We all know that almost all things big start small, just like how millions start from cents. Yet, this fact is often forgotten as we tend to give our nods of approval only to businesses with big, reputable names, and moments of hesitation to small ones.

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There are plenty of reasons why we are inclined towards big names. We believe that they owe their successes to strict protocols, high efficiency, brilliant customer relationships and, perhaps, even better after-sales services. After all, these are the reasons that give us a sense of security and confidence with them.

On the contrary, many often hold a tiny tinge of suspicion and unease about small companies, especially when they are fresh out of the pan. Question marks spring up in our minds as we wonder if these small businesses are trustworthy, safe and efficient enough to even give them a try.

I would say, why not?

Companies, no matter their scale, build on people who are the same asset for every other company. People are the ones who make a difference, and not the brand itself. If you find ease in communication and quality in the work, then this company will be worthy for future consideration, regardless of its brand or size.

In terms of finding translation companies, here are five reasons why you should give small translation companies (like us) a chance:

1. Save Time

Save time by communicating directly with the translator instead of going through a third person, usually a project manager. While big translation companies offer quick turnaround time with their wide pool of translators, clients often do not know who are the ones doing the work, and communication to the translator is usually through the project managers. Small companies like us allow clients to communicate with the translators themselves, thus, cutting the risk of miscommunication and increasing work efficiency.

2. A Sense Of Warmth

As queues form outside renowned chain restaurants and familiar international franchises, we find ourselves looking for intimate, one-of-a-kind cafés selling dishes that shout “home-cooked”. All due to the fact that somewhere deep in our hearts, we long for a sense of warmth that usually exudes from small businesses that remember clients’ names and preferences by heart. The same applies for small translation companies.

3. Quick Response Time

Some small translation companies work around the clock, so if you have urgent jobs that require attention over the weekend, chances are that these small businesses may be able to respond to you without that usual “working days” rule.

4. Easy Negotiation

Without all the big company rules and regulations to follow, there is a higher chance to negotiate rates and delivery time with small translation companies.

5. Consistent In Style

If consistency and translation style is a concern to you, small translation companies are often able to assign the same translator to your projects. Just like how we prefer to stick to the same hairdresser for our golden crown, stick to the same translator if his/her style is something you took a liking to.

Trust the people behind the brand. After all, it is the skills we are looking for.

 Visit Yiu Translation to find out more about Lee Ling’s work.

_{This post was first published on Yiu Translation Blog and has been reposted on Executive Lifestyle with the permission of the author.}

_{Edited by Nedda Chaplin
Image credit: Business partners shaking hands after successful meeting from Shutterstock}

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