Around 350 million people, in 54 countries, speak French either as a native or second language, and your business may need French translation services at some point, even if you don't have offices all over the world.

Effective translation requires more than just access to a French-English dictionary; it also requires skill in adapting materials from one culture and language to another, preserving something's meaning and intent while also making it relevant to another group of people. That's why even a bilingual employee may not have the level of skill or knowledge you need.

Translation services include everything from reviewing a French legal document to producing promotional materials for distribution in French-speaking countries. What to consider when hiring French to English or English to French translators:

1. Does the entire document need to be translated, or will a simple summary suffice?
2. Will the translator to review everything before it goes to the printer?
3. Does the French translator hold any certifications or degrees, or belong to any professional associations?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Hire a professional French translator

If you regularly deal with clients or associates in French-speaking countries, or if you need major documents or projects translated into French, you'll probably need the expertise of a professional French translator. Most will have degrees and/or certifications in French, or in language translation, and are knowledgeable not only of basic French grammar, but also in the subtle language differences between the various regions in France and in the many countries that speak French. They'll also know the latest slang and buzz words and phrases, and be able to put things into context for you.

I recommend: Search the online directory at the French Language Division of the American Translators Association for individual translators and interpreters or translating and interpreting companies. Get a free quote for translation services at Applied Language Solutions.

Purchase French translation software

If you regularly read or write documents in French, translation software can also help. Maybe you want to keep up with French news by reading French newspapers or magazines; rather than hiring a translator, you can receive an instant English-language version of the text. These tools are great for getting the basic idea of something, and because they're easily accessible, but they don't provide the context or precision that a professional translator can.

I recommend: The Virtual Personal Interpreter from Systran includes over 15,000 words, including pronunciation, and can be used from any Windows application. LingvoSoft offers several kinds of translation software products, including flash cards, dictionaries, phrase books, machine translators and voice interpreters. Search the company's online catalogue, or download a free trial version of its software.

For small jobs, use online free French translation tools

For a quick translation of a word or sentence, free online translators may suffice. However, they may produce stilted, unnatural sounding translations, and may not take into account cultural differences or casual usages of the language. These tools may be sufficient for your own use, but before you speak or write to anyone in French, or if you're translating a legal document, for example, you'd need to double-check your French dictionary or have a French translator review your project.

I recommend: Free-Translator.com is a one-stop-shop for translation, featuring a free online translator where you can cut and paste up to 150 words. The site also includes links to dictionaries and courses. Dictionary.com also offers basic translations.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Know the difference between French translators and French interpreters--translation applies to written materials, while interpreting applies to speaking. If you hire someone to help you with French to English or English to French translation, ask them if they handle written materials, speaking or both. If you only need help with documents or other written materials, you'll probably only need a translator; however, if you frequently travel or meet with French-speaking people in person, you may need to hire an interpreter.