[sosuke]

Just a side not, whether you're targeting people with projects or not. The opening phrase recruiters use of "are you looking for a job" or "are you interested in a position" especially when they say they've done background work is all wrong. If I says yes to either of those I've lost the power position. Recruiters should come with reasons why you should join that position, why you should leave etc.

[fecak]

By being the one approached by the recruiter, and not approaching the recruiter yourself, you are in the power position by default. You are being pursued and coveted, and that doesn't change if you admit to being open to a change of job.

[DubiousPusher]

I never want to work for a company that gives a crap about who has the "power position." There's companies I'm interested in and companies that are interested in me. I have an idea of what they can afford and I know what I need. I set a number there and if they can't pay it I can't accept.

If a recruiter's goal is to shave off $5,000 or $10,000 from your ask then they are wasting time because they could likely just as easily find someone who can fill the position at that compensation level.