If you are in IT, that's the way it is when you deal with consulting companies. They will act all happy about hiring you, but until they have a slot/contract that you might be able to fill, they won't stay in contact with you. Basically, they are pimping you out. Once they find a client who needs your skillset, they'll set you up with an interview. Then if you get the job, you get "hired" on (either as W2 or 1099) and then you work your contract. You might only see $50 an hour, but your pimp (consultant firm) really bills you out as $100 an hour.
So, if you are in IT, don't be discouraged, that's just how it is in this industry. What is your background?