Language Compliance – Your Key to Global Success
No matter what industry or business type, it is critical to communicate effectively with clients, partners and employees – making language compliance within an organization vital. Language compliance is a business’s responsibility to communicate in a way that is appropriate, accurate and sensitive to cultural and linguistic nuances.
Language compliance is legally mandated for specific businesses. In the United States, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination based on race, color or national origin in programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance – including language assistance for limited English proficient (LEP) individuals. Companies that receive federal funding, such as healthcare providers and schools, must provide language services and accommodations for LEP patients and students.
While only certain organizations require language compliance, it is essential and can benefit ALL businesses. Language compliance is crucial for companies with a diverse workforce. Communicating effectively with employees from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds can help encourage a more inclusive and supportive work environment. Bridging the language barrier can increase employee engagement, productivity and satisfaction.
Language compliance allows businesses to effectively market and sell their products and services to a global audience. To reach and engage different target markets, companies must communicate in a way that resonates with them culturally and linguistically. This means understanding and adapting messaging and branding accordingly. It is especially important for businesses looking to expand into new markets and can help establish trust and credibility with potential customers.
Language compliance can also improve customer service. When customers can communicate with a business in their primary language, they are more likely to feel understood and valued, leading to increased satisfaction and loyalty. Inclusive language can drive sales and growth for a company.
Ensure Your Business is Language Compliant:
- Provide Interpreting & Translations Solutions: Ensure there is an interpreter for all spoken interactions and written materials are translated to be accurate and culturally responsive. For businesses that receive federal funding, to provide language assistance services to LEP clients, patients or students.
- Have In-House Language & Culture Experts: Having in-house language and culture experts can help businesses understand the nuances of diverse cultures and languages to adapt messaging and branding accordingly.
- Monitor & Review Content: Regularly reviewing all written and verbal content can help ensure that it is up-to date, accurate and culturally sensitive.
By ensuring language compliance, businesses can avoid potential legal issues and improve the quality of company performance, marketing and communications and customer service. In today’s globalized world, language compliance is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for success.