ASK HN: Going around a tech recruiter
goofygrin: Early in my career I used headhunters to find a job simply because they either had a connection in the company and could circumvent some processing or because they were on "approved vendor" lists (bigger companies).10+ years later, whenever I need work, I never call a recruiter.  My first calls/emails/IMs are to my network.  They are infinitely more valuable than any headhunter.At the last startup I worked at, we used both direct hire and firms.  I will tell you that there was a LOT more flexibility when going direct.  I mean more pay, bonuses, vacation, etc.  A recruiter makes a % of your salary.  So if the company can pay up to 100k, and the recruiter will get 10% (usually it's more like 20+%) then how much do you think they will be able to pay you?  I bet they won't offer more than 91k.  If you'd come direct you'd've had more leverage to get that $9k as a bonus or straight salary.That said, I think that you might be too late in the process...