I recently submitted a sample resume to over 500 open positions across platforms like LinkedIn, ZipRecruiter, and Indeed. As a 1099 contractor, I'm currently employed but looking for new contracts for when my current one ends. I tailored my resume for various roles in IT Support, Desktop Support, Technician, and Server Support, primarily using the 'Easy Apply' or '1 Click Apply' options. In just a few days, I was contacted by 53 different recruiters via email, phone, and text, using a secondary phone number and a new email. While my experience has been mostly positive, I encountered several issues: 1. The recruiters seemed to use the same script, asking repetitive questions and often ending calls with requests to confirm via email. 2. Many recruiters altered my resume significantly, adding skills and experiences I don't have, and changing my job history to fit the roles they were recruiting for. They also modified my cover letters and removed personal information. 3. The interviews I attended felt set up to fail. I didn’t receive copies of the altered resumes, which led to confusion during interviews when I was questioned about certifications and experiences that were fabricated. I had eight interviews in one day, and they all referenced '8 years of engineering experience' that I simply do not possess. 4. Some recruiters misrepresented my salary expectations to potential employers, suggesting I would accept lower pay than I deserve, given my 8-10 years of experience in IT, including five years in government desktop support. 5. Many of the positions required extensive travel—500-700 miles a week with unpaid drive time—which is not something I'm willing to do. 6. I found some recruiters encouraging dishonesty, which I believe can lead to disastrous outcomes. Overall, I recommend being your own recruiter if possible. It's better to work with a reputable contracting firm that won't misrepresent your qualifications. If you do get a job through a recruiter who altered your resume, make sure to mention this and provide your original resume, as starting a professional relationship with honesty is crucial.