interviewee

An interviewee is a person who answers questions in an interview. The term is used across fields such as journalism, social science research, and human resources, and may refer to someone being interviewed for a news story, a research study, or a job opening. The interviewee is the party providing information, experiences, opinions, or attitudes, while the interviewer asks questions and guides the conversation. Depending on context, interviewees may be identified or anonymized.

In journalism, interviewees provide firsthand information and quotes. Ethical practice emphasizes accuracy, fair attribution, and, when necessary, consent for publication. In research, interviewees are participants or respondents whose responses are collected under informed consent, with attention to privacy, data protection, and potential anonymity in reporting. Interviews may be structured, semi-structured, or unstructured, and interviewees may be reminded of their right to withdraw.

In employment and recruitment, the interviewee is a candidate undergoing selection. The process aims to assess qualifications, fit, and potential for the role, using notes and evaluation criteria. Employers must observe non-discrimination laws and protect candidate information.

Rights and responsibilities: interviewees may decline to answer questions, request clarification, or withdraw at any stage; interviewers should respect confidentiality and avoid coercive or misleading practices.