I recently had an "interview" in which it was pretty clear after a while that the interviewer was just mining me for technical advice. I've had this before -- done this before, to be honest and I was wondering: How do you respond when it is pretty clear that the interviewer is just looking for a free consultation in the guise of an interview? Can you demur without shooting yourself in the foot? Is this considered "Okay"?

As usual, hours later, I felt like there was a point in the "interview" when I could have probably diverted the train of the conversation, but due to the "bait and switch" nature of this tactic, its always after the fact that I realize what is actually happening.

If there are any recruiters watching the message boards I would love to hear their opinions on the "consultation by interview" tactic. Of course, this interview was straight off Craig's list: if you have something more salient than "Don't use Craig's list, use recruiters, please share :D

I've definitely seen this tactic before. It's not as bad as the "RFP or fishing run" technique where someone gets their project designed for them for free. ;)

I have as well... Smart way to get intel if you aren't on the receiving end.