Biz Books Club

Get Rich Click!: The Ultimate Guide to Making Money on the Internet by Marc Ostrofsky

Review by Richard Pachter

Maybe this is a little “inside,” but in my ten years+ of writing biz book reviews and running a book club, I never — I mean NEVER — read club members’ or others’ reviews before I scribble my own. In fact, when publicists or pals send me reviews or links to reviews of books that I’m considering (or not), I refuse to look at ‘em.

I’m not a snob, lord knows, but I just don’t want to be influenced by anyone’s opinion. Period. I’m an impressionable fellow, and I might be influenced or persuaded to pay attention to something in a book that I’d otherwise miss or ignore. That’s fine after the fact, and I’ve gone back to many a book upon seeing a subsequent review, sure, but for me, reading is a visceral AND intellectual activity, so I like to think AND feel in real time before I write my own review. (But that’s just me. Your mileage may vary.)

But I broke my own rule with this book. I skimmed (just skimmed) a few reviews by club members.

Why?

Since this online book club is really a new venture and participants were actually paying for the privilege, I wanted to make dead sure that my first selection was solid, as far as the club members are concerned. I’d had this book for many months and knew that it’s a really terrific tome but maybe it wasn’t the same for everyone.

But honestly, many (or most) of us are on the Net for a good portion of the day, every day, either on computers or mobile devices, and have thought about monetizing the experience. Right?

Now, I already have an affiliate thing with Amazon, for example, so if you click on any of the books listed here or on my other websites, you’re taken to each book’s page on Amazon.com and if you decide to make a purchase, I get a few cents; a pittance, really, but it can add up — although it really doesn’t, at least not for me. I think I got enough credits from transactions to buy a tin of Irish Oatmeal, but it’s not about the money. I wouldn’t mind it, but there isn’t very much of it. As an author friend told me when we discussed the unintentionally pro bono nature of his own websites, “We do it for love.”

Well, yeah, but if one also wanted to devote their online time and energy to more materially productive and acquisitive pursuits, I really can think of no better resource than this deep and wide volume by Marc Ostrofsky.

It’s a tackle-bag of tactics. Not a lot of strategy here, if at all. But that’s fine. He provides (and briefy explains) so many different websites, tool and options that most anyone with half a brain can mix and match, and come up with a good plan — or several options.

Nothing literary or poetic here: He makes no pretense of it being anything other than a well-organized and actionable compendium of resources for anyone interested in making money from the Net right now. And Ostrofsky’s upbeat can-do demeanor is apparent throughout.

Though the Internet is itself a moving target, Ostrofsky lists time-tested (in Internet time, anyway) tools, as well as new sites and tactics that mostly require minimal technical expertise.

He includes recommendations for setting up websites, finding domains, using — and monetizing — Twitter, Facebook and other social sites, selling, buying and more. Plus, each chapter includes one or more QR codes (that you scan with a smart phone) that refer to value-added content; giveaways, premiums, promotions, trials and other goodies and relevant websites.

Here's an example of a QR code:

You may not be ready to start making money online, or like most of us, are too busy earning a living to get rich (I wish) but Get Rich Click is a really terrific resource and a potentially great catalyst for thought and action.

Get Rich Click!: The Ultimate Guide to Making Money on the Internet

The premise for this book was promising as the subject is both relevant and interesting for a wide range of people. Overall, the subject matter seemed comprehensive at first but after really digging into the chapters, became more focused and repetitive. I found the same ideas rehashed and presented in "cliched" form. Information was more generalized than I expected for a so-called guide. I also found the author spent too much space advertising his own products and programs instead of focusing on a more varied source of info. He did a very good job of pushing his own blogs, sites and companies (especially ClickBank). At times, each chapter seemed like a mix of bland ideas and infomercial stuff plugged in. Overall, the whole idea presented (How to make money and build a business based on internet) was good and some of the ideas and resources given could prove to be helpful but I expected better quality and less self-serving selling. Julian Sinisterra, Miami

This book is truly a fountain of ideas for making money online — but trying to read it is akin to the experience of trying to drink from a gushing fountain. The sheer amount of content is hard to wade through (not to continue the watery metaphor, but there it is). Too much of the book comes off like an endless PowerPoint presentation. The dozens of numbered lists are clearly meant to help present information in an easy-to-digest way, but they are simply too numerous and serve to fragment rather than clarify too much of the content. I mean, 64 ways to optimize a website? Surely there was another way to organize and present this information.

Amid the long laundry lists of various aspects of Internet money-making schemes are a myriad of suggestions that are casually tossed off with very little explanation to help newcomers better understand how to implement them. And too many pages are spent on angles (such as generic domain names) that even Ostrofsky admits are pretty much out of the reach of mere mortals who don’t have millions to spend or are late to the party.

