DACH Market:
3 Reasons Why English to German Translation is Vital for Global Business Expansion
Taking your business to the so-called DACH market can take your business presence to new heights.
That being said, the DACH countries (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland) have their set of legal regulations, cultural norms, and business practices.
We’re looking at a legal environment that necessitates English to German translations that bridge language gaps and align with the specific legal frameworks of each nation.
English to German translation services are therefore indispensable to ensure that your international legal and business documents are authentic, reliable, and accepted within the context of each jurisdiction.
Accessing and Expanding into the DACH Market Through English to German Translation
Expanding into new markets can look many ways.
The classic market entry modes are exporting, licensing arrangements, partnering and strategic alliances, acquisitions, and establishing new, wholly owned subsidiaries, also known as greenfield ventures.
Unlocking the DACH Market
Germany is Europe’s best performing economy, and English to German translation opens doors to this vast and dynamic market, providing access to a German-speaking audience that values content in their native language.
Trust is a steadfast value in the DACH region. Handshakes carry weight in business transactions, and agreements are sacred contracts.
Your communication must reflect this sentiment to truly integrate into this market.
Certified German translation goes beyond converting words; it conveys trustworthiness as well.
Legal documents and agreements that are meticulously translated demonstrate respect and understanding for the local culture.
The Importance of Localization
Localization through accurate translation resonates deeply with German consumers by demonstrating a commitment to understanding their preferences, cultural nuances, and business practices.
What’s more, German translations for the DACH market will need to be adapted for the specific target market.
For example, an English to German translation for Germany will look different from a translation for Switzerland.
German and Swiss German differ in vocabulary, pronunciation, and syntax, with Swiss German having unique words, distinct phonetic characteristics, and a more flexible sentence structure.
One important difference is the Swiss-German readers dislike of hyper-long sentences, a feature that Standard German is notoriously known for.
When I started to work with the Swiss German market, I had to switch gears and, simply put, started to cut sentences in half when I “normally” wouldn’t.
Add to that the differences in grammar and vocabulary, and it becomes clear that “one” German translation for the entire DACH market won’t cut it.
Building Trust and Credibility in the DACH Market
Subsequently, a Swiss customer or business owner will expect to read the type of German they’re used to, rather than the German that is considered standard.
Cultural alignment goes a very long way, and is something that can only be conveyed by a reliable and trustworthy translator that understands nuances, has knowledge of the local market, and knows what to say, and how.
Ideally, you’re looking to hire a certified translator who understands the legal landscape of the different DACH countries, has experience dealing with local authorities, and is familiar with formal requirements that can and will differ between countries, regions/cantons, and authorities.
This is the best way to make sure that your audience trusts you.
Ensuring Accuracy and Adherence to Regulations in the DACH Market with English to German Translation
When translating for the DACH market, one request that keeps coming back is to account for local legal language/legalese.
Accurate English to German translation of contracts, agreements, and compliance documents ensures that legal obligations are met, mitigating potential disputes and legal challenges.
Navigating Cross-Border Regulations
The European landscape is highly complex and can be opaque.
It would go beyond the scope of this article to go into the details of the European Union’s hierarchy of legal norms. However, it is essential to understand some of the basis which will, in turn, help you find the best English to German translator for your documents.
When translating texts for the European Union (EU) market (that Switzerland is not a part of), it is essential to use the terminology that is set at the EU-level, if, and this is crucial, EU law applies to the text in question.
In my practice, this is often the case for the translation and adaptation of texts relating to data protection and privacy.
Simply put, if you want to cater to European consumers, you must adhere to the rules as laid out by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
According to Regulation No 1, the EU has 24 official languages, and Regulations and other documents of general application shall be drafted in the official languages.
So what does that mean?
Well, it means that you have to translate documents that pertain to legal matters governed by EU law in a way that is aligned with EU terminology. At least when translating for the German and Austrian market.
Once, I translated an English text pertaining to data protection for both the German and the Swiss market.
One may think that it was one translation.
