If you're trying to make your client pitches stand out, boring slides just won’t cut it. Video, audio, and a bit of multimedia can turn a snooze-fest into something memorable—if you do it right. This guide is for anyone who wants to use Decktopus to add that extra spark to presentations, without getting lost in tech headaches or wasting time on stuff that doesn’t work.
Let’s get straight to it.
Why Bother With Multimedia in Your Pitches?
Before we dive into the how, let’s be honest: most slideshows are bad. They’re walls of text, generic stock images, and half-hearted bullet points. That’s a recipe for glazed eyes.
Adding video or audio can: - Show a product in action (instead of just talking about it) - Humanize your message with a quick introduction or testimonial - Break up monotony and reset attention spans
But let’s not oversell it—multimedia won’t save a pitch if your story is weak. Use it to support your ideas, not as a gimmick.
What Multimedia Can You Actually Use in Decktopus?
Decktopus (here’s what I’m talking about) is a web-based presentation tool. It’s not PowerPoint, and it’s not a video editor. Here’s what works:
- Video embeds (from YouTube, Vimeo, Loom, etc.)
- Audio embeds (think background music or podcasts—mostly as links)
- GIFs and animated images
- Static images and icons (for context)
What doesn’t work: - Uploading giant video files directly (Decktopus doesn’t host your videos) - Complex interactive widgets (polls, quizzes, etc., are limited) - Direct audio uploads (you’ll need to link from elsewhere)
Bottom line: If your media lives online and has a shareable link, you’re probably fine.
Step 1: Prep Your Content (Don’t Skip This)
A little prep saves a lot of headaches later. Here’s what to do before you even open Decktopus:
- Decide what’s actually worth embedding. Just because you can add a video on every slide doesn’t mean you should. Pick moments where media adds something people can’t get from text or you talking.
- Host your videos somewhere reliable. YouTube and Vimeo are obvious choices. Loom works for screen recordings. Don’t use random file-sharing sites—links break and playback can be spotty.
- Trim your media. No one wants to watch a 5-minute explainer in the middle of a pitch. Short and specific beats long and generic.
- Check privacy settings. Make sure your video is viewable and doesn’t require a login.
Pro Tip: Watch the videos or listen to the audio yourself before embedding. Embarrassing autoplay ads or “private video” warnings are not the impression you want to make.
Step 2: Add Video to Your Decktopus Slides
Decktopus makes it easy to embed video, but it’s not magic. Here’s the step-by-step:
- Open your presentation and pick your slide.
- Click into the slide where you want the video to appear.
- Look for the “Add Block” or “+” button.
- Decktopus uses content blocks. Find the “Video” or “Media” block option.
- Paste your video link.
- Copy the share URL from YouTube, Vimeo, Loom, or wherever it’s hosted.
- Paste it into the provided field. Decktopus should recognize it instantly.
- Adjust placement and size.
- Most templates let you resize or move the video within the slide. Don’t make it too small—if it’s worth embedding, make it visible.
- Test the playback.
- Use the Decktopus preview mode. Make sure it loads and plays as expected.
What Can Go Wrong: - Private/unlisted videos: If your video is restricted, it might not play for everyone. - Weird aspect ratios: Decktopus does its best to fit videos, but vertical videos or odd sizes may look awkward. - Autoplay: Most platforms don’t autoplay embedded videos anymore (and that’s probably for the best), but double-check if you’re relying on it.
Step 3: Embedding Other Multimedia (GIFs, Audio, etc.)
Adding GIFs and Animated Images
- Use the “Image” content block.
- Paste the direct link to your GIF (from Giphy, Tenor, or a reliable host).
- Sometimes, uploading the GIF directly works, but check playback—it can be hit or miss.
Caution: GIFs can be fun, but too many will make your pitch look unprofessional. Use them sparingly.
Embedding Audio
Decktopus doesn’t natively host or stream audio files. Here’s how to work around it:
- Upload your audio to a service like SoundCloud or even YouTube (with a blank image).
- Use the “Embed” or “Link” block to add a play button or clickable link.
- Alternatively, link to the audio in your slide notes or follow-up materials.
Real Talk: Audio rarely works well in live pitches unless you control the playback. There’s always a risk of technical hiccups or awkward silences. Consider skipping it unless it’s crucial.
Step 4: Optimize for Your Audience
A slick video means nothing if your audience can’t see or hear it. Here’s what to check:
- Internet connection: Decktopus streams media. Weak wifi = buffering and embarrassment.
- Device compatibility: Test your presentation on the device and browser you’ll use. Chrome is usually safest.
- Backup plan: Always have a version of your pitch without media—either as a PDF, or with talking points in case the tech fails.
Pro Tip: If you’re sending the slides ahead of time, include a note: “Best viewed with sound on and a good internet connection.”
Step 5: Keep It Simple (and Don’t Overdo It)
It’s tempting to go wild once you know how to embed everything. Resist.
- Stick to one video per major point, max.
- Keep your slides uncluttered. Too much media = distraction.
- Remember why you’re adding multimedia. If it doesn’t clarify or persuade, leave it out.
A well-placed 30-second demo beats a reel of every marketing video your company has ever made.
Troubleshooting: Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Here are some real-world issues people run into:
- Video won’t load: Double-check your link. Make sure it’s public and hasn’t been deleted.
- No audio: Some browsers block autoplay with sound. Have a backup plan to narrate or summarize.
- Slides freeze or lag: Heavy GIFs or lots of embeds can slow things down. Trim the fat.
- Corporate firewalls: Some clients can’t access YouTube or Vimeo. Ask ahead, or host on a platform they can reach.
Pro Tip: Always assume something will go wrong. Have your core message ready to deliver with or without the multimedia.
Advanced: Using Decktopus Features for Smoother Flow
If you want to get fancy (without wasting hours), try these:
- Slide transitions: Decktopus has basic transitions. Use them to keep things smooth, but don’t distract.
- Timing controls: Some templates let you control when a video appears. Practice so you don’t get thrown off mid-pitch.
- Sharing options: Use Decktopus’s “share” link for remote pitches so you know what your client sees.
Just remember: Features are tools, not the show. Keep your focus on the story you’re telling.
Wrapping Up: Don’t Let Tech Get in the Way
Embedding video and multimedia in Decktopus slides isn’t hard, but it does take a little planning. Focus on what actually helps your pitch—skip the bells and whistles that don’t serve your story.
Start simple. Try one video, maybe a GIF if it fits, and see how it lands. Iterate from there. The best decks aren’t the flashiest—they’re the ones that get your point across without distractions.
Happy pitching.