How to Use Vidyard AI Features to Save Hours of Work in 2026

Quick Start

This guide covers every Vidyard feature:

• Getting Started — Create your account and record your first video
• How to Use AI Avatars — Generate videos from text without turning on your camera
• How to Use Prospector — Find and reach buyers with targeted video outreach
• How to Use Integrations — Connect Vidyard with your CRM and sales tools
• How to Use Insights — Track who watches your videos and for how long
• How to Use Templates — Send consistent messages with ready-made video layouts
• How to Use Video Agents — Automate personalized video delivery at scale
• How to Use Video Messaging — Record and send quick videos via email or chat
• How to Use Video Hosting — Store, organize, and embed videos on your site
• How to Use Converting & Closing — Turn viewers into leads with CTAs and forms

Time needed: 5 minutes per feature

Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Troubleshooting | Pricing | Alternatives

Why Trust This Guide

I’ve used Vidyard for over two years and tested every feature covered here. This how to use Vidyard AI tutorial comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.

Vidyard is one of the most powerful AI video messaging tools available today.

But most users only scratch the surface of what it can do.

This guide shows you how to use every major feature.

Step by step, with screenshots and pro tips.

Vidyard Tutorial

This complete Vidyard tutorial walks you through every feature step by step, from initial setup to advanced tips that will make you a power user.

Vidyard

Create and send personalized video messages that get replies. Vidyard’s AI avatars and video agents let you scale outreach without losing the human touch. Start free — no credit card required.

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Getting Started with Vidyard

Before using any feature, complete this one-time setup.

It takes about 3 minutes.

Watch this quick overview first:

Now let’s walk through each step.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Go to vidyard.com and click “Sign Up for Free.”

Enter your work email and create a password.

You can also sign up with your Google account.

✓ Checkpoint: Check your inbox for a confirmation email.

Step 2: Install the Chrome Extension

Go to the Chrome Web Store and search “Vidyard.”

Click “Add to Chrome” and pin the extension.

Here’s what the dashboard looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see the Vidyard icon in your browser toolbar.

Step 3: Record a Test Video

Click the Vidyard icon and select your recording mode.

Choose Screen, Camera, or Screen + Camera.

Record a short clip and hit Stop to save it.

How to Use Vidyard AI Avatars

AI Avatars lets you create videos from text without recording on camera.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch AI Avatars in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Record Your Training Video

Go to AI Avatars in your Vidyard dashboard.

Record a 90-second training video of yourself speaking.

The AI studies your face, voice, and gestures.

Step 2: Write or Generate a Script

Type your script or use the AI script generator.

You can personalize each video with the viewer’s name.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see a preview of your script in the editor.

Step 3: Generate and Send Your Video

Click “Generate Video” and wait for processing.

Your AI avatar delivers the script in your voice and style.

Share via email, link, or your sales platform.

How to Use Vidyard Prospector

Prospector lets you find and reach the right buyers with video outreach.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Prospector in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Define Your Target Audience

Open the Prospector tool from the Vidyard dashboard.

Set your filters by industry, company size, or job title.

Step 2: Build Your Prospect List

Browse matching contacts and add them to your list.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see your saved prospect list with contact details.

Step 3: Launch Video Outreach

Select prospects and create personalized video messages.

Send directly through email or your connected sales tool.

How to Use Vidyard Integrations

Integrations lets you connect Vidyard with your CRM and sales tools.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Integrations in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the Integrations Menu

Go to Settings and click “Integrations.”

You’ll see a list of supported tools like Salesforce and HubSpot.

Step 2: Connect Your Tools

Click “Connect” next to your CRM or sales platform.

Follow the authorization prompts to grant access.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see a green “Connected” status next to your tool.

Step 3: Test the Connection

Send a test video and check if it appears in your CRM.

Video engagement data should sync automatically.

How to Use Vidyard Insights

Insights lets you track who watches your videos and how they engage.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Open the Analytics Dashboard

Click “Insights” in the left sidebar of your Vidyard account.

You’ll see an overview of all your video performance.

