Skip to content
Askly
+24% Conversion Rate with Askly ChatTry free 14 days [No obligations]Read More

Multilingual Magic in Webflow Websites

Looking to expand your business beyond borders? Creating a multilingual website is your ticket to the global stage. With Webflow, arguably the best multilingual website builder, turning your site into a multilingual powerhouse is easier than you think. Let’s dive into the setup techniques, how to incorporate a language switcher, and the SEO considerations to keep in mind, ensuring your business connects with audiences worldwide.

Why Go Multilingual?

Imagine reaching customers in Tokyo, Madrid, and São Paulo—all from your home office. Companies like Airbnb have successfully done it, translating their website into 62 languages, which has propelled their presence into 190 countries and 34,000 cities. If you’re still pondering why you need a multilingual website, consider the massive potential to expand your market and connect with a global audience. Providing content in multiple languages not only enhances the customer experience but also demonstrates respect and inclusivity for different cultures. By doing so, businesses can increase their market share and showcase a genuine commitment to understanding and supporting diverse audiences.

Setup Techniques in Webflow

So, how do you make your Webflow website speak multiple languages? Here are three methods to consider:

Method 1: Duplicates and ‘hreflang’ Tags

This is the “DIY” approach. You duplicate your pages for each language and add ‘hreflang’ tags for SEO. It’s a straightforward strategy and offers full control of each page’s content.

  • Pros:

    • Simple to set up and ideal for those who like to manage details.
    • Full control over the translation and design of each page.

  • Cons:

    • Time-consuming for large sites, especially when dealing with extensive content.
    • Not scalable beyond a few languages, making it challenging for businesses looking to offer more than a handful of translations.

How to Do It:

  1. Create a folder for each language (e.g., /es/ for Spanish).
  2. Duplicate your pages into these folders, ensuring all textual content, images, and metadata are translated.
  3. Translate all content, images, and metadata.
  4. Add ‘hreflang’ tags in the custom code section to tell search engines about language versions. This helps avoid the dreaded duplicate content penalization.

Method 2: Using Third-Party Tools

For those who prefer a smoother ride, third-party tools like Weglot and Polyflow can be lifesavers. These tools streamline the process, making it much easier to manage a multilingual site.

  • Weglot:

    • No-code integration; offers a user-friendly interface that handles translations automatically.
    • Automatically translates and manages content, keeping it up-to-date with minimal effort.
    • Customizable language switcher, adding a layer of personalization and branding.

  • Polyflow:

    • Syncs static and dynamic content, providing a seamless integration for frequently updated sites.
    • Supports over 120 languages, catering to a vast array of audiences.
    • Auto-detects and translates new content, making it efficient for growing websites.

Pros:

  • Quick setup with a low barrier for entry.
  • Scalable for larger websites, perfect for businesses that plan to expand continuously.

Cons:

  • May involve additional costs, depending on the complexity and needs of your site.

Method 3: Webflow’s Native Localization

Webflow has stepped up its game with native localization features, providing a tightly integrated option for multilingual content management.

  • Features:
    • Manage multilingual content directly in Webflow Designer, keeping all content creation within one platform.
    • Customize locales and translate content natively, giving you control while ensuring efficiency.
    • Visitors can choose their language, providing a tailored browsing experience for each visitor.

Pros:

  • Integrated solution eliminates the need for external tools.
  • Great for sites with multiple languages due to its smooth interface.

Cons:

  • Might have a learning curve for new users; however, it’s worth mastering for future scalability and efficiency.

Incorporating a Language Switcher

What’s a multilingual site without an easy way for users to switch languages? Effective language switchers enhance user experience by providing seamless transitions between languages.

  • Default Switchers:

    • Tools like Weglot and Polyflow come with built-in switchers that are easily customizable, fitting into any site design without disrupting aesthetics.
    • Customize them to match your brand, ensuring they align with your visual identity and enhance user interaction.

  • Custom Switchers:

    • Get creative! Design your own switcher or use pre-made components from design kits.
    • Ensure it’s prominently placed—usually in the top-right corner, where it is traditionally expected.

Remember, the easier it is for users to find and use the language switcher, the better their experience will be. This simple feature can make or break international user interactions on your site.

SEO Considerations

Don’t let your multilingual masterpiece go unnoticed by search engines. Proper SEO practices are crucial for ensuring that your content is not only available in multiple languages but also visible in search results.

  • Use ‘hreflang’ Tags:

    • Tells Google about the different language versions, helping you cater to the correct regional audiences.
    • Avoids duplicate content issues that can harm your site’s SEO ranking.

  • Custom URLs and Subdirectories:

    • Use subdirectories like /en/ or /fr/ to organize languages, providing clear structure for both users and search engines.
    • Helps with SEO and user navigation, enhancing both ease of use and search visibility.

  • Translate Metadata:

    • Don’t forget meta titles and descriptions; these elements influence search performance.
    • Improves visibility in search results, giving your site a broader reach.

  • Sitemap Submission:

    • Submit your sitemap to Google, ensuring that all language versions are effectively crawled and indexed.
    • Provides clarity to search engine algorithms, improving crawl efficiency.

Avoid Getting Lost in Translation

A few tips to keep things smooth in your multilingual site journey:

  • Consistency is Key:

    • Maintain consistent branding across all languages. Your brand’s voice and tone should remain recognizable, regardless of the language.

  • Test Everything:

    • Check for errors in translations, as mistakes can lead to misunderstandings or an unprofessional appearance.
    • Ensure all links and forms work properly, as broken elements can frustrate users and detract from their experience.

  • Think About Support:

    • Offering content in multiple languages? Consider implementing bilingual customer support to assist your global customers effectively, reinforcing a strong, reliable image worldwide.

The Power of Multilingual Customer Support

Creating a multilingual website is just the first step. To truly connect with international customers, consider implementing a multilingual live chat. Tools like Askly offer real-time translation, breaking down language barriers and enhancing customer experience. This ensures that when customers reach out for help, they’re met with support that speaks their language, both literally and metaphorically.

Wrapping Up

Expanding globally doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With Webflow’s capabilities and the right approach, your website can speak the language of your customers—literally. So go ahead, sprinkle some multilingual magic on your site and watch your global reach soar! Multilingual websites are not just a trend; they are a strategic move towards attaining a genuinely global business presence.