Do you need help writing in English?
Is your website, newsletter or brochure a direct English translation of a foreign language? And do you want to attract English speaking customers?
You’re offering an English language option and that’s fantastic, but often direct translations aren’t as free flowing and easy to read as they should be. I can help you rewrite your website to make it more attractive and easier for English speaking people to read.
Here’s an example, have a look at this website – www.feel-kobe.jp/english. If you’re having trouble viewing the Feel Kobe website for any reason (or in case it’s been updated since I last saw it), you can read a web copy transcript. You can tell that it has either been written by an English speaking Japanese person or it relies on software to translate from Japanese. Yes, it’s readable and it does communicate the overall message, but it’s plain to see that something’s not quite right.
Let me show you what I mean
If I were to rewrite the first paragraph on this website’s home page it might read something like this. Note, this is just web copy with no thought for SEO:
Experience the natural beauty of Kobe, Japan’s most exotic and beautiful city
The port city of Kobe is one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations and it’s easy to see why. From the moment you arrive you’ll be entranced by this vibrant city’s natural beauty. From the serenity of the Rokko Mountains that form the city’s backdrop to the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean, Kobe is a city like no other.
Take a look beyond the city’s lush landscape and you’ll be amazed what else you’ll find. A rich tapestry of Japanese and foreign culture, Kobe captures the essence of Japanese history. No visit to Kobe is complete without experiencing the famous Arima hot springs, hiking on Mount Rokko, picnicking under the blooming cherry blossoms and visiting the historic international port.
Kobe is one of Japan’s most accessible cities located only 30 minutes by bullet train from Osaka! So what are you waiting for? Escape the metropolis and experience the real Japan today.
Can you see the difference?
Sometimes the amusing language differences have their charm, like misspelt words on a Thai menu. But for the most part when you write your website specifically for English readers you’re speaking their language. And when you do this readers perceive your website, newsletter or brochure as more credible and have greater trust in your ability to deliver a quality product.
For more information about rewriting your website, newsletter or brochure in casual style English, please feel free to email me.