Step 2: Review Viewer Data

Click any video to see who watched it and for how long.

You can see individual viewer attention spans and drop-off points.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see viewer names, watch times, and engagement scores.

Step 3: Act on Engagement Signals

Set up real-time notifications for when prospects watch your video.

Follow up immediately when a buyer shows high engagement.

How to Use Vidyard Templates

Templates lets you create reusable video layouts for consistent messaging.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Templates in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Browse the Template Library

Go to “Templates” in your Vidyard dashboard.

Browse templates by category: prospecting, follow-up, or demos.

Step 2: Customize Your Template

Select a template and edit the script, CTA, and branding.

Add your company logo and colors for a polished look.

✓ Checkpoint: Your template should show your custom branding and message.

Step 3: Save and Share with Your Team

Click “Save Template” and share it with your sales team.

Every rep can now use the same proven messaging.

How to Use Vidyard Video Agents

Video Agents lets you automate personalized video delivery based on buyer actions.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Video Agents in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Set Up Trigger Events

Open Video Agents from your Vidyard dashboard.

Define triggers like “prospect visits pricing page” or “books a demo.”

Step 2: Create the Automated Video

Write a script for each trigger event.

Your AI avatar will deliver the message when triggered.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see your workflow listed with active triggers and scripts.

Step 3: Activate and Monitor

Turn on the workflow and let Video Agent run on autopilot.

Monitor delivery and engagement in the Insights dashboard.

How to Use Vidyard Video Messaging

Video Messaging lets you record and send quick personal videos via email.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Video Messaging in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the Recorder

Click the Vidyard icon in your browser or email client.

Choose Screen, Camera, or Screen + Camera mode.

Step 2: Record Your Message

Hit Record and deliver your message naturally.

Use speaker notes if you need a script to follow.

✓ Checkpoint: A preview of your video should appear when you hit Stop.

Step 3: Share Your Video

Copy the link or insert the video directly into your email.

Vidyard creates an animated thumbnail that grabs attention.

How to Use Vidyard Video Hosting

Video Hosting lets you store, organize, and embed videos on your website.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Video Hosting in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Upload Your Video

Click “Upload” and select your video file (MP4, MOV, or WMV).

You can also drag and drop files into the library.

Step 2: Organize and Customize

Add a title, description, and custom thumbnail.

Sort videos into folders for easy access.

✓ Checkpoint: Your video should appear in your library with a custom thumbnail.

Step 3: Embed or Share

Copy the embed code to place the video on your website.

Or share the hosted link directly with viewers.

How to Use Vidyard Converting & Closing

Converting & Closing lets you turn video viewers into leads with CTAs and forms.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Converting & Closing in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Add a Call-to-Action

Open any video and click “Actions” in the editor.

Add a CTA button that appears during or after the video.

Step 2: Set Up Lead Capture Forms

Add an email gate or form overlay to your video.

Viewers enter their info before watching the full video.

✓ Checkpoint: Preview the video to see your CTA and form in action.

Step 3: Track Conversions

Check Insights to see how many viewers clicked your CTA.

Review which videos generate the most leads.

Vidyard Pro Tips and Shortcuts

After testing Vidyard for over two years, here are my best tips.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Hidden Features Most People Miss

• Speaker Notes: Open speaker notes in the extension to follow a script while recording — viewers won’t see them.
• Multi-Language AI Avatars: Generate avatar videos in over 25 languages for global outreach campaigns.
• Video Playlists: Group related videos into playlists and share a single link that plays them in order.

Vidyard Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Making Videos Too Long

Mistake #2: Skipping the Custom Thumbnail

Mistake #3: Not Checking Analytics

Vidyard Troubleshooting

Problem: Chrome Extension Won’t Record

Cause: Browser permissions for camera or microphone are blocked.

Fix: Click the lock icon in your address bar, allow camera and microphone access, then refresh the page.

Problem: Video Playback Is Laggy or Buffering

Cause: Your internet connection is too slow for the video quality.

Fix: Switch to a wired connection or lower the video quality in playback settings.

