Interviewee vs. Respondent — What's the Difference?

An interviewee is primarily involved in interviews, which can be for jobs, research, or media purposes. This setting is generally conversational and can be either formal or informal, depending on the context. On the other hand, a respondent is engaged in providing responses to inquiries, which may come through surveys, polls, or legal proceedings. The nature of these interactions is usually structured and based on specific questions.

Interviewees often prepare for their interviews by researching the company or the interviewer to make a good impression and provide relevant answers. They are active participants in a dialogue designed to assess their qualifications or opinions. Whereas respondents typically answer within predefined options or limited frameworks, especially in surveys or questionnaires, reflecting passive participation.

In job interviews, an interviewee's goal is often to secure a position or advance in a selection process, making their responses strategically aligned with job requirements and organizational culture. On the other hand, respondents in surveys are usually contributing data to research or feedback efforts, with less personal stake in the outcome.

The interaction with an interviewee is usually face-to-face, over the phone, or via video calls, providing a personal touch and allowing for nuanced communication. Conversely, respondents often engage through written forms or digital platforms, where personal interaction is minimal or non-existent.

The feedback loop for interviewees can be immediate, as interviewers often provide on-the-spot reactions or follow-up questions. However, respondents might not receive direct feedback or results from their input unless it is part of a study's conclusion sharing process.