Working with a recruiter can be the most important decision you make in your career.  As such, careful thought and planning must be taken to ensure you select the right firm and right recruiter to represent your interests in the marketplace.   Here are a few helpful tips:

1. Conduct research on the internet or ask your colleagues to help identify search firms who specialize in your industry and area of expertise.
2. Once 3 -4 have been identified, take the time to call each and ask several basic questions such as, do they specialize in your industry, which companies they represent, how they help manage the interview process, do they have exclusives with the hiring company, etc.
3. Meet in person with the top 2 to help give you a feel for their professionalism, industry knowledge and perhaps most importantly, how they'll represent you in the marketplace!
4. Be upfront and honest with the recruiters you select and let them know what you will consider and what you won't
5. Be realistic with your salary and career expectations.   Remember, if more money is your only motivator, consider asking for a raise and staying where you are currently employed.
6. Any good recruiter will want to meet you in person and will know all of the details of the company, division, position, hiring manager background, etc.  Any good recruiter will also clearly explain the interview and selection process, will conduct a detailed technical interview, will ask you for references and will tell you the name of the company whom they are representing.