[gregjor]

You have to look at who pays recruiters. They optimize their business for quickly filling open jobs. They work on commission (or salary plus commission) so they try to put as many candidates who look good in front of hiring managers.

I'm not aware of reputable recruiters who represent people looking for full-time employment. You would have to pay for that service if you can find it.

I freelance through an agency, 10X Management. They represent freelancers as talent agents (the founders come from a sports and entertainment talent agent background).

The same founders have a salary/perks negotiation agency, 10X Ascend. You might want to look into that, though I don't believe they offer full recruitment/placement services.