LOL. I used to wonder to myself why all of these recruiters would call me, I would get interview opportunities, go through the first round for multiple hours only to never get a call back.I hope they get bodied execution style.
One dead giveaway is when they never ask or bring up Salary in the initial interview process as far as what you currently make if you have a job or what you were paid previously.
Another is when the personnel or HR person does not meet with you upon the initial interview. If you don't meet with them or salary isn't initially brought up then chances are they are wasting your time.
My advice to those out there job hunting would be to network. Get out there and talk to people. Your network is your best asset. Also be clear and concise with recruiters about what you want so they dont have you running around all over the place.
I usually come prepared with a list of questions about the job primarily based off my own research. I then ask questions of how I would fit in using specific scenarios specific to my skill set. If they can't answer those questions directly then I know it's game.
Lastly, if you are in CA and you are black and your hiring manager is a black woman, as a man, you may as well walk straight out the door because you are NOT going to get hired by her. No disrespect but sisters are some of the most insecure, c00nish creatures at the exec levels.