I have been using recruiters for the last 10 years and I agree that it is very easy to be taken advantage of if you don't know how to use them. First, go to th

I have been using recruiters for the last 10 years and I agree that it is very easy to be taken advantage of if you don't know how to use them. First, go to the recruiter who can give you the best deal. That means, don't say yes to the first person who calls you. Tell them you'll get back to them and then check out the boards for whoever else is in the running. Apply to them all, talk to them all, and then decide which one you are the most comfortable dealing with. Even if the company isn't mentioned, it's fairly easy to compare requirements. Second, know your price and be willing to walk away. The only reason you get screwed on rates is because you allow it. If you are not willing/able to walk away when your price isn't being met, then you have already lost. The competition for candidates is fierce so if you stand firm and you have the skills, you can often get the recruiter to submit you even if your price is above where the client is willing to go. Get your resume in front of the client and have them reconsider their price. If they still don't budge, walk away. Third, they are a necessary evil since many jobs can't be accessed (or with great difficulty) without them. This is not because the headhunter makes it difficult, it's because the hiring company doesn't want to deal with the recruitment process and give headhunters an exclusive on the job.