700 - Designers - RE-Design Consultant - Exempt

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: 700 - Designers - RE-Design Consultant - Exempt

Company: Ethan Allen Global Inc

Location: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Sales Operations / Retail Operations / GTM Enablement

Date Posted: August 14, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on driving revenue through exceptional interior design consultation and sales of Ethan Allen products and services, emphasizing a relationship-based selling approach.

• The Design Consultant will be instrumental in space planning, fabric coordination, and overall project design to meet and exceed individual and Design Center sales goals.

• A key aspect involves leveraging digital tools, social media, and grassroots marketing to build a robust client base and foster long-term customer relationships.

• Success in this position is measured by a combination of performance categories, including teamwork, customer service, communication, decision-making, project development, presentation, and technical skills, alongside specific sales benchmarks.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title "Designers - RE-Design Consultant" and the description focus heavily on interior design, the core responsibilities and compensation structure (commission-based with sales targets and performance benchmarks) indicate a strong Sales Operations and GTM enablement component. This role is about driving revenue through consultative sales, requiring a blend of design expertise and sales acumen. The emphasis on using technology, CRM, and marketing strategies positions it within the broader GTM operations sphere.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop individualized interior design solutions that align with customer preferences, budgets, and project scope, encompassing space planning, fabric selection, and product integration.

• Actively sell Ethan Allen's comprehensive range of home furnishings, custom furniture, and artisan-crafted accents by building rapport and understanding client needs.

• Conduct in-home consultations to assess client requirements, present design proposals, and close sales, consistently representing the Ethan Allen brand with professionalism.

• Utilize a variety of marketing strategies, including social media platforms (blogs, micro-blogs, content sharing), grassroots initiatives, and digital channels, to cultivate new business and expand the client portfolio.

• Educate clients on Ethan Allen's complimentary design services, financing options, and the value proposition of custom-crafted products, ensuring a seamless and informative customer journey.

• Stay abreast of current interior design and color trends to offer fashionable and relevant design solutions, enhancing the appeal of proposals and driving sales.

• Collaborate effectively with the Design Center team to ensure exceptional customer service throughout the sales cycle and post-sale, including proactive communication regarding order status and potential delays.

• Participate in corporate-sponsored marketing campaigns and training programs to enhance design, sales, and technology skills, contributing to personal and team development.

• Maintain and contribute to the development of the Design Center's portfolio, showcasing successful projects and design capabilities to prospective clients.

• Leverage corporate systems and technology, including 3D Room Planner, CRM, and Live Chat, to optimize design processes, create compelling presentations, and manage client relationships efficiently.

• Process customer orders accurately using the retail point-of-sale system, ensuring data integrity and smooth transaction management.

• Maintain a neat, organized, and visually appealing Design Center environment that reflects the brand's premium positioning and enhances the client experience.

• Partner with the Design Center Leader and fellow Design Consultants to develop and execute business and marketing plans aimed at increasing market reach and exceeding sales objectives, regularly monitoring plan effectiveness and suggesting modifications.

• Utilize advanced interactive technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) for design visualization, enhancing client engagement and decision-making processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on creative design and direct sales performance, supported by operational processes like CRM utilization, POS entry, and marketing plan development. The emphasis on exceeding sales benchmarks and contributing to business plans underscores the operations aspect of this sales role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Minimum High School Diploma or equivalent is required.

• A Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a design-related field from an accredited institution is desirable. Experience:

• A minimum of one (1) year of practical interior design experience is required.

• Proven experience in utilizing social media and grass-roots marketing for business development is preferred. Required Skills:

• Comprehensive knowledge of interior design principles, space planning, and fabric coordination.

• Demonstrated ability in effective sales techniques and consultative selling to drive revenue.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with a strong emphasis on active listening and rapport-building.

• Proficiency in using online sales and design tools, including digital floor planning technology.

• Ability to manage multiple projects and client interactions simultaneously while maintaining a high level of organization.

• Adaptability and willingness to learn new technologies and design software.

• A valid driver's license and reliable transportation for in-home consultations. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with 3D design applications and advanced visualization tools (AR/VR).

• Familiarity with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems for client management and sales pipeline tracking.

• Knowledge of retail point-of-sale (POS) systems for order processing and transaction management.

• Experience in developing and executing grassroots marketing and social media strategies to build a client base.

