Discussion on: Are There Good Recruiters?

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Replies for: Sure, but not a lot. Most of the better ones end up working in the HR departments of big companies or head hunting more senior people, which is whe...

Other red flags:

Attempts to force you to commit to pursuing multiple job opportunities simultaneously. I've had recruiters offer me an interview slot before I even had a chance to ask questions about the workplace.
Obsession with years of experience: Will ask you (often in concerned, subdued tone of voice) about your years of experience with every single technology on your resume. Years don't matter or prove anything!
Insists on references right from the get-go. The job opportunity was just the opening act. They really just want to get your manager's number so they can bombard him or her with calls and spam your entire network.
If they spell my name wrong (lots of people insist on calling me Simon for some reason), you get deleted, end of story.
If they try to tell you your salary demands are unreasonable, politely tell them to go to hell. Know what you're worth and don't let them talk you down just so you can get a quick payout.
Refusal to reveal client details. I need to know so I can ensure I haven't already applied there, which makes both of us look bad. They insist I tell them every job I have applied for, and depending on my mood, I will either make up a bunch of companies or tell them that is none of their business whatsoever.