Congrats on the 500 hour mark. For me, 500 was a huge milestone since I had no regular, full time job at the time. It separates you from the fresh CFIs and means you probably have over 200 hours as an instructor. That means are you starting to be marketable as a CFI to other places. While it means you cant immediately hop into an RJ, other flying jobs are starting to open up now. Maybe a 135 operation, some banner towing, jumper dumper, or a better CFI gig.

I am approaching the 1000 hour mark but not with as much anticipation as the 500 hour mark. To me, 500 hour is what separated the "Wet Commercials" and the slightly more experienced pilots. The road is still long and difficult ahead, but you now have some marketing power to you. Someone at HR who was told "No one under 500" will at least give your resume a closer look now.

Keep up the good work and remember: Network, network, network!