ravenx
We specify absolute minima of 2000hrs total with 1500hrs P1 of which 500hrs VMC low level, 500hrs twin; most operators will have very similar requirements. What seems to be becoming apparent is that as the numbers of available experienced pilots reduces, there seems to be a push from the contracting companies to persuade the clients to accept slightly lower experience levels. The problem with this is establishing just how far down the experience ladder one can go; breadth and variety are just as important as quantity but one needs an outstanding applicant to go beyond a certain level.
Yes, it is a catch-22; there is no substitute for going out and doing your time in as many roles as you can and without belittling emergency services work remember that it is a relatively small niche in the bigger aviation world. Not everyone takes to it; lots and lots of time spent just waiting.