• Understanding of financing options available to customers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of creative and sales skills, with specific requirements for digital design tools and marketing outreach. The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that while a foundational understanding is needed, significant on-the-job training in sales processes and proprietary tools will be provided.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse interior design projects that demonstrate space planning, furniture selection, color coordination, and overall aesthetic coherence.

• Include examples of client consultations and how specific design challenges were addressed to meet client needs and budgets.

• Highlight projects that utilize a range of Ethan Allen products, demonstrating familiarity with the brand's offerings.

• Present case studies that illustrate the sales process from initial client contact through to project completion and customer satisfaction.

• If possible, include examples of how digital tools (e.g., mood boards, 3D renderings) were used to present design concepts. Process Documentation:

• Candidates may be asked to describe their personal process for conducting a client consultation, from initial discovery to finalizing a design proposal.

• Be prepared to explain how you would manage client follow-up and nurture leads using CRM principles, even if informal.

• Demonstrate an understanding of how to translate client needs and space constraints into actionable design plans using systematic approaches.

• Outline how you would track project progress and communicate updates to clients, reflecting a structured approach to project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on sales and design, the portfolio should emphasize not just aesthetic capabilities but also the consultative sales process and the ability to translate client needs into tangible sales outcomes. Demonstrating process thinking around client engagement and project management is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Recoverable Draw: Typically ranging from $30,000 to $70,000 annually, based on written sales. This serves as a baseline income that is earned through commissions.

• Potential Average Income: $70,000 - $115,000 per year for experienced Design Consultants.

• Top Performers: Potential to earn $200,000 per year or more.

Benefits:

• Retirement: 401(k) plan with employer contributions.

• Health & Wellness:

  • Multiple Medical Plans with Prescription Drug Coverage.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions.
  • Dental Plan.
  • Vision Plan.

• Insurance:

  • Basic Group Term Life & Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D).
  • Supplemental Group Term Life & AD&D Insurance.
  • Dependent Group Term Life Insurance.
  • Short-Term Disability.
  • Long-Term Disability.
  • Business Travel Accident Life Insurance.

• Financial Flexibility:

  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for Health Care & Dependent Care.
  • Commuter Saving Plans for Public Transit & Parking.

• Voluntary Offerings:

  • Voluntary Whole Life Insurance.
  • Voluntary Critical Care Insurance.
  • Voluntary Accident Insurance.

• Support Services: Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Working Hours:

• This is a Full-Time position, with an expected 40 hours per week. The nature of retail sales may require flexibility in scheduling, including potential weekend and evening work, to accommodate client availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is heavily commission-driven, typical for sales roles in retail. The provided salary ranges reflect realistic earning potentials based on performance. The extensive benefits package is standard for a large, established company like Ethan Allen.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Home Furnishings & Interior Design Retail. Ethan Allen is positioned as America's #1 Premium Furniture Retailer, known for its blend of technology and personalized service.

Company Size: While specific numbers for the Design Center aren't provided, Ethan Allen Global Inc. is a significant enterprise. The company has a global network of Design Centers, suggesting a substantial workforce.

Founded: Over 90 years ago, with an enduring reputation for quality and craftsmanship. This long history implies a stable work environment with established processes and brand recognition.

Team Structure:

• The Design Consultant works within a Design Center, likely reporting to a Design Center Leader or Design Sales Leader.

• Collaboration with other Design Consultants is expected for mutual success and customer service.

• The role involves cross-functional interaction with operations, logistics, and potentially marketing teams to ensure a smooth client experience. Methodology:

• Client-Centric Design: Focuses on understanding individual customer needs to create tailored design solutions.

• Relationship-Based Selling: Emphasizes building long-term client relationships to foster repeat business and referrals.

• Data-Driven Performance: Performance is measured against specific benchmarks (sales, home calls, etc.) and evaluated based on key performance categories.

• Technology Integration: Utilizes modern technology, including CRM, 3D planning tools, and social media, to enhance design processes and client engagement.

Company Website: https://www.ethanallen.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Ethan Allen's culture appears to value craftsmanship, personal service, and entrepreneurial drive among its associates. The emphasis on long-term client relationships and a premium brand positioning suggests a professional and client-focused environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level position within the sales and design function, often referred to as a "Design Consultant" or "Sales Designer." It serves as a foundational role for individuals looking to build a career in interior design sales and client management.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Design Center Leader or Design Sales Leader, who oversees the performance and development of the Design Consultants within a specific location. This leader likely provides coaching, sets sales targets, and manages day-to-day operations of the Design Center.

