HTML that utilizes embed codes from platforms like Youtube, Instagram, Vimeo, ect... can be useful for quickly adding engaging content to your emails. Unfortunately, this actually a vulnerability and could be used as a vector to attack someone via web browsers. To prevent this from dangers associated with embedded HTML, all major email platforms set a ground rule that embedding is strictly not allowed in email. When they see the embed code, they will outright refuse to render it, and this cannot be bypassed. Here are some helpful tips for adding videos to your email:
- If you are using a YouTube or Vimeo video, insert "Video" content piece into your email and simply add the URL and a thumbnail will automatically populate.
- If you are using a private video or another video provider, here are some great options to display videos for best engagement:
- GIF with clickable link: Add a customized GIF to your Workshop File Manager. You can make a free GIF with a video here. Drag the "Image" content button into your email, then select your GIF. Once added, navigate to "Actions" on the right hand side and add the video URL. Then, the GIF will be clickable and open a web page to display your video.
- Thumbnail with clickable link: Create a thumbnail of your video through Instagram, Canva or Adobe express. Upload the thumbnail in your File Manager. Once your image is inserted in email, navigate to "Actions" on the right hand side and add the video URL. Then, the thumbnail will be clickable and open a web page to display your video.
- You can take this method one step further and do a "play button" overlay for more enhanced call out. You can upload your thumbnail to this free site and it will add it for you.
- Button: Add a button to your email and rename button as "Watch Now" or "Click here for video". Navigate to "Actions" on the right hand side and add the video URL. Then, the button will be clickable and open a web page to display your video.