Problem: AI Avatar Doesn’t Look Like You

Cause: The training video had poor lighting or background noise.

Fix: Re-record your training video in natural light, in a quiet room, looking directly at the camera.

📌 Note: If none of these fix your issue, contact Vidyard support.

What is Vidyard?

Vidyard is an AI-powered video messaging platform that helps sales and marketing teams create, share, and track personalized videos.

Think of it like having a personal video studio and analytics dashboard built into your browser.

Watch this quick overview:

It includes these key features:

• AI Avatars: Generate realistic videos from text scripts without a camera.
• Prospector: Find the right buyers and send targeted video outreach.
• Integrations: Connect with Salesforce, HubSpot, Outreach, and more.
• Insights: Track viewer engagement with real-time analytics.
• Templates: Use ready-made video layouts for consistent team messaging.
• Video Agents: Automate personalized video delivery based on buyer actions.
• Video Messaging: Record and send quick videos from your browser or email.
• Video Hosting: Store, organize, and embed videos with custom branding.
• Converting & Closing: Add CTAs and forms to turn viewers into leads.

For a full review, see our Vidyard review.

Vidyard Pricing

Here’s what Vidyard costs in 2026:

Free trial: Yes, 14-day free trial on paid plans.

Money-back guarantee: No public refund policy — contact sales for details.

💰 Best Value: Starter plan — gives you unlimited videos, full analytics, and AI avatar access for one monthly fee.

Vidyard vs Alternatives

How does Vidyard compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:

Quick picks:

• Best overall: Vidyard — built for sales teams with deep CRM integration and AI outreach.
• Best budget: Veed — full video editing starting at just $9/month.
• Best for beginners: Synthesia — simple drag-and-drop AI video creation.
• Best for marketing teams: HeyGen — high-quality AI avatars for brand content.

🎯 Vidyard Alternatives

Looking for Vidyard alternatives? Here are the top options:

• 🚀 HeyGen: Create studio-quality AI avatar videos with 100+ templates and instant translations in 40+ languages.
• 🎨 Synthesia: Build professional training and explainer videos from text with 230+ AI avatars and no camera needed.
• 🏢 Colossyan: Design interactive learning videos with branching scenarios and multilingual AI presenters for enterprise training.
• ⚡ Veed: Edit videos fast with auto-subtitles, screen recording, and one-click resizing for social media.
• 🧠 Elai: Turn blog posts, URLs, and text into AI presenter videos in minutes with zero editing skills.
• 💰 Vidnoz: Get started with free AI avatar videos and affordable plans starting at $13.50/month.
• 🌟 DeepBrain: Create conversational AI videos with realistic avatars that respond to viewer input in real time.
• 🔧 Synthesys: Generate AI voiceovers and avatar videos for marketing content with natural-sounding speech.
• ⭐ Hour One: Produce AI presenter videos at scale with custom avatars and a built-in teleprompter editor.
• 🔒 D-ID: Animate photos into talking head videos with Creative Reality technology starting at $4.70/month.
• 👶 Virbo: Make AI talking avatar videos with lip-sync in 120+ languages — great for beginners and social creators.
• 🎯 Fliki: Turn text into video with AI voices, stock footage, and branded templates in under 2 minutes.
• 💼 Speechify: Convert text to natural speech and video with AI narration for audiobooks and content creators.
• 📊 InVideo: Build marketing videos fast with 5,000+ templates, stock media, and AI-powered editing tools.
• 🔥 Creatify: Generate AI ad videos from product URLs with automated scripts and performance-ready creatives.
• 🎬 Captions AI: Add auto-captions, eye contact correction, and AI editing to videos shot on your phone.

For the full list, see our Vidyard alternatives guide.

