Adding a language switcher to your website is essential for creating a seamless experience on a multilingual WordPress website or other platforms like Webflow or Squarespace. With Weglot’s easy-to-use features, you can customize the language switcher to fit your website’s design and functionality perfectly. This guide explores the benefits of the Weglot switcher, how to use it, and tips for customizing its position and appearance.
What is the Weglot Language Switcher?
The Weglot language switcher is a built-in widget that allows your website visitors to select their preferred language effortlessly. By integrating it, you make your site accessible in multiple languages, enhancing user experience and boosting your global reach.
Why the Weglot Switcher is Essential:
- Multilingual Functionality: It enables language switching in real-time.
- Customizable Design: You can adjust its appearance to align with your website’s style.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Works with WordPress, Squarespace, Webflow, and more.
- Easy Setup: Add the language switcher to your WordPress site or other CMSs without needing coding skills.
How to Add the Weglot Language Switcher to Your Website
Step 1: Install the Weglot Plugin
- WordPress: Install the Weglot plugin from the WordPress Admin dashboard under Plugins > Add New.
- Webflow or Squarespace: Add the Weglot integration by pasting the provided source code into your site’s HTML.
Tip: Sign up for a Weglot account to get started.
Step 2: Add Languages
- Log in to your Weglot dashboard.
- Add multiple languages to your site, specifying the original and target languages.
- Preview your website to see the Weglot switcher live and accessible.
Customizing the Weglot Language Switcher
Weglot provides several possibilities to customize the design, position, and functionality of the switcher.
Use the Switcher Editor
The Switcher Editor allows you to change the design and position of the Weglot language switcher directly from the Weglot dashboard.
Customization Options:
- Change the Position: Drag and drop the switcher to place it where you want on your website.
- Switcher Design: Adjust the size, style, and dropdown options to match your site’s aesthetics.
- Language Options: Display language names, language codes, or flags.
Example: Use the full language name for clarity or show language codes for a minimalist design.
Adding the Language Switcher with Shortcode
For WordPress users, Weglot provides a shortcode that allows you to place the switcher anywhere on your website, such as in headers, footers, or sidebars.
Steps to Use the Shortcode:
- Copy the Weglot shortcode from your dashboard.
- Paste it into your WordPress theme or widget area.
- Preview the placement to ensure it fits your layout.
Advanced Customization with CSS
For those looking to create a custom switcher, Weglot supports custom CSS for advanced design tweaks.
Example CSS Adjustments:
- Change font size or color to fit your site’s branding.
- Add spacing to align the widget with other menu items.
- Adjust dropdown menus to improve usability.
Tip: Look at Weglot’s Help Center for examples and guidance on CSS customization.
Positioning the Weglot Switcher
The position of the Weglot language switcher is fully customizable to ensure it fits your site’s layout.
Methods to Change the Position:
- Drag and Drop: Use the visual editor to drag and drop the switcher.
- Edit the Template: Adjust the source code of your HTML page for precise placement.
- Menu Integration: Place the switcher within the navigation bar by editing the order of the items in your menu.
Tips for Optimizing the Language Switcher
- Keep it Visible: Position the switcher in a prominent location, such as the header or sidebar.
- Ensure Usability: Use dropdown menus for sites with multiple languages.
- Match Your Style: Customize the switcher’s design to blend seamlessly with your website.
Benefits of the Weglot Language Switcher
Seamless Multilingual Integration
- Add a language switcher to your WordPress website or other CMS platforms easily.
- No coding required for basic customization.
Enhanced User Experience
- Visitors can choose their preferred language with a simple click.
- The language switcher by default supports dropdown menus and language codes.
Flexibility and Control
- Use custom integrations for advanced functionality.
- The Switcher Editor allows you to manage appearance, order, and position effortlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Add a New Language to the Switcher?
Log in to the Weglot dashboard, go to the language settings, and click Add a new language. The switcher will automatically update.
Can I Customize the Design of the Switcher?
Yes! You can use the visual editor or write custom CSS to fully customize your language switcher’s appearance.
Does the Switcher Support SEO?
Absolutely. The Weglot language switcher helps create SEO-friendly multilingual websites, ensuring your site is visible in search engines in all supported languages.
Conclusion
The Weglot switcher is an indispensable tool for any website aiming to provide a smooth multilingual experience. Its flexibility, ease of use, and powerful customization options make it an ideal choice for WordPress, Webflow, Squarespace, and other CMS platforms.
Ready to enhance your multilingual website? Sign up for Weglot and customize your language switcher to take your website to the next level.