Ever feel like your emails get ignored, even when you’ve got something important to say? You’re not alone. Video messages are a solid way to stand out, but juggling tools can be a pain. If you’re using a CRM and want to add personal video messages without creating a mess, this guide is for you.
Here’s how to connect Bombbomb—a simple video messaging tool—with your CRM, so you can send, track, and automate videos without losing your mind or your workflow.
Why Bother Integrating Bombbomb with Your CRM?
Let’s be real: Nobody wants to copy-paste contacts or hunt down which leads got a video. Integrating Bombbomb with your CRM means:
- Fewer tabs, less hassle: Record and send videos right from your CRM.
- Automatic tracking: See who watched your video, clicked, or ignored it.
- Better follow-up: Trigger automations based on video engagement.
- Cleaner records: Keep everything tied to the right contact or deal.
But not every CRM plays nice, and “integration” can mean anything from “full-featured” to “barely works.” Let’s break down what actually matters.
Step 1: Check If Your CRM Is Supported (and How)
Bombbomb has direct integrations with some CRMs, and zapier-style connections for others. Here’s what to look for:
The “Easy Button” CRMs
Bombbomb has native integrations (meaning you get more features, less headache) with:
- Salesforce
- HubSpot
- Follow Up Boss
- Real Geeks
- Gmail/Outlook (technically not a CRM, but still handy)
With these, you can usually record, send, and track videos without leaving your CRM.
The “Workaround” CRMs
If you’re using something less mainstream (think Zoho, Pipedrive, Microsoft Dynamics, or custom setups), you’ll likely rely on:
- Zapier: Automate sending videos or updating records when something happens.
- Chrome Extensions: Use Bombbomb’s browser tools to inject videos into emails manually.
- API: If you’re technical, Bombbomb’s API lets you build your own connections.
Pro tip: Don’t assume “integration” means you get every feature. Sometimes it just means you can paste a video link.
Step 2: Set Up the Integration
Let’s walk through what setup actually looks like. I’ll focus on Salesforce and HubSpot, since they’re the most common, but I’ll touch on the DIY routes too.
A. Native Integration (Salesforce or HubSpot)
1. Get Access
- Make sure you have a Bombbomb account (not just a trial).
- You’ll need admin access to your CRM.
2. Install the Integration
- Salesforce: Find the Bombbomb app on Salesforce AppExchange and install it. Follow Bombbomb’s step-by-step wizard. You’ll grant permissions and log into your Bombbomb account when prompted.
- HubSpot: Go to HubSpot’s Marketplace, search for Bombbomb, and connect your account. Authorize the permissions.
3. Add Bombbomb to Your CRM Layout
- In Salesforce, add the Bombbomb widget to your lead/contact/deal pages.
- In HubSpot, you’ll see a Bombbomb panel in your contact timeline.
4. Test It
- Try sending a video email from a test contact. Make sure tracking works—did you get notified when it was opened?
5. Tweak Permissions
- Decide who on your team gets access. Limit it to people who’ll actually use it.
B. Workarounds (Other CRMs)
Zapier
- Set up a Zap: “When a new contact is added in [Your CRM], create/send a Bombbomb video email.”
- The catch: You’ll need to pre-record videos or use Bombbomb’s templates. Personalized, one-off videos are trickier.
Chrome Extension
- Install Bombbomb’s Chrome extension.
- When writing an email in your CRM’s web interface, use the extension to drop in a video.
- No tracking tied directly to the CRM record, but it’s better than nothing.
API
- Only go here if you have a developer.
- You can push video links into CRM records or pull contact data into Bombbomb.
- Honestly, unless you’ve got a big team and custom needs, it’s overkill.
Step 3: Build a Simple Video Messaging Workflow
Integration is just the start. Here’s how to actually use Bombbomb in a way that saves time and helps you connect with leads.
1. Identify When to Use Video
Don’t send a video for every email. Use them when:
- Introducing yourself to a new lead
- Following up after a call or meeting
- Explaining something complex (screenshares work well here)
- Re-engaging cold leads
2. Record the Right Kind of Video
Keep it tight—30-60 seconds. Look at the camera, say the person’s name if you can, and get to the point. No need for fancy equipment.
3. Use Templates and Snippets
Most CRMs let you create email templates. Combine Bombbomb’s video snippets with your templates so you’re not reinventing the wheel every time.
- Create a “Nice to meet you” template with a spot for a video.
- Have a “Quick answer to your question” template ready to go.
4. Automate Where It Makes Sense
With native integrations, you can trigger Bombbomb videos as part of workflows:
- New lead enters pipeline → Send intro video
- Deal hits “stalled” stage → Send check-in video
But don’t over-automate. If every lead gets a “personalized” video that’s clearly generic, people will tune out.
5. Track Results (But Don’t Obsess)
You’ll see open rates, play rates, and clicks—right in your CRM. Use this to spot who’s engaged, but don’t get too hung up on the numbers.
If someone watches your video but doesn’t reply, it’s still a touch point. Follow up in a human way.
What Works, What Doesn’t, and What to Ignore
Works Well
- Warm intros: Video stands out when you’re just another name in the inbox.
- Explaining tricky stuff: A quick screen recording can save a dozen emails.
- Re-engagement: Lapsed leads often respond better to a face than a form letter.
Doesn’t Work So Well
- Mass video blasts: People can smell a “personalized” video that isn’t.
- Overly polished videos: Don’t spend hours editing. Authentic beats perfect.
- Relying on automation for everything: You still need to actually talk to people.
Ignore the Hype
- “Video will 10x your close rate!” Maybe your open rates go up, maybe not. It’s a tool, not magic.
- “Seamless integration” is often marketing speak. Test things yourself.
Common Gotchas (And How to Avoid Them)
- Permissions headaches: Make sure users have the right access in both Bombbomb and your CRM.
- Broken tracking: Always send a test first. Sometimes tracking pixels get blocked.
- Data privacy: Don’t send sensitive info in videos. Remember, videos can be shared.
- Contacts not syncing: Double-check field mapping during setup—especially if you’re using Zapier.
Keep It Simple, Iterate as You Go
You don’t need a big launch or perfect setup. Start by sending a few videos to warm leads from your CRM. Watch what works, ignore what doesn’t, and keep tweaking. Don’t let “integration” become an excuse to overcomplicate things. The real value is in personal, human outreach—tech should just make it easier.
Ready? Give it a shot, and adjust as you go. If you hit a snag, don’t be afraid to keep things manual for a while. Sometimes, simple just works.