3 Business Practices You MUST Follow When Doing Business in Canada

Expanding your business to Canada is a smart move. Many American companies look to Canada first when expanding their business abroad, and it is easy to see why. Globally, Canada has the 10th largest economy that continues to grow, and it is ranked 2nd best place to start a business.

If you are considering expanding your business to Canada, you must follow these 3 vital business practices to be successful.

1. Translate ALL Business Materials into French and English

Unbeknownst to many, Canada has 2 official languages – English & French. And, there are language laws in Canada (depending on the province) that require businesses to translate all their content, materials, and anything customer-facing into French.

Canada is culturally rooted in its French ancestry, and it is imperative that companies position their product and provide accurate translation with that in mind. Do not be fooled – Canadian French and French spoken in France have many linguistic differences. Make sure to partner with a professional translation company that utilizes NATIVE speakers of the target language.

2. Do Not Exaggerate Product/Service Features

Honesty is highly valued in Canadian culture. During your meetings with Canadian business partners it is essential that you do not over hype, exaggerate, or lie about the features of what you are presenting. You will be perceived as untrustworthy, fake, and deceitful if you embellish your product.  

The same goes for marketing your products to Canadian citizens. Advertising your product with exaggerated benefits and features will hinder your chances of being profitable. Your new consumers will see right through that facade and become distrustful of your brand.

3. Focus On Canadian Identity

Canadians value their cultural identity and do not take kindly to foreigners who try to force their culture onto them. Going into a business meeting as a boastful American, explaining why your product is better than anything Canada has ever seen is extremely unwise.

Focus your message on how your product or service will benefit the Canadian people and how it can be integrated into the Canadian identity. Remember that you are guest in their country, and your success depends on their acceptance. Act accordingly.

Professional Language Services Seal the Deal

A quarter of the Canadian population primarily speak French, which became the 2^nd official language of Canada in 1969. Quebec by far has the most French speaking citizens, and even has an office in place (Office québécois de la langue française (OQLF)) to preserve the French affluence.

Partnering with an experienced language services provider (LSP) is the only way to ensure that all your business-related translations follow Canadian language laws. Whether you need translation for product labels & instructions, employee handbooks, website localization, advertising, or any other business needs – you can feel secure in your international expansion partnering with the right LSP.