Operations Impact: The Design Consultant directly impacts revenue generation through sales. Their ability to create compelling design solutions, manage client relationships effectively, and meet sales targets directly contributes to the financial success of the Design Center and the overall company. They are the frontline brand ambassadors and revenue generators.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Specialization: Potential to advance into higher-tier Design Consultant roles with larger client portfolios or specialized product expertise, leading to significantly higher commission earnings.

• Leadership Track: Progression to Design Center Leader or Design Sales Leader roles, managing a team of consultants and overseeing the operational and financial performance of a Design Center.

• Cross-Functional Roles: Opportunities to move into related areas such as visual merchandising, sales training, or even marketing roles within the retail operations framework, leveraging their client and sales experience.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in interior design trends, advanced design software, sales methodologies, and digital marketing techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not a traditional "operations" role focused on internal processes, the sales targets, performance metrics, and reliance on technology for business development place this role within the broader GTM operations ecosystem. Growth paths are clearly defined within sales leadership and specialized design roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in an Ethan Allen Design Center, which functions as a retail showroom and design studio. This environment is customer-facing, professional, and designed to showcase home furnishings.

Office Location(s): Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This location is a retail hub, offering potential for walk-in traffic and local client engagement.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will include a personal design area, access to product samples, and potentially a dedicated station for utilizing design software and technology.

• The environment is collaborative, with shared access to showroom spaces and resources for client presentations.

• Interaction with clients is a primary component, requiring a polished and welcoming demeanor.

• Opportunities to work alongside experienced designers and sales professionals provide a learning and collaborative atmosphere.

Work Schedule: Full-time, likely involving a mix of in-center hours and scheduled client appointments, which may include evenings and weekends to accommodate customer availability. The 40-hour work week will require effective time management to balance client outreach, in-store presence, and administrative tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site, customer-facing nature of the Design Center is key. The environment is structured to support both the creative design process and the sales function, with an emphasis on client experience and brand representation.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess basic qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's requirements.

• First Interview (Phone/Video): A conversation with a hiring manager or recruiter to discuss your background, interest in Ethan Allen, and foundational design/sales experience.

Expect questions about your approach to client interaction and your understanding of design principles.

• In-Person Interview/Assessment: This stage may involve a more in-depth discussion, potentially including:

  • Portfolio Presentation: You will likely be asked to present a selection of your design work, explaining your process, design choices, and the outcomes for clients.
  • Scenario-Based Questions: You might be presented with hypothetical client scenarios to gauge your problem-solving skills, design approach, and sales strategy.
  • Design Exercise: A practical exercise might be included, such as creating a quick mood board or space plan based on a given brief, to assess your design thinking and tool proficiency.
  • Cultural Fit Assessment: Discussions about teamwork, customer service philosophy, and alignment with Ethan Allen's values.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership, to confirm fit and discuss compensation and expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 5-7 of your strongest projects that best showcase your skills in space planning, product selection, and client-focused design. Ensure variety if possible.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the client's initial needs, the challenges you faced, your design process and solutions, and the final outcome (including how you closed the sale and ensured client satisfaction).

• Highlight Process: Explain how you arrived at your design decisions, demonstrating your analytical and problem-solving capabilities.

• Showcase Brand Alignment: If possible, include projects that reflect a similar aesthetic or client demographic to Ethan Allen's target market.

• Quantify Impact: If you have sales data or client testimonials related to your projects, include them to demonstrate your effectiveness in driving revenue and client satisfaction.

• Digital Proficiency: Be ready to walk through digital tools used, such as 3D renderings or mood boards, and explain their role in the client experience.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Scenarios: Practice responding to common sales objections, questions about pricing, and requests for design advice.

• Client Needs Assessment: Prepare to articulate how you would uncover a client's core needs, preferences, and budget constraints during an initial consultation.

• Brand Messaging: Familiarize yourself with Ethan Allen's brand positioning, product quality, and service offerings to articulate their value proposition effectively.

• Social Media Strategy: Be ready to discuss how you would use social media and grassroots efforts to build your client book.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio presentation and potential design exercises indicates a practical assessment of skills. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate both their creative design abilities and their sales acumen, with a focus on how their work drives business results.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Room Planner / Digital Floor Planning Technology: Essential for creating visual layouts and design proposals. Proficiency in this area is a key requirement.

• CRM System (e.g., Salesforce, or Ethan Allen's proprietary system): Used for managing client information, tracking sales leads, scheduling appointments, and monitoring sales pipeline progress.

