I've used that same analogy a number of times over the years. When recruiters think that you can be placed into a job that they are contracted to fill, then they will disingenuously act like your best friend with their nonstop phone calls, texts, and emails. Once the opportunity dries up and you are no longer needed, then you will most likely never hear from them again. That should tell you all that you need to know about their motives. I respect the few recruiters that I have known over the years that will check in with you 1-2X a year just to see how things are going, in an effort to keep the relationship going. I've been placed into three jobs by professional recruiters over a 20 year span, and only once have I received any kind of thank you or token of appreciation, even though I made them a large sum of money. 99% of the time, recruiters aren't your friend, and you will need to accept that and keep them at arms-length and leverage the relationship to work in your favor. I've also learned to never allow them to lead you into a situation that is less than ideal for your career or personal life. They only care about the payday, and honestly don't care about how this potential job will affect you or your family.