In the mid 1990s I had ATPL, 4400hrs total time including 2500 multi engine command and 700 f/o on a M/E turbine. I applied for a copilot job on a Metroliner which was advertised in Fridays Australian newspaper.
I didn't even get an interview, just a rejection letter stating that the job was for "ENDORSED" pilots only.
Not the best of times to be job hunting.