[fecak]

Your experience with internal recruiters vs external is not unique, and it's the recruiting model that is at fault. Internal recruiters aren't going to be too salesy - they have a monopoly (not always) on the job requirements at their company, and they aren't being paid commission - whether you take the job or not may impact a bonus or performance review, but it isn't going to get them a car.

The contingency recruiter, particularly one who is independent and not working for a big firm, wants you to take the job because it means a new car.

This is an important thing to understand. Cashiers at grocery stores don't pressure you into buying more items, because what you buy has no discernible impact on them. Car salesmen, or realtors, care quite a bit.

Until companies start changing the way they engage recruiters things won't change. Paying them less, but with some guaranteed up front money, is my answer.