And we frequently hire people at entry level positions, so this might apply. When looking at applications I look for red flags: very short job turn over rates, unexplained gaps in employment (generally of a medium length because short time gaps are reasonable and long time gaps generally suggest life events such as a birth, move, or marriage), obvious spelling and grammar mistakes, unprofessional email addresses given in contact info, etc.
I also look for good signs such as: community service work, military honorable discharge, signs that the resume was tailored to the job and not just a carbon copy, awards or merits won, etc.
To be clear, all of these factors help paint a picture of who the person could be, not who they necessarily are. If I'm going to take the time out of my (very) busy day to interview someone, I better see a lot of potential.
If you get an interview, then you have to wow me. You need to know what I'm looking for and how you fit into that job. Key factors I'm looking for in the service industry are: friendliness, reliability, willingness to learn, teamwork, and positive attitude. In the interview, the worst thing you can be is generic. I will hire someone who gives thoughtful answers over someone who gives standard answers every time. Because of time constraints, I would much rather hire the first person I interview than interview a series of people. If you get a call for an entry level position, I will hire you unless you bomb the interview. I can't stress enough how little time I actually have during my day, to sit down with someone for 15-20 minutes is a luxury. Give concise, confident answers, and know what you're talking about.
Hope that helps a little.
EDIT TO ADD: I rarely actually call references. The fact that they're there add a slight bit of credibility. Not having them are not a deal-breaker. Quite honestly, I work more than 50hrs a week and if I have even 15 minutes a day to look at resumes (in times where I desperately need positions filled) that's a lot. Oddly enough, calling and inquiring about a position will also rarely improve chances. I'm generally so busy that having to take the call is frustrating (and I give the same generic response that I'm "looking into all resumes and I'll call you back if interested" to everyone, and probably don't have time to write down your name). One thing that does make an impact is handing in an application in person (instead of email). If I can attach a resume to a presentable, well-mannered, friendly face, I'm much more likely to schedule an interview (providing there are no glaring red flags in the resume).
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