How to give an online presentation in a different language
To give an online presentation in another language, you will need to blend translation skills with careful localization of the content.
This article walks you through how to do just that so that you’ll soon be approaching the task with zeal!
Let’s dive in.
Where do interpretation services fit in a multilingual presentation?
What is a good presentation?
It’s one that is:
-
engaging
-
memorable
-
useful
It’s one that:
-
uses a variety of resources (graphics, images, quotes, statistics, and more)
-
maintains a lively pace
-
is delivered by a confident presenter
-
connects with the people listening
What is the concept of multilingualism?
It is the use of more than one language by a single speaker or a group of speakers.
You don’t need to be multilingual to deliver a presentation online in another language.
Instead, you can use a blend of modern technology and professional interpretation services to connect with audience members who speak a huge range of languages.
And this all can be done without speaking a word of these languages.
Using translation services to build your presentation
Well before the big day, use a translation company to help whip your presentation material into shape.
From the copy on your slides to labels on your charts, and even the strapline below your logo, your translation agency can provide a word-perfect copy of your presentation in other languages.
Remember to use the translator for your pre- and post-event materials as well, from social media promotional posts to follow up emails.
Be sure to ask your language service provider about their localization service as well.
What does localization mean? It means moulding your presentation to better suit the intended audience. That could mean swapping images out for those that are more culturally appropriate for your audience, as well as flagging any idioms or expressions that might be misunderstood, or perhaps, cause offence to your listeners.
Fitting interpretation services into your online presentation
Firstly, be clear on which kind of interpretation service you need.
There are several different types of interpretations, with simultaneous interpretation and consecutive interpretation being the main two.
For an online presentation, you’ll want a simultaneous interpreter, who will translate your words as you deliver them.
Your interpreter will deliver your presentation in the language that you need.
While the use of English in many settings around the world is on the up (as this examination of higher education in Europe and Asia demonstrates), that doesn’t mean that you don’t have to reach out in other languages if you truly want to engage a global audience.
The key to this is using the right technology.
Tools like Zoom have been designed to facilitate multilingual presentations, so you should have no trouble finding the right software through which to connect with your audience.
The perfect online presentation software will make it easy for you to deliver your presentation, for your interpreters to join the call, and for your audience to select the language that they want to listen in. With decent video conferencing software, you can deliver a presentation not only in a different language but in multiple dialects – you just need to arrange for an interpreter for each.
When researching the right tool for your multilingual presentation, check that it also has the facility for you to share documents with your audience. After all, it’s good to get the maximum value out of all that translation work you undertook for your presentation!
Using translation services to ensure that your presentation stands out
The work of your translation agency doesn’t need to start and end with the presentation itself.
As well as appointing interpreters to convert your presentation to other languages, why not use professional translators to enable live feedback, such as Q and A sessions, polls and other audience participation measures?
Doing so will enable you to connect more deeply with all those listening, no matter which language they speak.
During the presentation itself, remember that it’s important to speak at a steady rate. Interpreting live speech as it is happening is no easy task, so take a deep breath every now and then, and pace yourself.
Doing so will provide your interpreter(s) with a much fairer chance of keeping up with your delivery, enabling them to deliver your presentation smoothly and seamlessly.
Finally, before the big day be sure to hold a quick dress rehearsal of the presentation with your translation agency.
You only need them for 10-15 minutes, but that time can be invaluable in ensuring that everyone knows how to connect and has the chance to ask any questions.
After all, you won’t have time to sort out connection issues at the start of your live online presentation, at least not without trying the patience of your international audience as soon as you connect with them – and that’s hardly the way to deliver an outstanding online presentation!
Author Bio:
Ofer Tirosh is an entrepreneur and CEO of Tomedes, a language service provider specializing in translation and interpretation services, including marketing and events translation.
Not on SpeakerHub yet? Sign up and showcase yourself as a speaker. Join here.
