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How to Choose a Language Service Provider

Where does one even begin when looking for language services? There are a lot of different aspects one should consider when searching for a provider to fill their language needs, though some are more important than others. Let’s take a look at what should be top priority in your search to make sure you choose the right provider for you.

Where to Start

You may be wondering “when is it appropriate to use a language service provider?”. Some instances where you should provide translations or an interpreter include:

  • if you know that there is a significant non-English speaking sector of your target market
  • if you work with individual clients and would like the ability to work with non-English speakers
  • if you know a significant portion of your workforce is non-English speaking

Know What You’re Looking For

Most language service providers offer both translation and interperting services, but sometimes they are stronger in one than the other. It is important to know the difference between these two types of services.


Translation services involve the translation of written documents.

Interpreting refers to on-site and over-the-phone interpretations.

Key Factors

Here are a few factors to look for when scoping out language service providers:

  • Reliability
  • Accessibility
  • Efficiency
  • Quality
  • Certifications.

Reliability

It is important to make sure your language service provider is reliable, meaning they make deadlines and follow through with commitments. Professional translation and interpreting services often have higher reliability than individuals since they have a wide network of translators and interpreters, in a variety of languages, to make sure your requests get taken care of.  

Accessibility

This quality is particularly important for when an interpreter is needed in-person. You want to have a provider who has interpreters available near you and therefore can guarantee someone will be able to be where you need them, when you need them.

Efficiency

It can be difficult but rewarding to find a provider who is able to respond to requests quickly. You may find yourself in situations where an urgent document needs translation, or a last minute meeting requires an interpreter to be present, and you want to make sure your provider doesn't let you down.

Quality

Another reason it can be best to use a professional language service provider is to ensure quality translations and interpretations. It's best to use a provider who's translators and interpreters have knowledge of the cultural context of the languages they provide, this makes sure messages remain in-tact and meanings are conveyed accurately between languages. 

Qualifications and Certifications

Make sure you have a provider who uses translators and interpreters who are qualified, and when applicable, certified, to make sure you are getting accurate and quality service. Certifications would be needed on either the state or federal level for scenarios such as medical or legal situations. There is a difference between bilingual speakers and certified translators and interpreters, who know how to switch between languages keeping meanings in-tact, using correct grammar, and refraining from placing their own input.

What Now?

Now you know what to look for in a language service provider and can find one that best suits your needs. If you would like to explore the services that we offer to see if we'd be a good fit for you, contact us through the link below.

 

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About Language Network

Language Network is a language solutions company specializing in interpretation, translation, and localization services for government, healthcare, and international businesses. Language Network provides critical language access and support in over 200 languages. For more information, visit www.languagenetworkusa.com.

How Can We Help?

We help our customers reach untapped global markets and communicate effortlessly with diverse audiences.