The book often reminded me of that old Steve Martin routine about how to make a million dollars and not pay taxes: “First, make a million dollars. Then, don’t pay your taxes!” Take, for example, Ostrofsky’s suggestions to, hey, write an ebook! Or start producing and posting videos! Easy to say, but not necessarily easy to do. And does the world really need more mediocre, amateurish online content?

In addition, some of the tips sound downright dangerous unless you really know what you’re doing or already have a good head for business, a high tolerance for risk, an understanding of the market for a particular product or service, or all three. Surely there are some shark-infested waters in this world for people who don’t really understand it, and Ostrofsky doesn’t spend much time orienting the reader to avoid the pitfalls.

Some of the case studies are fascinating but, in general, they are awfully sketchy. More detailed case studies and a pruning of the main content would have helped to focus the book.

That said, I did glean a few fascinating insights into the various ways to make money online. For example, I’m still agog that one can insert oneself into the Amazon enterprise and other people’s intellectual property simply by becoming an affiliate and buying a domain name that may help promote a product for sale on Amazon. And Ostrofsky’s enthusiastic reassurances that there is still plenty of money to be made in them thar hills is inspiring. In fact, I’m feeling emboldened enough to think about trying a few of his techniques myself. So, all told, I’d say the book is worth a scan to see what pops out at you as possibilities that might be a good fit for your temperament and talents, if not a word-for-word read. Barbara Pierce, Miami

"Generous." That's the first word I thought of when I finished Ostrofsky's book. It seems like everything he's ever learned and profited from, he's more than eager to share. I'm amazed how much great information he was able to pack into a book that could serve as a primer for the entire Internet phenomenon. At first, I thought the book would primarily focus on the importance of key words, the psychology of domain names, etc., and while it does cover these topics in great detail, there is so much more substance and in-depth analysis of the potential market for income producing ideas. The author's enthusiasm nearly leaps off the page and it sometimes feels like you're sitting across from him as he generates one idea after another for leveraging the power of using the Internet to make money. Every idea he comes up with isn't some pipe dream, either. Not only does he throw idea after idea out there, but he explains precisely how to go about implementing them, one step at a time and with specific referrals to people who could help the reader achieve real success.

Along with the author's enthusiasm, what I like best about the book are the list of resources, the explanation and use of Quick Response (QR) codes, and the case studies. I'm a sucker for case studies. It's great to read an explanation about the potential for phone apps, but a real thrill to read a case study about a guy who made a mint by creating an app that makes the face of the iPhone look like a fogged-up bathroom mirror. [Note: While I can appreciate the whimsy and outrageous success of that app, the lack of practicality makes this reader a little crazy!]

Another thing I loved was the "insider" atmosphere Ostrofsky created and all the freebies included in the book. I haven't downloaded any of the free content, but knowing that it's there made me feel like I got a little extra with the purchase of the book. The only thing I didn't like was my own feeling of overwhelm as I realized how much catching up I have to do. I know I'll be using this book as a reference for a long time to come. Kathy Doran, Miami Beach

Too much information to absorb in a single read. Written in fast-paced style, it helps to slow it down and perhaps read it twice. With all the QR codes, it’s the most interactive book I’ve read. Zac Hall, Miami

Almost everyone has heard of or has used the Internet. If you haven't you must have lived under a rock for the past five years, (using a line from a TV advertisement).

This book explains the Internet and how to use it and possibly make money on the Internet. This book is not an easy read but well worth reading for all the information that it contains. If you plan to start a business or use the Internet for your marketing, this book can be used as a reference.

The author, Marc Ostrofsky has used his experience, his successes, and knowledge to help us navigate the Internet more efficiently. So if you are thinking about or already using the Internet, owning this book is a must. You should own it because the book has many details about how to use the internet that you probably will have to refer to it from time to time. Gordon Ettie, Miami

Our latest book selection was wonderful. I had the pleasure of going into a lot of the sites that were suggested and it opened my eyes to a lot of possibilities.

I was under the impression that buying a domain name was more expensive than some of the reported websites that I went into. I also found out that there are other opportunities along with the purchase of your domain name that will help you get started with advertising, registration and domain name suggestions.

This book shows you how to make money with using other sites that generate revenue for you. It is like being tagged on Facebook, once your site is tagged you generate revenue depending on the type of site you have not to mention the agreement you make with the other site. The whole idea is to generate a site with a domain name that will generate hits for viewing. The more hits you get the more money you make. You also want to create a site that is business or services oriented. Your business or service has to have a domain name associated with what you offer in order for people to visit. You make money with advertising on your site something like bill boards but you really have to be computer literate in order make your site profitable.

