Recruiters vary enormously, and the difference is visible in the first conversation if you know what to listen for.

A good one will ask what you want next and push back when your answer is vague. A poor one will ask for your CV and start sending it out.

Questions worth asking first

Ask which companies they actually work with, how many people they placed in your field last year, and whether they will check with you before submitting your details anywhere. The last one matters most: having your CV arrive at the same employer from three agencies is a genuine problem, and it is entirely avoidable.

“If a recruiter will not tell you where they are sending you, that tells you what kind of recruiter they are.”

Sadie Kowalczyk

One recruiter who knows your field beats five who do not. You are not improving your odds by adding more names.