⚔️ Vidyard Compared

Here’s how Vidyard stacks up against each competitor:

• Vidyard vs HeyGen: Vidyard wins for sales outreach and CRM tracking. HeyGen wins for standalone AI video production quality.
• Vidyard vs Synthesia: Vidyard is better for sales teams. Synthesia is better for training and explainer content.
• Vidyard vs Colossyan: Vidyard focuses on revenue teams. Colossyan focuses on corporate learning and compliance training.
• Vidyard vs Veed: Vidyard has deeper analytics and sales tools. Veed is a faster, cheaper all-around video editor.
• Vidyard vs Elai: Vidyard automates sales follow-ups. Elai is better for turning blog content into quick videos.
• Vidyard vs Vidnoz: Vidyard offers enterprise-grade analytics. Vidnoz is more affordable for simple AI avatar videos.
• Vidyard vs DeepBrain: Vidyard has stronger sales integrations. DeepBrain excels at conversational AI video experiences.
• Vidyard vs Synthesys: Vidyard focuses on video messaging. Synthesys is better for voiceover and narration projects.
• Vidyard vs Hour One: Vidyard is built for sales teams. Hour One focuses on high-volume AI presenter video production.
• Vidyard vs D-ID: Vidyard gives you full sales workflow tools. D-ID is better for animating still photos into videos.
• Vidyard vs Virbo: Vidyard has deeper CRM connections. Virbo is better for social media creators and multilingual content.
• Vidyard vs Fliki: Vidyard tracks viewer engagement. Fliki is faster for text-to-video content with stock footage.
• Vidyard vs Speechify: Vidyard is a video-first platform. Speechify focuses on text-to-speech and audio content.
• Vidyard vs InVideo: Vidyard is built for sales outreach. InVideo is better for marketing video editing with templates.
• Vidyard vs Creatify: Vidyard offers video agents and CRM tools. Creatify is better for AI-generated ad creatives.
• Vidyard vs Captions AI: Vidyard handles business video messaging. Captions AI is better for mobile video editing and subtitles.

Start Using Vidyard Now

You learned how to use every major Vidyard feature:

• ✅ AI Avatars
• ✅ Prospector
• ✅ Integrations
• ✅ Insights
• ✅ Templates
• ✅ Video Agents
• ✅ Video Messaging
• ✅ Video Hosting
• ✅ Converting & Closing

Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.

Most people start with Video Messaging.

It takes less than 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use Vidyard?

Sign up for a free account, install the Chrome extension, and click the Vidyard icon to record. You can record your screen, camera, or both at once. After recording, Vidyard gives you a shareable link or lets you send the video directly through email.

What is the purpose of Vidyard?

Vidyard helps sales and marketing teams create personalized video messages that get more replies than plain text emails. It also provides analytics showing who watched your video and for how long, so you know which prospects are engaged.

Why use Vidyard instead of YouTube?

YouTube is great for public content, but Vidyard is built for business. Vidyard shows you exactly who watched your video, integrates with your CRM, and lets you add lead capture forms and CTAs. YouTube doesn’t offer individual viewer tracking.

How do I share a video on Vidyard?

After recording, click “Share” to copy the video link. You can paste it into any email, Slack message, or social post. Vidyard also integrates directly with Gmail, Outlook, Salesforce, and HubSpot for one-click video sharing.

How long can I record with Vidyard for free?

The free plan lets you record videos up to 30 minutes long. You also get up to 15 AI avatar videos and basic editing tools. For unlimited videos and full analytics, you’ll need the Starter plan at $59/seat/month.

How long should a Vidyard video be?

For sales outreach, keep videos under 90 seconds. Shorter videos get more views and higher completion rates. For product demos or training, 3 to 5 minutes works well if the content is focused and valuable.

How effective is Vidyard?

Vidyard reports that personalized video messages can drive up to 8x higher click-through rates and 4x more replies compared to text-only emails. Sales teams using video outreach often book more meetings and close deals faster.

Is Vidyard worth it?

If you send video messages regularly for sales or marketing, yes. The free plan is solid for individuals. The paid plans make sense for teams that need analytics, CRM sync, and automated outreach at scale.

What is Vidyard used for?

Vidyard is used for sales prospecting, deal follow-ups, marketing campaigns, customer success updates, and internal team communication. It combines video recording, AI avatars, hosting, and analytics in one platform built for revenue teams.