Application Guide

How to Apply for Summer 2026 Intern - Talent Acquisition

at Workiva

🏢 About Workiva

Workiva is a unique company that specializes in streamlining integrated ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting, helping organizations achieve transparent climate impact and compliance. Their focus on sustainability and corporate responsibility makes them an attractive employer for candidates interested in meaningful work that addresses global challenges. As a remote-first company, they offer flexibility while maintaining a strong collaborative culture.

About This Role

This Talent Acquisition Intern role involves learning to source and recruit top talent using specialized tools, partnering with recruiters to screen candidates, and building relationships with colleges and diversity organizations to enhance early career programs. The role is impactful because you'll directly contribute to shaping Workiva's future workforce while gaining hands-on experience in ESG-focused talent acquisition.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with reviewing candidate applications in the ATS and screening resumes against specific role requirements, then attending a virtual meeting with recruiters to discuss sourcing strategies for diversity candidates. The afternoon could involve reaching out to college career centers or student organizations to promote internship opportunities, followed by updating candidate communication templates and researching best practices for early career program enhancement.

🎯 Who Workiva Is Looking For

  • Currently enrolled in a Business, HR Management, or Psychology program with coursework or projects related to talent acquisition or organizational behavior
  • Demonstrates exceptional organizational skills through experience managing multiple projects or events simultaneously in fast-paced environments
  • Has proven communication skills through leadership roles in campus organizations, particularly those focused on diversity, inclusion, or professional development
  • Shows self-motivation through examples of initiating improvements or taking action beyond assigned responsibilities in academic or extracurricular settings

📝 Tips for Applying to Workiva

1

Highlight any experience with recruitment tools (like LinkedIn Recruiter, Handshake, or applicant tracking systems) even if basic - mention specific platforms you've used

2

Include concrete examples of relationship-building with student organizations, diversity groups, or professional associations in your resume

3

Research Workiva's ESG reporting platform (Wdesk) and mention how their mission aligns with your interest in responsible business practices

4

Demonstrate your ability to work remotely by mentioning successful virtual collaboration experiences in academic or extracurricular settings

5

Quantify your organizational skills with specific examples (e.g., 'managed communication for 50+ candidates during campus recruitment event')

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Explain why you're specifically interested in talent acquisition within an ESG-focused company like Workiva", 'Describe relevant experience building relationships with student organizations or diversity groups', "Provide examples of how you've managed multiple priorities in fast-paced environments", 'Connect your academic background (Business, HR, Psychology) to practical talent acquisition scenarios']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Workiva's ESG reporting platform (Wdesk) and their specific climate impact solutions
  • Workiva's diversity and inclusion initiatives and early career programs mentioned on their careers page
  • Recent news about Workiva's growth, remote work culture, or industry recognition
  • The specific challenges companies face in ESG reporting and compliance that might impact talent needs

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach building relationships with diversity-focused student organizations at your university?
2 Describe a time you had to manage multiple competing priorities - how did you organize your work?
3 What interests you about talent acquisition specifically in the ESG/sustainability sector?
4 How would you screen resumes for early-career roles in a tech company like Workiva?
5 Tell us about a time you suggested or implemented an improvement to a process or program
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention Workiva's ESG focus or remote culture
  • Failing to provide specific examples of organizational or relationship-building skills
  • Not demonstrating understanding of what talent acquisition involves beyond basic administrative tasks

📅 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!