How do I get my resume past the application tracking system?

An applicant tracking system (ATS) scans your application document for terms that match those used in the job description/vacancy.

The majority of large corporations and international organizations use ATS as part of their hiring process.

With roughly 250 applications sent on average for a corporate job (and even more now with COVID-19) and on average 800 applications for a UN system role, you want to make sure your application documents stand out and find ways to increase your odds with the ATS!

What’s important for you to know:

If your CV/resume isn’t formatted properly for that specific role with keywords that match the job vacancy...you’re most likely NOT receiving a response.

In order to help you beat ATS, we are happy to provide UCCs 2020 best practices shared by our UN insiders:

Say you’re applying for a ‘programme (not program) management officer’ position, for example. If your CV uses the word ‘programme’ great. The system will more likely pass your application on to a real person. But if your current job title is listed as ‘program lead’ guess what happens...therefore, our advice is to always make sure, and where applicable, please use the matching job title.

In addition, you want to make sure:

• the information in all documents submitted is consistent; use similar headings, UN system “language” and keywords.

• you use the correct titles; a lot of people don’t know but ATS systems for example can’t recognize different titles.

• you use the right FONT! Your CV may get lost in the system because you used Times New Roman as some older applicant tracking systems have trouble reading serif fonts such as Times New Roman or Cambria. Use Sans serif fonts e.g. Calibri.

• you use the same tense as in the vacancy.

• your bullet points are perfectly round and avoid using arrows or other intricate symbols for your bullet points, as many ATS can’t translate them.

• you avoid pics, graphics or charts and other graphics.

• you always upload a .doc or .docx.

Finding the ‘right’ UN system organisation that matches your profile, education, skills and competencies, can lead to a fulfilling career where you get the chance to leave an important impact on the world. It means working with people from all over the world, getting to know different cultures and strengthening your multicultural team working skills while working on a good cause for human mankind and our planet.

UCC aims to share insights and advice to increase your chances of an international career and to address the lack of knowledge about how and where to apply for the various UN system organizations; UCC offers FREE blog articles, webinars and other services to enable you to access information about the different application, recruitment and selection processes as well as to help you get your UN system related questions answered.

UCC offers a 20-page illustrated guide with top tips on structuring and drafting a cover letter, common mistakes to avoid, key words to use and specific examples…


Published by previous UN system staff with first-hand experience of devising cover letters that worked!

Learn by watching?

Watch UCC’s 60min ‘cover letter’ on demand webinar available for download HERE where UN insiders explain how to read a UN vacancy to ensure the UN job notice is the right fit for your experience and background as well as to explain which parts to focus on that you should reflect in your application documents.

Or Connect with one of our UN insiders via a 45min video call and learn from those that have applied, interviewed and secured UN system roles.