Comment by AdieuToLogic

> Just like athletes and actors, I think the industry might be better off if there were reputable agents with a portfolio of people they represent ...

This is what recruiters in quality staffing firms do. Granted, there are many staffing firms which are worthless body-shops. But those are not reputable. :-)

> ... and something the equivalent of a casting director at companies instead of the current "cram leetcode" mode of evaluation.

The equivalent has traditionally been hiring managers who work with approved staffing companies, both to ensure those companies provide value as well as to foster an understanding of the people/skills needed by the organizations.

Wise organizations use multiple staffing firms and perform internal audits in order to minimize complacency/corruption.