> On the other hand, because of commission, it is in the recruiter's interest to get you as much money as possible so you might get a better offer via them than

> On the other hand, because of commission, it is in the recruiter's interest to get you as much money as possible so you might get a better offer via them than you would if you went direct. It's in their interest, yes - but it's not worth more than closing a deal quickly. They generally make more money by seating 3 hires at new companies for 100k than they do seating 1 hire for 300k. Because of the downside risk of possibly losing a deal, and further - because they're paid over time as an employee remains with a company, it's much more beneficial to place many people quickly than it is to place a few people for more money.