If it was a strategy like "we are looking for really driven people when we hire journalists, this is why we usually track events that show a strong drive for example A:... B: The applicant sends a thank you note even when they don't have our email address, C:..."

It would really be a different situation. But this is not about looking for a specific trait which is tied to a job.

Unfortunately all that they achieve with this strategy is locking out people who are "not like us". It all boils down to different cultures different rules, in Germany sending a thank you note to a business contact over a non disclosed communication channel would be perceived as very unprofessional or creepy.

It's the step right before adding your business contacts on facebook uninvited... So if your goal is to avoid hiring German people, the strategy is probably great.

(Taking the German example here because we Germans are very sensitive with data and privacy. The rule could also be exchanged for any other different no hire rule, overall what you achieve with such rules, is simply locking out a group of people, but those are people who could help your business succeed.)