Translating the single market
20th January 2017
On the 17th of January 2017, Theresa May gave a speech outlining her plan for the UK to leave the European single market. Some suggest that this is the final nail in a Brexit coffin and will be catastrophic for the UK, while others are more optimistic and argue that these changes will strengthen the UK’s position when it comes to global trade.
Regardless of the outcome, there is no doubt that the end result will change the UK’s relationship with both Europe and the rest of the world. Combine the above with the current government’s desire to lower immigration numbers and the knock-on effect might be that in years to come businesses may find it difficult to recruit international talent.
One huge advantage that competing nations have over the UK, when it comes to international commerce, is that they make the effort to learn the language of their customers. If you want to be successful in China, it helps immensely to have an understanding of the Chinese language and culture. Things may have changed from the macho posturing days of Wall Street execs learning Japanese and quoting Sun Tzu at every board meeting during the 1980s, but cultural diplomacy still plays a significant role in every deal and simply having a good product doesn’t guarantee international success.
The prospect of an unsettled foreseeable future for the UK, either within the single market or out, does suggest that companies will have to work harder to attract new clients from around the world. While implementation of new rules and regulations may take years to iron out, the simple fact is that business will continue in the meantime, both domestically and abroad. One thing that is certain though – now is the time to start planning for the changes to your global strategy.
Whether it be an email campaign or a complete targeted marketing strategy, Foreign Tongues has been producing commercial translation for international businesses for more than twenty years, in both established and emerging markets. Our experienced linguists will ensure you get your message across, to both the clients and the consumers in your territories of choice.
Speak to one of Foreign Tongues’ project managers now and we’ll make sure you have the right information and resources at hand to maintain your global presence during these interesting times.
