Hey Gary,
That's alot of asking... ;-)
I'm a wannabe myself and about to get my FAA PPL this summer. Currently, I'm an Aero Eng student. I'm doing it just in case it won't work out with a flying career as a professional. Plus, I think it'll be an additional qualification worth mentioning in my CV, which will hopefully make me stick out.
Anyway, all I know is that you need to get an MCC besides your CPL/IR Multi. It'll increase your chances of getting a job with an airline.
It usually takes up to 18 months for either completing an integrated or modular course. If you don't get an airline job right away after you finish your training you may be well advised to consider working as an instructor or in any other position that gives you hours. I'd say currently you'd need from 600 - 1000 PiC in order to be considered for an interview.
Do yourself a favour and please forget about the idea of buying a typerating. If you have too much cash left over--which I doubt, but if, please get in touch with me and I'll let you know my bank details--get a typerating. I for one, never ever would! I'm going to spend enough funds on my flight training and at one point there's got to be an end to it! Only if you and other wannabes agree on following ripp-off practices as the like of Ryanair, working conditions in this industry will deteriorate even more.
To get an idea of the starting salaries at Ryanair, just visit their website. You shall find it under 'careers'.
Generally, I can tell you to get a foot in the door is lots of hours, especially as much Multi as possible, good connections to a person within the operation you want to join and, of course, a great deal of luck to be at the right place at the right time!
Good luck!