[hazza1]

Not sure in which field your friend works but I'd say things are no longer like this, most medium to large firm resent paying for agents so put their jobs up on their websites and encourage applicants.

Pretty much go to any major firms homepage and they'll have a list of open positions that you can apply directly for.

Personally I've never had an issue with using recruiters and have used them in conjunction with applying myself. I prefer the buffer of using them but you can't beat your own research.

[gallinaponedora]

Thanks for the advice, she is a web dev. She might have had problem because she is a foreigner, maybe just bad luck... no idea.