If you’re sending cold messages or follow-ups on LinkedIn and getting crickets, you’re not alone. People’s inboxes are packed. Text-only pitches get ignored. Video can help, but LinkedIn does not make embedding video easy.
This guide is for anyone who wants to use personalized video (like with Sendspark) in LinkedIn DMs and actually get responses—without looking spammy or techy. We’ll go step-by-step, look at what really works, and call out what’s just wishful thinking.
Why Use Video in LinkedIn Messages?
Here’s the honest truth: Most LinkedIn messages are just copy-paste templates. That’s why people scroll past them.
A short, personal video stands out. People can see your face, hear your voice, and feel like you actually care. That’s the pitch for video.
But let’s get real about expectations: - Video won’t magically fix a crappy message or product. - If your intro is vague or desperate, video won’t save you. - But if you’re reaching out thoughtfully, a video can get you opened and remembered.
Bottom line: Video is a great icebreaker, not a silver bullet.
What You Can (and Can’t) Embed in LinkedIn Messages
Let’s clear something up: LinkedIn doesn’t let you embed playable videos directly in DMs. You can’t have your video auto-play or show up like it does in your feed.
What does work: - Thumbnail images with a link (the best option): Shows a preview image; user clicks and watches your video on another page. - Plain links: Less visual, but still clickable. - Native LinkedIn video: You can record right in LinkedIn, but you lose the fancy personalization of tools like Sendspark.
Ignore: - Embed codes (they don’t work in DMs) - Animated GIFs as video (sometimes they show, sometimes they don’t—LinkedIn is inconsistent)
So, your best bet is sending a thumbnail image of your video that links to the full video. That’s what Sendspark is designed for.
Step-by-Step: How to Embed a Sendspark Video in a LinkedIn Message
Let’s walk through the whole process, from recording to sending. No fluff.
1. Record or Upload Your Video in Sendspark
- Log in to Sendspark.
- Click “New Video” and record, or upload a pre-recorded clip.
- Personalize your video for the person you’re messaging. Use their name, mention their company, whatever makes it clear this isn’t a mass-blast.
Pro tip: Keep it short. 30-60 seconds is ideal. Nobody wants to watch a TED Talk in their DMs.
2. Generate a LinkedIn-Friendly Video Link
Once your video is ready: - Click the “Share” or “Copy Link” button in Sendspark. - Look for the option to “Copy GIF & Link” or “Copy Thumbnail & Link.” This gives you a little animated preview or static image, hyperlinked to your video page.
Heads up: Don’t just copy the raw video file or embed code; LinkedIn DMs won’t know what to do with that.
3. Paste Into Your LinkedIn Message
Go to LinkedIn, start a message, and paste what you copied from Sendspark.
- If Sendspark gave you a GIF or image, paste it directly. LinkedIn will usually show the thumbnail as a preview. If not, you may need to upload the image separately and include the link underneath.
- If you’re only given a link, paste that—and write a quick, clear message around it.
Sample message:
Hey [Name],
I recorded a quick video just for you (promise, it’s 40 seconds):
[Thumbnail or GIF preview] [Link]
Would love to hear your thoughts!
Pro tip: Put the link on its own line. LinkedIn’s preview works better that way, and it’s easier to spot.
4. Double-Check the Preview
Send a test message to yourself or a colleague. Make sure: - The thumbnail or GIF appears as intended. - The link actually goes to your video. - There’s no weird formatting.
If LinkedIn only shows the link (no image), don’t panic. Some users’ settings or browsers block previews. As long as the link works, you’re still in business.
What Actually Boosts Response Rates (and What Doesn’t)
Let’s get honest for a minute. Most “personalized video” messages flop because they’re generic or desperate. Here’s what moves the needle:
Works:
- Truly personal intros (“I saw you spoke at X event last week...”)
- Short, specific videos (get to the point, show your face)
- Clear ask (“Mind if I send over more details?”)
- Thumbnail with a friendly face (smiling helps, seriously)
Doesn’t Work:
- Mass-blasted “personalized” videos (people can spot fake personal touches)
- Videos longer than a minute (nobody’s got time)
- Tech jargon or heavy sales pitch
- Just dropping a link with zero context
Ignore:
- Fancy video effects or background music (just distracts)
- Overly formal scripts (“Dear Sir or Madam…” – please, don’t)
- Worrying about the perfect thumbnail (good enough is good enough)
Common Pitfalls (And How to Avoid Them)
- Thumbnail not showing up: LinkedIn can be finicky. If the image doesn’t appear, upload the thumbnail directly, then add the link below.
- Message gets flagged as spam: Don’t send too many links at once. Personalize your intro, or LinkedIn’s algorithm might throttle you.
- Video page loads slow: Make sure your Sendspark video is set to public and loads quickly. People won’t wait.
- Copy-paste fails: Always test your message before sending to prospects. Glitches happen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I embed a video that auto-plays in LinkedIn DMs?
Nope. LinkedIn doesn’t support auto-playing video in messages. You can only send thumbnails or links.
Will a Sendspark GIF preview always show up?
Not always. It depends on LinkedIn’s current rules and the recipient’s settings. That’s why adding a text line (“Here’s a quick video for you: [link]”) is smart.
Does Sendspark notify me if someone watches my video?
Yes. Sendspark lets you know when your video is viewed, which is handy for follow-ups.
Is this against LinkedIn’s rules?
No, as long as you’re not spamming. Sending personalized messages with video links is fine; just don’t blast thousands of them a day.
Keep It Simple and Iterate
Here’s the bottom line: Embedding a Sendspark video in a LinkedIn message isn’t rocket science, but it’s also not a magic trick. Use a real thumbnail, send a clear, personal message, and don’t overthink it.
Test what works for your audience. If nobody clicks, tweak your message or video. Keep it short, be yourself, and focus on starting real conversations—not just hitting send.
If you get stuck, remember: simple beats clever, every time. Happy messaging.