When I was a teenager, I refused to wash my hair for weeks at a time. My long-suffering mother would admonish, but I was adamant: first impressions didn’t matter, and my hair was just naturally clean all the time (a lie).

Turns out the joke is on me – first impressions do matter, both in person and online. They are not the only thing that matters when getting to know someone, but the way someone presents themselves can still be a very powerful indicator of how that person is deeper inside. The same goes for that person’s website and social media profiles.

I obviously spend a lot of time pondering websites and this, alongside my experience in the language industry, makes me want to tell you all about the key elements to have on a website. I’ll write about socials another time.

Foundation – Essentials for Everyone

Before diving into role-specific needs, there are key features every language professional should have:

Professional Bio/About Me Section: Clear, human, and specific. Who you are, what you do, and why you do it.

Services Offered: Easy to find, easy to understand. Bullet points with optional short descriptions.

Contact Information: Clear and multiple channels (form + email + LinkedIn or Calendly).

Clear Navigation: Avoid clutter and make it intuitive to explore.

Professional Photos: Not necessarily corporate headshots, but high-quality and consistent with your brand.

Testimonials: Especially if you’re not new to the field. Social proof matters.

Language Pairs / Specializations: Showcase your niche and what sets you apart.

SEO Basics: Use keywords your ideal clients would search for. Think “medical Spanish translator” or “online German tutor for beginners.”

Mobile Optimization: So many people will view your site on their phones.

Security: SSL certificate (https) – small but builds trust.

🖋️ Key Website Elements for Translators

Portfolio or Sample Projects: With client permission or anonymized samples.

Industries/Subject Areas: Be specific – “marketing & legal” is better than “various.”

CAT Tools/Software: Mention tools you’re comfortable with (e.g., Trados, MemoQ).

File Formats Accepted: PDF, Word, InDesign – clarify what you work with.

Rates or Process for Quoting: Even if you don’t list rates, explain how quotes work.

Languages Display: Multilingual site, or at least consider content in your working languages.

🎙️ Key Website Elements for Interpreters

Modes of Interpreting: Consecutive, simultaneous, whispered, remote, etc.

Settings: Conference, court, medical, community – be specific.

Certifications or Associations: Especially for regulated sectors (e.g., NRPSI, AIIC).

Booking Information: Real-time availability, booking form, or a clear next step.

Audio or Video Samples: Especially for voice-based work (with client permission).

On-Site vs Remote Availability: Geo-location info and willingness to travel.

📚 Key Website Elements for Language Teachers

Target Audience: Adults, kids, corporate clients? Beginner, advanced?

Lesson Types & Formats: Online, in person, group, 1:1, intensive courses?

Scheduling Tool: Integrate something like Calendly or Book Like a Boss.

Lesson Packages / Pricing: Offer structure – ‘Try a taster session!’ helps conversion.

Student Testimonials or Case Studies: Show your teaching works.

Teaching Philosophy: Brief but meaningful – why you love teaching, your approach.

Credentials & Experience: Degree, certifications, years of experience, any curriculum designed.