I have never done this song and dance. I&#x27;ve been working professionally as a software developer for 20 years and my M.O. Is to talk to reputable recruiters, get an idea what the salary ranges are for my skill set, send my resume to the recruiter and tell them to send me prospects that meet my qualifications and that can meet my salary demands.<p>Then I just sit back, look over the job reqs that they send me and then I decide whether I want to be submitted.<p>Within two to three weeks, usually I have competing offers. I&#x27;ve never failed a phone screen with an employer and I&#x27;ve only twice haven&#x27;t gotten an offer.<p>Luckily my first job I got was based on an internship. I graduated from a Podunk state college and I&#x27;ve been able to demand a competitive salary after my first three year job stint.