Yes, LinkedIn does offer a translation feature that allows users to translate posts into different languages. This translation feature allows posts to reach a wider, global audience on the platform.
How Does LinkedIn Translate Posts?
LinkedIn uses automated machine translation to translate posts into different languages. When composing a new post, users have the option to click on the “Translate post” button. This will bring up a list of languages that the post can be translated into.
The machine translation is powered by Microsoft Translator, which utilizes deep neural network artificial intelligence to translate text. Microsoft Translator supports over 70 different languages, allowing LinkedIn posts to be translated into many different tongues.
After selecting the desired language, the machine translation will automatically generate a translation of the original post text. While not always perfect, the translations aim to convey the overall meaning and content of the original post.
Who Can Translate LinkedIn Posts?
The ability to translate LinkedIn posts is available to all members, regardless of account type. Both free and premium account holders can make use of the translation feature when composing posts.
However, there are some limitations based on account type. Free accounts can only translate posts into a few select languages, while premium accounts have access to all 70+ supported languages.
Pages and Company Pages administrators can also translate their posts to extend reach. This allows businesses to share updates and content with followers in local languages.
Why Translate LinkedIn Posts?
There are a few key reasons why translating LinkedIn posts can be beneficial:
- Reach a wider, global audience – By translating posts into different languages, LinkedIn members can reach viewers in non-native tongues.
- Engage local followers and customers – Businesses and organizations can better engage local audiences by sharing translated posts.
- Increase visibility – Translated posts have the potential to be discovered by more people searching in other languages.
- Improve search engine optimization – Translated content can help improve SEO and search visibility in foreign markets.
In summary, translating LinkedIn posts opens up content to new demographics and locations, improving distribution and engagement.
Tips for Translating LinkedIn Posts
Here are some tips to get the most out of LinkedIn’s post translation feature:
- Proofread machine translations – While decent, machine translations still often need polish. Review translated versions to catch errors.
- Translate strategically – Identify key languages to engage followers and customers. Don’t just translate randomly.
- Localize content when relevant – Tweak posts with local references and examples where appropriate.
- Translate consistently – Build a multilingual presence by translating posts regularly.
- Analyze results – Use LinkedIn Analytics to see how translated posts perform.
Limitations of LinkedIn Post Translations
While useful, there are some limitations to be aware of with LinkedIn’s translation capabilities:
- Imperfect machine translation – Automated translations are not flawless, and may misinterpret slang, jokes or nuances.
- Meaning can be lost – Subtleties in tone and meaning can be difficult for machines to translate appropriately.
- Grammar errors – Machine translation can struggle with complex grammar rules in some languages.
- Character limits remain – Translated posts are still subject to the same character limits, which may require condensing text.
In general, machine translations work best for straightforward informational posts, and may fall short for nuanced content. Reviewing and refining translated versions is advised.
Alternatives to LinkedIn Post Translation
In addition to using LinkedIn’s built-in translation, there are some alternative approaches to reach audiences in other languages:
- Manually translate posts – Hiring human translators can yield higher quality translations without reliance on AI.
- Use multilingual social media management tools – Tools like HootSuite allow scheduling posts in multiple languages.
- Post in multiple languages manually – Maintain separate posts in different languages rather than relying solely on translation.
- Engage with Groups in local languages – Participate in non-English language LinkedIn Groups to connect with new audiences.
The best approach depends on content type, resources available, and languages targeted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I translate a post that has already been shared?
Unfortunately no, LinkedIn only allows translating posts before they have been initially shared. Once a post goes live, there is no option to retrospectively translate it. Instead, you’ll have to delete the existing post and repeat it in other languages.
Who can see the translated versions of my post?
When you translate a post, both the original post and the translated versions are visible to your connections and followers. The translated posts are labelled with the language, so viewers can identify the different versions.
Is there a limit to how many languages I can translate a post into?
For free accounts, the number of target languages is limited to a few selections. Premium accounts can translate posts into all 70+ supported languages if desired, with no limit.
Can I auto-translate all my posts into multiple languages?
LinkedIn doesn’t currently offer a mass auto-translate option to translate all your posts. You have to translate posts individually before sharing. Some social media management tools do offer mass translation capabilities.
Who writes the translated versions – machine or human?
LinkedIn uses machine translation powered by Microsoft to translate posts. The translations are done automatically by artificial intelligence, not actual human translators.
Summary
LinkedIn’s post translation feature allows users to easily translate posts into multiple languages. While not perfect, it enables wider reach and engagement globally. Carefully reviewing machine translations and localizing content are advised to maximize value.
Translating posts has the potential to increase visibility and connect with new audiences worldwide. Used strategically, it can amplify the impact of sharing on LinkedIn.