Author Tim Ferriss Offers The Key To “The 4-Hour Workweek”

Best selling author Tim Ferriss opened Mediabistro Circus today with a dynamic presentation about self promotion. “Don’t be lazy,” he told an audience filled with journalists, writers and professionals in PR, advertising and design — many who are freelancing and know how much hard work it takes to be successful.

Our colleagues at WebNewser have a great run down of his speech, in which the author of “The 4-Hour Workweek” revealed that he makes money primarily as a speaker at events like the Circus. His blog helps sell books, which “help keep Ferriss a hot commodity on the speaker’s circuit, and that’s where the money is made,” WebNewser explains. He can earn a 5-figure fee for an event like Mediabistro Circus.

And if you want another tip from Ferriss, don’t waste time or money on a PR firm, he said. From WebNewser:

Ferris says he spent $25,000 to get the word out about “4-Hour.” “I spent $18,000 on a PR firm which was a big waste of money.” The other $7,000 was spent on sending galleys and meeting in person with influential bloggers. “Buy them alcohol,” he advised.

Create a social media strategy, launch your campaign, and track the results in our Social Media Marketing Boot Camp starting February 16. The online event and workshop will feature speakers including The Onion‘s Baratunde Thurston (left), Facebook’s Morin Oluwole, and bitly’s Tim Devane. Register now.