What do you look for in a recruiter?

[jasonoday]

My firm is conducting research to find out how insurance industry professionals come to choose their recruiting partner.

As an agency owner, branch manager, or general hiring manager - What attributes do you look for in a recruiter? Are you more interested in a long-term partner, or sometime who can assist in the short-term? How often do you use third-party recruiting services?

As a candidate - Would you rather work with a recruiter, or find your own opportunity? Do you prefer working with multiple recruiters, or just one? What information helps you make the decision?

Any and all feedback is welcome!