Learn how to easily create modern, multilingual sites on the WordPress platform. Provide a personalised experience for users from different countries.
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Why Develop Multilingual Websites on WordPress
Creating sites in different languages helps to attract users from different countries, which is a key element in developing a global brand. WordPress, with its flexibility and variety of plugins, is the ideal tool for this purpose. In this article, we will discuss how easy it is to create a multilingual site and the benefits of such an investment.
Choosing the right plug-in
Multilingual sites can be created in many ways, but the best solution is to use plug-ins specifically designed for this. I recommend three plugins in particular: WPML, Polylang and Weglot.
- WPML: The most popular and advanced plugin. Offers full translation of content, including products in online shops.
- Polylang: A good alternative to WPML, especially for smaller sites. Easy to use and offers many features for free.
- Weglot: Simple to implement, works on a subscription basis. Automatic translations are fast and effective.
Configuration of the Translation Plugin
Once you have selected a plug-in, it is necessary to configure it. I will show how to configure WPML, as it is the most popular plug-in.
- Install and activate the plugin from the WordPress admin panel.
- Go to the WPML section and select the languages in which you want your website to be available.
- Configure menus and widgets to be compatible with your chosen languages.
- Add translations of content, products and blog posts.
Make sure that every page and post is translated into all the languages you choose. This will ensure that your users will always be able to enjoy the full functionality of your website, regardless of the language version.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
When creating a multilingual site, several problems can be encountered. Here are the most common ones and how to solve them:
- The problem with translating motifs: Often WordPress themes are not fully multi-language capable. Make use of themes that support WPML or Polylang.
- No translations for plug-ins: Not all plugins are translation-ready. Check that they are compatible with your chosen translation plugin and that they provide .po files for translation.
- SEO problem: Remember to add the correct hreflang tags so that Google can correctly understand which languages your site is available in.
Benefits of Having a Multilingual WordPress Website
Having a multilingual site on WordPress has numerous benefits:
- Increased visibility: Your website appears in search results in different languages, which increases traffic.
- Improved positioning: Google and other search engines give preference to sites available in multiple languages.
- Greater conversion: Users are more likely to use sites in their native language, which can increase conversion rates.
Content and SEO optimisation for multilingual websites
Equally important is content and SEO optimisation for multilingual sites. Here are some key tips:
- Creation of unique content for each language version.
- Use of appropriate hreflang tags.
- Adaptation of meta descriptions and titles for each language version.
- Analysis of the competition in each country and adaptation of the SEO strategy.
Summary
In summary, creating a multilingual site on WordPress is a challenging process, but one with huge benefits. I also encourage you to read the article How to Use SEO in WordPress Webshops, which develops the topic of SEO and SEO optimisation in the context of WordPress-based online shops.
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