Social media has become increasingly important for actors and entertainers looking to get their names out there. As an accessible outlet for creativity, a means of making connections, and an opportunity to enter the public eye, social media can’t be beat. As NYC-based actor and producer Jason Abrams has learned, social media can be a powerful tool for aspiring creatives to express themselves and begin building their online reputation. Abrams has appeared in several notable productions, including Mad Men, The Sopranos, and The War of the Worlds (2007); now, he aims to make a name for himself in the social media sphere.
Abrams’ Approach to Social Media
Abrams’ Instagram account follows the actor through blizzards, pandemics, auditions, and more as he hangs out in NYC and attempts to cope with the chaos of modern life. In many of his bits, Abrams views these strange and unpredictable times through a comedic, often satirical lens. There are jokes about current events, politics, popular culture, social media trends, and anything else under the sun.
His series “The fACTUAL life of an NYC actor” explores – in Abrams’ typical comedic style – the life of an actor living and working in the Big Apple (roaches and all). From struggling to find an outfit for a casting call to getting weird in auditions, keeping in touch with family, having fun on social media, and more, it’s an expansive series that covers many universal facets of an actor’s life.
Beyond all the jokes, dance trends, and skits, Abrams is not afraid to get real and show some genuine human emotion and vulnerability. From hanging out with family members to opening up about his own struggles, Abrams presents a more genuine and approachable persona than the typical influencer.
Abrams’ YouTube channel, despite having fewer videos, displays a wider variety of content. Abrams’ acting reel, a vlog-style video documenting his trip to Poland to receive a hair transplant procedure, even a Men in Black-themed rap about social distancing procedures – he uses YouTube as an outlet for whatever form of creativity or expression strikes him.
Finding Your Own Social Media Style
Abrams believes that all aspiring actors should work on building their social media presence, but it’s important to find your own unique style. Different audiences prefer different content, tones, and hooks. Don’t be afraid to be yourself, but if you want to make a real splash, know what your audience wants and how to deliver it.
Whatever your style, post frequently (but not too frequently). Abrams posts several times a week, at least once every 1-4 days. He feels that this is a good balance for his content and audience, as he wants to keep people interested but hopes to avoid overloading them.
Social media popularity can give you a bigger taste of attention than you’ve ever received. If the thought of fifty thousand people across the world watching your video gives you the shivers, imagine how it’s going to feel when fifty million people are buying tickets at the box office to see your pretty face up on the silver screen. “Acting is nerve-wracking, there’s no doubt about it,” says Abrams, “but it’s some of the most fun you’ll ever have.”
If you ever manage to go viral, get comfortable with criticism or stay out of the comment sections. No matter who you are, there will be people that want to put you down. Some platforms and audiences are more accepting than others, but on average, there will be at least a few haters who feel the need to share their cynical opinions. It’s in everyone’s best interest to just ignore them.
Making Connections and Gaining Exposure
While the size of your social media presence might not factor in an audition, it can increase connections and exposure, both of which are critical in building and maintaining a successful career in the industry. Abrams hopes that the new influence he cultivates on social media will aid him in finding the next great opportunity in the entertainment industry.
Over the next year, Abrams will be focusing his efforts on building a community of committed followers around his social media content. He hopes to hit 50K followers soon, and after that, he knows that 100K is not far off. With his signature red hair, beard, and glasses, Abrams is an icon in the making. For now, Abrams is making sure to enjoy himself and have fun along the way.
Learn more about Jason Abrams on IMDb. Visit Abrams’ official website at https://thejasonabrams.com/. Follow him on Instagram (@jasonabramsnyc) and YouTube.
