Hello everyone,I have a successful website focusing on a specific niche in Italy. It is hosted on a .IT domain and the website’s name is in Italian. The website has active Italian-language social media accounts on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
The website is built using Wordpress, Elementor Pro, Yoast SEO, and a cache managing plugin. I am considering creating an English version of the website to reach a wider audience.
I am unsure whether to use the current domain for the English version or start a new domain. I am also seeking recommendations for a plugin that is compatible with Elementor and WooCommerce for translating the website into English.
Additionally, I am questioning what to do with the social media accounts - should I create English versions or keep them in Italian?
I value making the best SEO decisions and ensuring stability. I would appreciate any expert suggestions on how to proceed. Thank you.
Answer:
Creating a multilingual website can be a great way to expand your reach and target a wider audience. There are several factors to consider when deciding how to proceed:
Domain:
- Using the current domain: A subdomain (e.g., en.yourdomain.it) or a subdirectory (e.g., yourdomain.it/en) can be used for the English version. This allows you to leverage existing SEO and brand recognition but may require adjustments to your website’s structure and configuration.
- Starting a new domain: A separate .com domain can be used, offering a clean slate for SEO and branding but potentially requiring more effort in building visibility and trust.
Translation Plugin:
- WPML: Popular and feature-rich but can be complex to use. It offers deep integration with Elementor, WooCommerce, and Yoast SEO.
- Polylang: A simpler and lightweight option for translating content, supporting Elementor and WooCommerce.
- TranslatePress: Allows for real-time editing and visual translation, compatible with Elementor.
Social Media:
- Create English versions: This allows you to target a specific audience with tailored content and engagement.
- Maintain Italian accounts: Continue engaging your existing Italian audience while building a new English-speaking community.
SEO Considerations:
- Language Targeting: Implement hreflang tags to tell search engines which language version of your website is intended for each audience.
- Content Optimization: Translate all website content, including product descriptions, blog posts, and meta descriptions, for optimal SEO.
- Link Building: Develop strategies to build backlinks to both versions of your website.
Stability:
- Regular Backups: Ensure you have reliable backups of your website before implementing any major changes.
- Testing and Monitoring: Thoroughly test your website after implementation to ensure functionality and performance.
Ultimately, the best approach depends on your specific goals, resources, and preferences. Consider carefully how each option aligns with your overall strategy and choose the approach that best suits your needs.