Why non-native English-speaking UX writers bring unique value to the field

Becoming a UX Writer/Content Designer is not an easy journey; especially for non-native English speakers. I was rejected from a job opportunity because of my language background. While I’ve read many articles that claim we’re past this bias, it’s still prevalent.

That’s why I want to make a case for the value that non-native English-speaking UX writers bring to the field. After all, we work hard to continuously learn the language, and we have a lot to offer in terms of creating engaging user experiences.

Clear and concise communication

One of the great things about non-native English speakers is our ability to communicate clearly and concisely. We’re not afraid to fight off jargon and complex sentences; a crucial skill for UX writing.

We understand the importance of simplicity and clarity and can identify and eliminate language barriers that could prevent users from engaging with a product.

🔎 Related: Five ways to be a better UX writer

Context switching

In many countries where English is not the main language, such as Romania, British English is often taught in schools. American English is used more frequently in professional settings.

People who come from these regions are well-versed in both dialects, which is a valuable asset for companies with global audiences. It demonstrates our ability to adapt to different linguistic styles and preferences. But, it also shows that we are aware of the nuances and differences between English dialects.

Fresh perspective

We’re also able to bring a fresh perspective to the field. We can challenge the status quo and bring new ideas and approaches to the table.

Our diverse experiences and backgrounds allow us to come up with creative solutions that may not have been considered.

Localisation readiness

Since we already speak at least two languages, we can better prepare for localisation. We understand the nuances of language and can think of copy from the perspective of a native speaker or any other language we may be familiar with. We can create content that is easier to translate and localise, making it more accessible to a wider range of users.

By considering the needs of different cultures and languages from the get-go, we can save time and resources down the line. This also ensures that the product is better prepared for different markets. Yet another vital skill for UX Writers.

Cultural sensitivity

When we grow up learning different languages, we also get familiar with cultural nuances and differences. We have a greater appreciation for diversity and inclusivity. We can ensure that the product we’re writing for is culturally sensitive and accessible to users from all backgrounds.

This is particularly important in today’s globalised world as products and services are often used by people from different countries and cultures.

Language proficiency is important, but…

It’s important to acknowledge that language proficiency is still an important factor in UX writing and any writing, for that matter. However, it’s also important to recognise that it’s NOT the only factor that determines a writer’s ability to create delightful experiences.

As non-native speakers, we bring a valuable perspective and skillset to the table, and should not be discounted simply because of our language background.

Conclusion

We can be an invaluable asset to the field of UX writing because we bring a unique perspective, skill set, and cultural sensitivity that can help create better user experiences.

By embracing and valuing our contributions, we can create a more diverse and inclusive UX community that benefits everyone.

So let’s celebrate our differences and come together to create amazing user experiences!

===

Now you’ve read this, you may be interested in