With online businesses going global, operating in more than one language is becoming essential. While automatic translations are available, the quality of the translation is usually inadequate and rather a put-off in most cases. Creating a multilingual website is quite possible on WPML. Here are the first steps you’ll need to take to help transform your business from a local to a global, multi-lingual website:
When using WordPress, only one language is created on the actual website, but with a plugin such as WPML it is possible to create a multilingual website using website translation services with content in many different languages. Not only is it a user-friendly interface for managing translation, but it also allows users to switch between languages by offering an easy option.
Install the WPML (WordPress Multi-language) plugin
The first step is to install the WPMLplugin by using the plugin search. After accessing your WordPress admin area and clicking on plug-ins, add new, type in the name of the plug-in in the search tab on the top right corner and press search. While WordPress will install the plugin for you, it will not work until it is activated. That’s why you need to press on the activate plugin link to get it started.
WPML Wizard Setup
Click on the item labeled WPML in your WordPress menu and you’ll be directed to the plugin’s setting up wizard. You will then be able to select the languages you wish to add to your site. Don’t worry, you will always be able to add or remove more languages later on.
Add a language switcher
The next step will be adding a language switcher which gives your users the option of viewing the content in the language they prefer. With WPML, you can add content switcher as a sidebar widget, in your navigation menu or display as a plain list. If you prefer the language switcher to be shown in the country flags, that is also an option.
Add site key
The last step is adding the key to your site. If you do not have one, click on ‘Generate a key for this site’ button which will redirect you to WPML website where you can add the site to your WPML account and generate a site key. Copy and paste this specific key into your WordPress site and click Finish to exit the setup.
Adding Multilingual content into WordPress
It will now be really easy to translate each post or page. All you have to do is click on the post menu and see the language columns next to your post titles. Click on the add button under a specific language, and you will be able to select the translated languages possible for each post.
Having more than one language will help your business expand and grow by giving the opportunity for people from different countries to not only access your site, but also understand it thoroughly in the language they prefer. This gives a professional and trusty-worthy impression about the service you’re offering.
Allen Brown is a keen writer covering a range of topics such as internet marketing, SEO, and more! When not writing, he’s found behind a drum kit.
