I'll make a comment as it relates to my current professional (non-piloting) experience. I know that hours are important when it comes to "landing" airline jobs (no pun intended)... but in addition to hours, it comes down to how you presented yourself during the interview - and not just the interview - but how you carried yourself throughout the day - exams, sim eval, etc. Does your skill-base AND personality/character match what the company is looking for?

I have no idea what Mesaba looks for in regards to character - but I do know they continue to consider lower time pilots in addition to those that meet and exceed minimums.

In my current profession, we definitely look to see if candidates meet posted criteria that relates to the job position - but during an interview, I (and others that I work with) can certainly tell whether or not an individual will make a good fit for the organization.

Don't take this the wrong way - especially since I have no idea how everyone interviewed here - but I would certainly keep that in mind as something that may or may not have been considered in the process.