The coupons that you’re given through the writer’s site are to help you start. I like how he shows you the ideas that people come up with to begin their business. He suggested that we pay attention to the trends and he is correct. There are so many coupon saver sites today, why because of today’s economy. They all have something to offer.

Everyone wants something different so you have to attract as many people as you can. The idea that appeals the most is you create a site for your business or service. You purchase a domain name for that site. You do not have to pay rent for a building, hire people or offer insurance. You are able to do it all with your site and hope it pays for itself at the same time generate revenue for you. If you get customers that want your business or service, they begin to pay for what your site offers. The idea is a win-win situation. Patricia Garcia, Miami

Marc definitely is a pioneer of the Internet and his business foresight has lead to his success. Even though I haven't created a business opportunity or developed a money making opportunity off the Internet, I did become inspired by how he described the many different business opportunities that exist utilizing the Internet. But where I became most entertained was through the websites that save everyone money. I already checked out filterreplace.com which alleviates an annoying quarterly chore.

I can't say the book was a riveting novel but rather a "how to" on making money off the internet. Even though the list format was a little much for my ADD, I did find the real life stories riveting. I will definitely put this book in my reference section and refer to it in the future. Greg Alexander, Sunny Isles, Florida

Computer novice or computer savvy, it matters not! Get Rich Click! is an education in and of itself!

It seems to be a very valuable source of information loaded with quality and quantity as well.
It is directed toward creative marketing and earning money even without an inventory! For the most part, the information Ostrofsky presents is clear and concise.

Whether you use a computer, iPhone, iPad or cell phone, if you are creative and follow the guidelines given to protect yourself from breaking the rules which may result in some unclear penalties, continuously up grading your website seems to be one key to success in earning money without any investment but your time and energy.

Monetary investment is not necessarily needed. Get Rich Click! is a time consuming read but may well be worth every minute invested! Margot Byrnes, Miami

A must-read for anyone interested in making money at the computer. The author, who is reputed to have made several fortunes on the internet, is bursting with information which he pours into this short work. He delivers succinct "how-to" and "where to" data and links. Based on the author's credentials I expected a lot from this book; it delivered more than that. Dave Goodwin, Miami Beach

It was a very interesting read that demanded focus and the ability to take good notes. It was not a book that you casually read. I learned a lot about the money making potential of the internet and the need for my own business to be more in tune to what the internet can offer us. I strongly agree that every business should read this book to unlock new ways to prosper via the internet. It was an excellent starting point for anyone who wants to branch out into this new media. Paul Bartoletti. Scanton Pa.

While "Get Rich Click" conjures up the idea of getting rich quick on the internet, it is much more. It is a guidebook for generating money using the internet. Being a skeptic of anything that promises quick or easy returns, I was won over by Ostrofsky's attention to detail and abundance of information.

It is also a great motivational book for anyone who has considered running an internet business. I especially liked when he talked about the internet being in its infancy. We all know some of the get-rich-quick stories, such as people who sold domain names for fantastic sums, and we may feel we missed the boat. But it is true that the internet is just getting started, just getting defined and business and marketing history is being made every day.

A cursory read of the book will give someone with basic knowledge of the internet an in-depth explanation of how online marketing works. In one chapter, he describes companies that sell actual products while another chapter identifies 30 different ways to make money by providing leads or advertising for other companies. For the more tech-savvy, Ostrofsky goes on to provide guidelines for establishing profitable websites, everything from the importance of the domain name to using our daily social networking to increase profitability. He even explains various methods of collecting payments.

Finally, if you are a serious internet entrepreneur, this book will continue on as a reference book and as an excellent foundation for your endeavors. If you are just looking to get rich quick, this is too detailed and thoughtful a book for you. Debbie Kowalsky, Hollywood

Extraordinary content particularly for some entrepreneurial Baby Boomers who are entering a "false retirement' stage, since they have to continue working until they die. The book is truly a modern encyclopedia on how to, not only survive, but strive in this rapidly changing and crazy world.
Ariel Gonzalez-Medel, Palmetto Bay

While I was skeptical at first that the book was little more than an infomercial to sucker me in to buying a seminar or other “opportunities”, I instead found it to really be an extremely easy to read, step-by-step guide on how to get started with an online presence. Ostrofsky’s use of lists, bullet points and cool techie “tags” at the end of the chapters to offer more details on specific topics made the book a quick read and, even more importantly, easy to reference since key points are called out in bold type.

While the basis of everything the author outlines rests on creativity and being first to market, the principles outlined provide real tools to small businesses trying to compete for awareness and one-on-one customer contact.

Equally exciting, I found the book a treasure trove of quick tactics that I can ask our creative agency to execute to improve my company’s rankings for search engine optimization.

