I personally went to 2 different regionals chasing the "quick upgrade"; one in particular at a smaller airline with bases I liked, and new planes coming on property. Sounds a lot like the advice a lot of you folks are giving, right? Now I'm at the very bottom of the FO list on reserve about to get "Comaired". Looking back I wish I chose a regional that had:
1. A base I live in or would like to live in
2. Moderate movement/stability
3. A Decent contract ($ and QOL)
Unfortunately times have changed since 8 years ago when I started this endeavor (pun intended) and the regionals that had the aforementioned qualities will be shrinking or also getting "Comaired". In the end it's simply luck and timing, my friends.