Participants
Understanding the differences: 1-1 Interview projects vs. Sales call projects
When participating in research and sales opportunities, it's important to know the key differences between a 1-1 Interview Project and a Sales Call Project. Each serves a different purpose, and your role as a participant varies accordingly.
1. 1-1 Interview project (Research call)
Purpose:
A feedback-focused session where you share your opinions, experiences, and insights.
Researchers gather data to improve products, services, or user experiences.
No sales pitch – just open discussions about needs, pain points, and preferences.
Compensation:
Typically starts at $85 for a 30-60 minute session.
Key guidelines:
✅ You don’t need to be a decision-maker – just have relevant experience.
✅ No sales pressure – researchers are there to listen, not sell.
✅ Honest feedback is valued – share your true thoughts without concern for closing a deal.
Best for:
People who enjoy giving feedback and influencing product development.
Those who want a straightforward research conversation without sales elements.
2. Sales call project (Product demo / Sales pitch)
Purpose:
A sales-focused session where a company presents its product/service.
You’ll be pitched a solution and may test a demo.
The goal is to evaluate potential buyers, not just gather feedback.
Compensation:
Higher rewards, starting at $250+ per session.
Key guidelines:
✅ You must be a strong prospect – either a decision-maker or highly influential in purchasing.
✅ No long-term contracts with competing solutions (you should be open to switching).
✅ Engage like a potential buyer – ask about pricing, support, and product roadmaps.
✅ Reply is required – please clearly communicate whether or not you're interested in the product – either during the call or via the project chat. Even if you're not interested, a reply is required. This feedback helps researchers improve and tailor their offerings.
Best for:
Professionals actively looking for new tools in the given category.
Those who can evaluate and potentially purchase the solution (or influence the decision).
Comparison table
Feature | 1-1 Interview (Research) | Sales Call (Product Demo) |
|---|---|---|
Purpose | Feedback & research | Sales pitch & product demo |
Compensation | Starts at $85 | Starts at $250+ |
Sales call? | No | Yes (you’ll be pitched) |
Decision-maker required? | No | Yes |
Long-term contracts allowed? | Yes | No (must be open to switching) |
Session type | Discussion & feedback | Demo, pricing talks, negotiation |
Which one should you choose?
If you enjoy giving feedback and don’t want sales pressure → 1-1 Interview Project
If you’re a decision-maker open to new solutions & want higher pay → Sales Call Project
By understanding these differences, you can choose the right projects that match your goals and preferences. Happy participating! 🚀

Author
Jonathan Kennedy
Founder at appstoreresearch
Jonathan Kennedy is the founder of app store research and shopexperts, platforms that connect operators, founders, and experts across the Shopify ecosystem to drive better decisions, product development, and growth.

Reviewed by
Filip Djokic
Product Designer at appstoreresearch.com
Filip is a Product and UI/UX Designer with over 10 years of experience in digital product design. With a strong background in the Shopify ecosystem, he focuses on improving user experiences and turning merchant insights into better product decisions at appstoreresearch.