Did you know that 70% of Internet users prefer to browse the web in their native language? And the vast majority of online searches is conducted in languages other than English?

Are you still convinced that using only one language on your website is the way to go?

 Well, let’s break down the benefits of a multilingual website:

1.    You’ll gain trust and loyalty of your customers

In many cultures Internet users tend to be cautious when it comes to buying products and services online, especially if no information is available in their native language. Once they have an access to a local version of the website, their uncertainty decreases and your company is more likely to attract new customers. Plus, a website in multiple languages is a sign that your company cares about the needs of your potential customers, which builds loyalty and trust.

2.    You’ll gain a competitive advantage

You can easily differentiate yourself from competitors by offering a website in many languages. If your competitors already offer multiple languages, then you might be losing your international customers who prefer to buy from a company who cares about their language needs.

3.    You’ll increase web ranking in foreign search engines

There are countries, such as China or Russia, where domestic search engines are still very popular, as they cater for needs of the local users and provide results in their native language. That’s why your translated and localised website will be more likely to rank higher in such countries. Even if the most popular international search engines are used, but the search is restricted to a specific language, your translated website will still show up in the results.

4.    You’ll be perceived as an international partner

No matter if you’re a one-person business or a big company, your multilingual website will show that you think and work on the international scale. It will be a clear sign that you’re ready to cooperate with international partners.

 5.    You’ll boost your sales

Finally, the most lucrative benefit of the website available in multiple languages is the boost in sales of products and services. With more languages and potential customers the chances of growing your revenue significantly increase. According to the study run by Common Sense Advisory  60 % of non-native English speakers never buy from English sites and about 50 % prefer to buy in their native language. There is also a strong correlation between the amount of time spent on websites with a local language version and ordering products or services from such website.

All in all, a website available in more than one language can open your door to new opportunities and be your ticket to international success.

Dorota Pawlak

Dorota helps digital brands infuse their content with a local touch. She is a localization consultant, translator specialized in IT, prompt engineer, and a book author. Dorota teaches online courses on localization, writes for her blog and a Medium publication. She also runs a Small Biz AI, a Substack newsletter for freelancers and small business owners ready to discover handy AI tools.