Quick and Simple: Paid 90-Minute Conversation Study

About the role

Mindrift is conducting an in-person research study exploring how people communicate and interact in everyday group conversations. We're looking for adults in the Santa Clara Valley (South Bay) area to join a paid, guided conversation session. We welcome people from all backgrounds, with different accents and first languages. No special experience is needed.

Participation is voluntary and covered by a signed consent form that explains exactly what's involved, including how recordings are used and stored. You can ask questions at any point and choose to withdraw from the study.

Responsibilities

• Check in on site with our coordinator, who will guide you through every step.
• Join a small group of 2–4 people for a guided conversation led by a trained moderator.
• Talk about everyday, non-sensitive topics, such as planning a birthday celebration or making everyday decisions.
• Take part in a session of about 90 minutes. The conversation is recorded on video and audio for research purposes.

Requirements

• 18–64 years of age.
• Living in or able to travel to Santa Clara Valley (South Bay), California.
• Comfortable holding a conversation in English. Non-native speakers and all accents are welcome.
• Comfortable being recorded on video and audio during the session.
• Able to attend one in-person session on a weekday between November 2026 and March 2027.
• Have not taken part in this study before (each person participates once).
• Students, working professionals, and people from all walks of life are welcome to apply.

Pay

$110 for one 90-minute session, paid through Mindrift after you complete the session. Travel costs are not covered. No previous experience is required.