Application Guide

How to Apply for Summer 2026 Intern - Demo Operations

at Workiva

🏢 About Workiva

Workiva stands out as a leader in integrated ESG reporting, specifically focusing on transparent climate impact and compliance solutions. Their platform streamlines complex financial and environmental data, making them unique in bridging finance, technology, and sustainability. This makes them an ideal workplace for those passionate about using technology to drive corporate transparency and environmental responsibility.

About This Role

As a Summer 2026 Intern in Demo Operations, you'll translate technical software capabilities into compelling stories and demonstrations for diverse audiences. You'll directly support sales and customer success teams by showcasing how Workiva's platform addresses real-world ESG and financial reporting challenges. This role is impactful because you'll be at the intersection of product, sales, and customer experience, helping clients understand the value of transparent reporting.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve collaborating with product teams to understand new features, then scripting and practicing demos that show how those features solve ESG reporting challenges. You could spend time tailoring demonstration scenarios for different industries or client types, followed by supporting sales teams with live demo assistance or creating recorded walkthroughs for customer onboarding.

🎯 Who Workiva Is Looking For

  • Currently pursuing a degree in Technology, Engineering, MIS, Finance, or Accounting with coursework or projects involving SaaS/cloud platforms
  • Has hands-on exposure to financial systems like budgeting, FP&A, general ledger, or financial modeling through classes, internships, or personal projects
  • Demonstrates ability to explain technical concepts clearly to non-technical audiences, possibly through teaching, tutoring, or presentation experience
  • Shows interest in ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) reporting, sustainability, or climate-related compliance through coursework, clubs, or prior experience

📝 Tips for Applying to Workiva

1

Highlight any experience with financial software platforms (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle) or data management tools in your resume, even if from coursework

2

Mention specific ESG or sustainability projects you've worked on, as Workiva's focus is integrated ESG reporting

3

Include examples where you've translated technical information for broader audiences, such as creating tutorials, demos, or presentations

4

Research Workiva's Wdesk platform and mention how your skills align with their cloud-based financial solutions ecosystem

5

Tailor your application to show understanding of both the technical (SaaS/cloud) and financial (accounting/FP&A) aspects of the role

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Demonstrate your ability to translate technical scenarios into stories by describing a specific project where you explained complex information clearly', "Connect your background in finance/accounting/technology to Workiva's mission of streamlining ESG reporting and compliance", "Explain why you're interested in demo operations specifically and how it aligns with Workiva's cross-functional collaboration approach", 'Mention any exposure to customer-facing roles or sales support, even indirectly, to show readiness for assisting sales and client teams']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Explore Workiva's ESG solutions page and understand their specific offerings for climate impact reporting
  • Watch public Workiva demo videos or webinars to understand their platform's interface and capabilities
  • Research the regulatory landscape for ESG reporting (e.g., SEC climate disclosure rules, EU CSRD) to understand compliance drivers
  • Look into Workiva's customer case studies to see how clients in different industries use their platform

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you had to explain a technical concept to someone without a technical background
2 How would you demonstrate a software feature for financial planning to a potential client with limited finance knowledge?
3 What do you know about ESG reporting and why is it important for companies like Workiva's clients?
4 How have you collaborated across different teams or functions in past projects or coursework?
5 What experience do you have with financial platforms or data management tools, and how would that help in creating demos?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application without mentioning Workiva's focus on ESG, sustainability, or financial reporting
  • Failing to provide concrete examples of translating technical information or working with financial/data platforms
  • Overlooking the cross-functional nature of the role by not highlighting collaboration or customer-facing experience

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Workiva!