4 Alternative Job Search Tactics

It's tough for job seekers these days. They not only have to be the best and the brightest, but they also have to have things like a positive online presence, which many recruiters are looking for while trying to find talent.

With more job seekers using the same tactics, is it possible that it's even more difficult to be present in our online world? Perhaps.

So, here are four alternative tactics you could use (on top of the traditional methods) to stand out among other job seekers online:

QR Codes. QR (or quick response) codes are those small, square barcodes you see anywhere from advertisements, to billboards, to product labels. But, can a QR code help you get noticed, and more importantly, get your foot in the door? If you use it right'"absolutely.

For example, Vizibility , the first SearchMe Button for Google, actually allows users to customize their top five Google search results into a free and permanent SearchMe link, which can be placed on most online or offline materials. These search results can also be placed in your own QR code . Further, with a Vizibility QR code, you don't have to change your barcode if you change up your search results, unlike other services. Everything is updated automatically so you don't have to worry about going back and adjusting your platforms and materials.

Think about it: when you're trying to get noticed by at employer at industry meetings, they can easily scan your QR code from your business card and learn all you want them to know in a snap. Can it get any easier?

Video. Let's face it; video is certainly more interesting than words on a page. So, why not take this concept and apply it to your job search? Think about creating a video that reflects what kind of candidate you are, especially if you believe people in your industry will be impressed by it.

For example, you could have a video resume in addition to your online or offline one. Think about including examples of your work history, walking the employer through your accomplishments, or having past managers and colleagues speak of your positive contributions. That way, you'll not only get your point across, but you'll do so in an original way.

Personal website. These days, you probably need a personal website in any industry if you want to stand out. Why? Well, since more employers are looking up candidates online as a sort of pre-background check, it pays to actually take control of your name and your image. A personal website can help you do that. Make yours different by including consistent blog updates, hosting your resume and cover letter, testimonials, links to your other materials, five-year plans, an explanation of the kind of candidate you are, and more. The more content you have out there that's attached to your name, the better chances you'll have to stand out.

Alternative social networking platforms. It's no surprise that social networking may be the new way to get your foot in the door or even land a job. Apart from the traditional ones like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, think about joining Google+, Tumblr, StumbleUpon, Quora, or other niche networks. Just like the previous tactic, your thought leadership will probably increase based on the amount of positive content you provide. Just make sure you keep up with them; there's nothing worse than profiles with stale content or little engagement.

What kinds of alternative job search tactics do you use?