But in fact, they were two different translations.
For example, the Standard German word for “personal data” is “personenbezogene Daten”, whereas the Swiss lawyer will expect to read about “Personendaten”.
And this is just one example.
Preserving Document Integrity
Understanding these nuances is crucial when it comes to preserving document integrity.
English to German translation must be properly localized and adapted to the intended place of business to preserve document integrity while ensuring that the translated content reflects the same legal nuances and obligations as the original.
Avoiding Misinterpretation Risks in the DACH Market
In the same breath, applying correct terminology, grammar, and syntax is crucial to avoid misinterpretation.
It is tempting to think that the Swiss reader will know what is “meant” when reading “personenbezogene Daten” instead of “Personendaten”.
However, this is a dangerous assumption.
Just think of the differences between American and British English.
An old saying calls Britain and America are “two nations divided by a common language”. The saying mostly refers to different business culture and practices. And it applies to legal terminology as well.
The most basic example is the difference in how lawyers refer to themselves. The UK calls lawyers barristers or solicitors, while the US has litigators and non-litigators.
Even though lawyers with a certain level of international expertise will know what is “meant” when someone uses the terms originating on the other side of the Atlantic, it is simply not feasible to use foreign terminology when entering a new place of business, and to hope for the best.
It is risky at worst, and disrespectful at the minimum.
Building Trust and Cultural Bridges in the DACH Market with English to German Translation
To build trust and cultural bridges in the DACH market, respect must be the basis of all interactions.
English to German translations will help you to do just that.
Beyond Language: Cultural Nuances
While it can be acceptable to use English only in business to business relationships, it is certainly not best practice.
To build long-term business relationships, trust must be built. And this works best when communicating with people in their language.
Effective communication isn’t just about words; it’s about capturing cultural nuances and idiomatic expressions.
Establishing Meaningful Relationships
Effective communication is especially important when hiring foreign talent.
Speaking the language of your German-speaking partners and clients is a sign of respect and effort.
Clear communication, workplace safety, and keeping the right talent are not negotiable when building a new team overseas.
For example, an employee handbook that was translated by a certified translator could have avoided a lengthy court battle by forgetting one word in the Spanish version.
Moreover, employees will feel more connected to their place of work if their employer tries to properly communicate with them—in his or her language, not the employer’s.
And even though things may look a bit different when dealing with business partners, showing respect for someone’s language goes a long way.
Brand Consistency and Recognition in the DACH Market
High-quality translation ensures that your messaging is clear, accurate, and aligns seamlessly with your brand values, enhancing recognition and loyalty.
Especially branding is an area where cultural expertise is essential.
To communicate your values, you have to understand the values of your target market. And that is only possible by knowing where they are, what is important to them, and what they expect of you.
Consistent communication in English and German reinforces your brand identity.
Where Can You Find the Right Translation Partner for an English to German Translation for Your Expansion in the DACH Market?
Qualities to Seek in an English to German Translation Partner
Finding someone who can translate from English to German is just one aspect to consider.
When expanding your business into the DACH market, you want to find someone who has subject-matter expertise, demonstrates linguistic accuracy, possesses cultural understanding, and adheres to deadlines.
That way, you will be able to connect with your target audience, hire and keep the right talent and have clear contracts in place that the parties involved can adhere to without having to re-interpret your words.
Customized Approach to Your Needs
My services are customizable.
My pre-translation services will help you to determine what documents you really need translated, and which ones can be put on the back burner so as to be mindful of budgeting.
I can provide certified translations from English to German, which is often required when filing government applications or in the context of litigation.
If you have already translated documents, I can offer you a review service to make sure that the translations are accurate.
Seamless Collaboration and Communication
If you want to get a better understanding of how to navigate the search for a certified German translator specifically, I have written a blog post on 3 important considerations when navigating the search for a certified German translator for your business expansion or estate matters.
And if you are looking for a translator specialized in legal texts offering certified translation services in German, English, and French, I invite you to take a look at my services or contact me directly at translation@catherinediallo.com.