It's crazy that we're living in the world of (almost) infinitely available information, big data etc. in 2022, but recruiters are still often secretive and shady.
For the general audience, let me drop some advice here that helped me during my job search:
- I knew what I was looking for (remote-friendly tech startups with their own product). I suggest you think this through as well.
- No Linkedin profile! Really, not needed unless want a corporate job. (Though I have a tiny and mostly neglected personal website which is appreciated by most companies.)
- Browse and actively follow dozens of job boards like the one in parent comment. DuckDuckGo is your friend. In a few days or weeks, you'll find out your 'taste' in terms of jobs that interest you and easily filter out mediocre offers.
- Draw boundaries and put your bar high. Know your desired compensation range and ask right away if not indicated. Reject take-home homework, leetcode interviews etc. if you don't like them. The interview process tells a lot about the company culture and you're also getting to know that company, not just the other way.
- Work on your resume! An investment that pays back like wonders. It also makes you much better prepared for interviews. There are some very useful books out there like "The Tech Resume Inside Out". Best $20 I've ever spent.
This way, you have total control in your job search and will have zero awkward HR phone calls. Though I admit that if you're looking for corporate jobs, a Linkedin profile might help. Also, if you're looking for MANGA etc. jobs, you'll need a totally different approach.
Shameless plug: I'm currently working for a no-code process automation tool startup called Process Street (https://www.process.st/), and we're hiring. :)