Even if you have no real interest in the internet world nor want to be the next Facebook pioneer, the book actually offers money saving tips for everything from lowering your phone bills to where to log on to find low cost freelance help.

If, according to Ostrofsky, “Knowledge is the currency of the information age,” than I suggest all of you spend a few bucks to pick up this book. Kim Miller, Pembroke Pines

What an exhaustive detailed dictionary and Wikipedia of how to harness creativity and process it through internet resources to invent, create, and maintain a business in the 21 century. A must read for entrepreneurs, the unemployed and the seasoned small business operator who wants to get to the next level. If only partially utilized, it is worth the cost of the book. Marvin Stein, Coral Springs

Former Vice President Al Gore confused a lot of people when back in 1992 he appeared to claim authorship of the Internet for ordinary people and referred to it as the “Information Super highway” of the telecommunications world. It was during that period of time that businessmen and some Government officials for the first time started to show an “email address” on their business cards.

Since then and still today, the majority of the people failed to realize that apart from the incredibly fast and efficient point-to-point communications network that shrunk the world and morphed the telephone into the most portable data processing device, the Internet could also serve as an infinite service and business platform available only to those who comprehend it well enough to take full advantage of its nuances.

For the other few, the Internet insiders, an unlimited new world of opportunities opened up offering new and surprising ways to earn and collect income, most of the times instantaneously, taking advantage of a type of business transaction that takes place without physical exchanges, that requires no inventories or warehouses, that generates instant invoices as the payment is already collected, without ever turning into “aging receivables”.

The same wide range of opportunities surged for services which became so global in scope that people now hires “virtual assistants” or “staff” in India, Europe or China for work in New York or Florida, and the small corner print shop that handled stationary and business cards in the past, now delivers from some location in China, Spain or Buenos Aires where prices and quality are more competitive.

And another huge activity grouped under “Social Media” exploded and flooded the business sector with yet many more opportunities to provide services, bring about social and political change, and use Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and many others to generate “instant income” thus making money on the Internet.

However, before Marc Ostrofsky sat down to analyze his success and come up with the recipe that took him there, there was no single tool or Sextant to help the traveler on this Superhighway in order to find out first where he was, then where to go next and how to and how fast to get there.

The book Marc Ostrofsky wrote covers everything. Starts by telling the reader that he needs to know what he does not know about the Internet. Then suggests to learn, and tells what and where, and provides an enormous wealth of source information illustrated with case studies, examples and tips. All that, is carefully organized in a guide structure that shows business common sense in every chapter and their sequence. The best gold nuggets of advice hit the reader between the eyes: “Telecom+Computers+Internet+Consumer Electronics=Unlimited Opportunities” “Pay attention to trends,” ”My Secrets…” etc. He is also generous sharing experiences in order to avoid what could be costly pitfalls for the uninitiated.

Generally I do not trust the “How To …..” publications of any kind. I believe the only ones who truly benefit from these books are the publishers. However my reading of Get Rich CLICK left me convinced that we now have at our reach a most effective “Internet User’s Manual” which could be used advantageously to find how to make money. Waste no time! It’s a fast road. Rene M. Valverde, Aventura

Our latest book selection was wonderful. I had the pleasure of going into a lot of the sites that were suggested and it opened my eyes to a lot of possibilities.

This book shows you how to make money with using other sites that generate revenue for you. It is like being tagged on Facebook; once your site is tagged you generate revenue depending on the type of site you have not to mention the agreement you make with the other site. The whole idea is to generate a site with a domain name that will generate hits for viewing. The more hits you get the more money you make. You also want to create a site that is business or services oriented.

Your business or service has to have a domain name associated with what you offer in order for people to visit. You make money with advertising on your site something like bill boards but you really have to be computer literate in order make your site profitable.

The coupons that you’re given through the writer’s site are to help you start. I like how he shows you the ideas that people come up with to begin their business. He suggested that we pay attention to the trends and he is correct. There are so many coupon saver sites today. Why? Because of today’s economy. They all have something to offer.

If you get customers that want your business or service, they begin to pay for what your site offers. The idea is a win-win situation. Patricia Garcia, Miami

Hollywood

Biz Books Club

Join The Club

Please Contribute to The Club

About

Pages

Labels

Archive

Credibility Video

Thursday, August 18, 2011

GET RICH CLICK Review

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Next Book to Review: Credibility

Sunday, July 24, 2011

GET RICH CLICK: Club Reviews

Friday, July 22, 2011

Author Marc Ostrosky on The View

Monday, June 13, 2011

The View

Thursday, June 9, 2011

You're invited: Sign up for the Biz Books Club

Sunday, June 5, 2011