world flags

So we’ve taken a look at two points – keyword translation and content translation. I believe these are the two most important considerations for SEO when it comes to multi-lingual sites. However, there are other things that we need to take a look into. They may seem minor to some, but if they are overlooked, they could very well spell disaster for your multi-lingual web sites.

Linking
Anyone who has had even the slightest encounter with SEO principles would know that links are one of the most important things. If you have a multi-lingual site, you simply cannot overlook linking. You have to make sure that you include links – both to and from – your English site to your foreign language site. At the same time, you have to include the links to English on your foreign language site. Otherwise, it would be akin to leaving your foreign language readers disconnected from the rest of the world.

Language options
If your aim is to attract people who speak a language other than English, you would want them to know easily that you are offering the site in their language, right? As such, the options for your foreign language web sites should be prominently shown on the English web site. Ideally, the options should be seen on top of the page – left or right, it’s up to you. The point is that it is easily understandable that you are offering the site in other languages and to point out clearly which languages you have your other sites in.

One Comment to "Multi-lingual Sites and SEO In Detail (Part 2)"

  • Margo said: On 03/17/2008 at 9:29 pm

    Good advice! There is so much to think of when targeting a non-English speaking audience. This stuff may seem obvious, but ignoring advice like the following leaves you looking like a fool, and does not effectively target your audience!
    “Ideally, the options should be seen on top of the page – left or right, it’s up to you. The point is that it is easily understandable that you are offering the site in other languages and to point out clearly which languages you have your other sites in.”

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