Although I’m in a technical field instead of banking, I’ve used recruiters both to find a job and to find employees. For the better part my experience has been good. However, one important thing.
When dealing with recruiters it’s important to keep in mind there are three sets of interests. The company hiring, yours and the recruiters. These three sets of interests are not the same, and you still need to look out for your own interests.
It’s really pretty much like buying a house with a real estate agent who is acting as both the sellers and the buyers agent. They are going to be more interested in getting the deal done than in getting you the best job for you, or the best salary or whatever your interests are.
With that warning firmly in mind, I still think recruiters are often worthwhile.
XBoxBoy
ps. If you do use a recruiter, be sure to explicitly discuss whether or not you are free to be looking via other methods. Some recruiters expect exclusivity, or don’t want you sending out your resume to lots of places. All that’s fine, just discuss it before you hook up with someone so you are clear about this.
