5 Job Search Tactics to Stop Immediately

You know the drill: Find any job you are somewhat qualified for, apply for it, talk to the right people, and hopefully you get the coveted job interview. If you have been doing this for weeks or months on end without results, perhaps you need to change job search tactics. Work smarter, not harder, to find a job that is fulfilling and rewarding.

Mashable expounds on five job search tactics to stop immediately if you want to land the job you want. The overriding principle to remember is that this process does not entail doing things in the fastest manner possible. Find a better position in less time by eschewing these tactics.

1) Do not completely rely on submissions through online sources. Anyone can find a job posting on the Internet, fill out some information, post a resume and then get thrown into the pile of dozens of candidates. Instead, switch job search tactics and add the step of finding a viable person at the company to make an introduction. Doing so gets your name mentioned to the HR manager, which means that you have a name associated with a voice instead of some ephemeral, electronic font on the screen.

2) Combine online and offline job search skills by attending job fairs and networking events, calling companies to ask if they have positions available, asking people within your network if their company is hiring, and submitting applications and resumes in person. All of these things make you more personable, professional and likable.

3) Avoid applying for jobs that do not fit your qualifications. If your experience lies in sales, don't apply for a job as a shift manager at a factory. Chances are you will not get the interview, because your work experience does not fit the position. Change job search tactics to narrow your choices to ones you actually qualify for instead of reaching out to any firm with openings.

Get rid of the phrase, "I'm a fast learner," with respect to jobs that require experience. Your future boss expects you to know some things about the position already as opposed to having to teach you how to do things. "I'm a fast learner" implies that you lack what it takes.

4) Do not rely on a 10-second name drop to get you anywhere. Just because you approach the HR assistant about a job reference, that does not mean that person can vouch for your job skills or work ethic. Rather, find a person and build a relationship before asking about job openings. This becomes especially important when you find a company you particularly love. Discover someone on LinkedIn with similar interests or background, and start talking.

5) Under no circumstances should you torment, annoy or pester the HR department with follow-up phone calls after the interview. Alter your job search tactics and include one phone call with a supplementary email. Keep both communications short, gracious and to the point.

Landing your ideal position may be about altering your job search tactics rather than making a company fit into your mold. Instead of trying to slam a square peg into a round hole, discover the right fit for you and save yourself tons of aggravation later.

Photo courtesy of Dean Meyers at Flickr.com