South Africa boasts eleven different languages spoken by its fifty-two million residents.
That’s a lot of client and employee potential for local and international companies. With major international businesses like Acer Africa, Alcatel, Barclays Bank and Britannia Biscuits based in South Africa, American businesses need to be able to communicate in every language used by South African partners. Is your company prepared to make international connections and expand its reach through the use of reliable translation services?
According to Mother Nature Network, South Africa has eleven official languages which are English, Afrikaans, Ndebele, Xhosa, Zulu, Sesotho, Setswana, Swati, Tshivenda, Xitsonga and other indigenous creoles and pidgins. English is used in the government and media, although only a small percentage of South Africans speak English as a first language. Not everyone speaks all eleven languages, but most people speak at least three different languages.
The main language used depends on the area of South Africa, so it’s vital that you do your research to learn which language to communicate in, as well as culturally acceptable business practices. According to Commisceo Global, there are major differences in communication styles depending on cultural background. Most South Africans prefer face-to-face meetings and personal relationships are important. Showing respect for your international partners and their cultural heritage is sure to bring you nothing but success.
A great way to show your respect and appreciation for an international client is to communicate through written business documents in their preferred language. At ASTA-USA Translation Services, Inc., our native-speaking translators are able to translate your documents from English to Zulu, Setswana to English and more.
Contact us today for your free quote and let us help you make a positive international impression.