Reference checks are tylclaipy done after an interview not before, so that's not the problem.Have you been at your current job only a very short time? If you've only been there a couple of months (or anything less than a year or two really), and are already looking for a new job that is a real warning sign to potential employers that you may do the same thing to them after a couple of months. Other than that, make sure you're well dressed when you drop off your application or resume, and have at least one other person who has a really keen eye for detail look it over before you do. I've tossed a number of applications when working retail for too many spelling mistakes, forgetting to sign the application, filling it out in pencil, etc. As a professional now I've tossed even more resumes for horrible spelling and grammar or just being a really lack-luster resume.