Overview:

Shady Sadie Recruiting is an interactive, scenario-based sales training game designed in Articulate Storyline. Players take on the role of a sales agent for a high-volume firm, tasked with closing potential clients using strategic persuasion techniques.

Guided by the sharp and no-nonsense Shady Sadie, players must select the best closing statements to optimize their retention success rate and conversion performance.

The training consists of two rounds, but Round 2 is only unlocked if the player successfully completes Round 1:

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• Round 1: Closing Basics

  • Players choose the strongest persuasive statement from multiple options.

  • The right choices increase retention success and conversion rate.

  • If they fail Round 1, they do not advance to Round 2.

• Round 2: Advanced Retention (Unlocked Only If They Pass Round 1)

  • Players must identify and use the exact phrasing of proven closing techniques.

  • Only the precise wording leads to a successful close.

  • The stakes are higher, and the final score determines their in-game job offer.
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At the end of the training, a high conversion rate earns the player a prestigious job offer, while poor performance lands them at a less reputable competitor with a humorous name.

Through real-time feedback, gamification mechanics, and scenario-based decision-making, this training sharpens closing skills, objection handling, and retention strategy.

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Tools Used:

• Articulate Storyline (interactive development, motion path animations, custom variables)

• Canva (character creation)

• Vyond (animated character dialogue and scene transitions)

• LMS Integration (tracking and reporting)

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Learning Theory:

Built on scenario-based learning and sales psychology principles, Shady Sadie Recruiting provides realistic practice in high-pressure sales environments. The training leverages:

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• Decision-based learning – Players actively apply knowledge instead of passively reading.

• Progressive mastery – Players must demonstrate competence in Round 1 before advancing to higher-stakes decision-making in Round 2.

• Immediate feedback loops – Reinforces correct answers while explaining why incorrect choices don’t work.

• Gamification and competition – Adds engagement, motivation, and a risk-free learning environment where players refine their approach.
   

By requiring repeated exposure to real-world sales scripts and objection-handling techniques, the training ensures deep reinforcement of key skills, helping employees confidently close deals and handle objections effectively.

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