it works really well. the interviews generally won't be a waste of time, though I've definitely been offered down-leveled roles sometimes. the key is that you

it works really well. the interviews generally won't be a waste of time, though I've definitely been offered down-leveled roles sometimes. the key is that you want the recruiter to say, firmly, that your ask is within their range. ANYTHING ELSE ("we can make that up in equity", "we're willing to do that for the right candidate", "we can't guarantee that, but our benefits package is stellar", "i'm not sure, but let's connect anyway?") is a sell and should be approached carefully.