilingual guides.
Believe it or not, investing in multilingual tools can boost attendee retention by 20-30% for virtual events.
4. Cater To Cultural Sensitivities
Do you want to make your event more successful? You have to take another step further in translations. Make it more local and connect with your audience in a new way.
Localisation is more than just translating words. It’s about adapting your content to fit cultural contexts. This becomes more crucial for the marketing material, presentations, and videos.
“Translation converts words, but localisation adapts meaning.”
You would agree that a joke in one language might not work in another. That is where tailoring your content according to locale works. Thus, to make your event a success, you need both.
What Does Localisation Look Like?
For example, a marketing tagline like “Break a Leg” might confuse non-native speakers. Rephrasing it to “Best of Luck” might work, on the other hand. Thus, to make sure your content is aligning well, try the following:
Content: Try to adjust Humor, Idioms, and cultural references.
Visuals: Choose images and colours that don’t offend or alienate specific cultures.
Food & Entertainment: Reflect your audience’s cultural tastes through food, etc.
Some key terms to know here are:
Localisation: Adapt your content as per cultural norms.
Transcreation: Translate creatively to preserve meanings and emotions.
5. Plan Your Communication & Train Team For Hiccups
Lastly, it is always essential to have a backup plan and train your team for the glitches. Run a full rehearsal to test translation devices, microphones, and slides. Also, brief your interpreters or tech team on the event flow. Below is the critical checklist you should do:
- Testing all interpretation equipment.
- All online integrated tools for translation.
- Check internet speed for virtual platforms.
- Simulate different scenarios and build a backup plan.
Related Key Language Terminologies
Your team needs to be as prepared as your interpreters. It might sound extra, but a slight misunderstanding can snowball into a major disruption.
Key Language Terms
Glossary: A list of critical terms for consistent interpretation.
Back Translation: Re translation into the original language to check the accuracy.
Bottom Line
We understand that hosting an international event is no easy task. Catering to everyone’s needs and keeping them engaged requires brief planning. With these five tips, you will be ready to conquer this challenge.
Remember that a successful multilingual event is not just about translation. Rather, it’s about creating an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome, understood, and valued.
