Role-play simulations give you a safe, private space to practice real workplace conversations out loud before they happen. Each scenario is designed to help you build confidence, try different approaches, and get feedback in the moment.
Role-play is part of Spark AI and is available through the Torch platform whenever you want to practice.
Getting started with role-play
You can start a role-play simulation at any time.
Log into Torch.
Navigate to Role-Play then Library from the Spark AI dashboard.
Select a scenario from the library.
Review the scenario and goals.
Start the role-play and begin speaking.
No setup is required beyond access to Spark AI and a working microphone.
What role-play simulations are
Role-play simulations are guided, voice-based practice conversations with AI characters. Each scenario features a specific character with a name and role (for example, a direct report, peer, or manager). You speak directly with that character as if you were having a real conversation at work.
Spark supports your practice by providing real-time tips and feedback alongside the conversation.
Role-play simulations are voice-only. You’ll need a microphone to participate.
When role-play is most useful
Role-play simulations are especially helpful when you want to practice without pressure or visibility.
You might use role-play to:
Prepare for a difficult feedback or performance conversation
Practice responding to missed deadlines or unmet expectations
Rehearse how to communicate a change or decision
Work on a specific skill your coach, manager, or organization has encouraged you to develop
Try different ways of responding before a real conversation
Role-play is designed for use on your own, in a private space, so you can practice freely without feeling self-conscious.
How role-play works
Here’s what to expect when you start a role-play simulation.
Choose a scenario
You’ll begin by selecting a role-play scenario from the library. Each scenario represents a realistic workplace situation and a specific character you’ll be speaking with.
Scenarios cover common leadership moments such as feedback, performance, communication, engagement, and career conversations.
Prepare before you begin
Before the role-play starts, you’ll see:
The scenario context
The character you’ll be speaking with
The skills and behaviors you’ll practice
Clear goals for the interaction
This helps you focus your approach before you begin speaking.
Practice through voice conversation
Once the role-play begins, you’ll speak directly with the character using your microphone.
During the role-play:
The character responds in real time based on what you say
You can take the conversation in different directions
The interaction unfolds like a real conversation
At the same time, Spark supports you in the left-hand panel by:
Offering real-time tips and guidance
Highlighting moments to adjust your approach
Responding if you ask for feedback or clarification
The role-play conversation and Spark guidance work together to help you improve your skills in real time.
There is no set time limit. You control how long the role-play lasts.
Review your role-play report
After you end the role-play, you’ll receive a report to help you reflect on how the conversation went.
The report includes:
A summary of the interaction
Feedback connected to the skills you practiced
Suggestions for improvement and next steps
A transcript of the role-play conversation
This report is for your personal reflection and development.
What you can practice through role-play
Role-play simulations are designed to help you practice leadership behaviors in realistic context.
You may practice scenarios like:
Giving clear, structured feedback
Asking thoughtful, open-ended questions
Validating emotions while holding boundaries
Clarifying expectations and next steps
Navigating resistance, defensiveness, or disengagement
Communicating confidently in high-stakes moments
Each scenario makes it clear what you’ll be practicing before you begin.
Privacy and boundaries
Role-play simulations are private and designed for individual practice.
Role-play conversations and reports are not shared with your manager, coach, or organization
Admins do not have access to your role-play activity or results
Role-play is not used for evaluation or performance tracking
This allows you to practice openly and focus on learning.