• Retail Point of Sale (POS) System: Required for processing customer orders, managing transactions, and handling payment processing.

• Social Media Platforms: Active use of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, blogs, and micro-blogs for marketing, lead generation, and brand building.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated as analytical tools, performance metrics (Minimum Monthly Sales, Home Calls, Accent Sales, Softgood Sales, Be-Backs, PI, Close Ratio, Ethan Allen Trade Program) will likely be tracked and reported on, requiring the consultant to understand and strive to meet these benchmarks. CRM & Automation:

• CRM: As mentioned, crucial for customer relationship management.

• Live Chat: Utilized for real-time customer interaction and lead capture on the company website.

Visualization Tools:

• Augmented Reality (AR) / Virtual Reality (VR): Increasingly used to enhance client visualization of design concepts and products within their own spaces. Experience or willingness to learn these is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is geared towards sales enablement, customer engagement, and design visualization. Proficiency in these tools is critical for success in the role and for driving sales performance.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Craftsmanship: A core value of Ethan Allen, reflected in their products and service delivery.

• Client-Centricity: Placing the customer's needs and satisfaction at the forefront of all interactions and design decisions.

• Entrepreneurial Drive: Encouraging initiative, self-motivation, and a proactive approach to business development and sales.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Fostering a supportive environment where associates work together to achieve common goals and provide exceptional service.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new technologies and trends in design and marketing to stay competitive.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working seamlessly with other Design Consultants and potentially Design Center leadership to share insights, support client needs, and collectively achieve sales targets.

• Feedback Culture: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve individual performance and team effectiveness.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share best practices in design, sales techniques, and technology utilization with colleagues to elevate the overall performance of the Design Center.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes client relationships, premium quality, and personal drive. The collaborative aspect is important for supporting a team-based sales environment and ensuring consistent customer service.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income: The primary challenge is the reliance on commission for income, requiring consistent high performance to achieve financial goals. This necessitates strong sales skills and resilience.

• Client Acquisition & Retention: Continuously attracting new clients and retaining existing ones in a competitive market requires proactive marketing and exceptional service.

• Balancing Design & Sales: Effectively merging creative design expertise with persuasive sales techniques to close deals without compromising client satisfaction.

• Adapting to Technology: Staying current with evolving design software, CRM functionalities, and digital marketing tools requires continuous learning.

• Market Fluctuations: Navigating potential shifts in the housing market or consumer spending that could impact demand for home furnishings.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Design Skill Enhancement: Access to ongoing training on new product lines, design trends, and advanced design techniques.

• Sales Methodology Training: Development in consultative selling, objection handling, closing techniques, and client relationship management.

• Technology Proficiency: Training on Ethan Allen's proprietary design software, CRM, and other digital tools to maximize efficiency and client engagement.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced Design Consultants and Leaders, gaining insights into successful business development strategies.

• Career Progression: Clear pathways to leadership roles within Design Centers or specialized sales positions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a commission-driven sales role in a competitive retail environment. Growth opportunities are well-defined, offering clear paths for advancement within the company's sales and leadership structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for conducting an initial client consultation. How do you uncover their needs, style preferences, and budget?" (Focus on active listening, probing questions, and needs analysis.)

• "How would you approach selling a high-ticket item like a custom sofa to a client who is hesitant about the price or lead time?" (Focus on value proposition, benefits, financing options, and addressing objections.)

• "Imagine a client is unsure about a specific fabric choice. How would you guide them to a decision while ensuring they feel confident and supported?" (Focus on providing options, explaining benefits, using design principles, and building trust.)

• "How do you leverage social media or other marketing efforts to build your client base and generate leads?" (Focus on specific platforms, content strategy, and engagement tactics.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Ethan Allen specifically, and how do you see yourself contributing to our brand's reputation for quality and design?" (Research Ethan Allen's history, values, and market position.)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your designs or sales approach?" (Demonstrate openness to learning and improvement.)

• "Describe a time you had to collaborate with a team member to achieve a common goal. What was your role, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight teamwork and communication skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Narratives: For each project, provide a brief overview of the client's goals, your approach, and the successful outcome. Aim for 2-3 minutes per project.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your visual aids are high-quality and easy to understand. Highlight key design elements and product selections.

• Quantify Success: If possible, mention sales figures, client satisfaction levels, or how your design contributed to a successful sale.

• Process Explanation: Be ready to walk through the steps you took, from initial concept to final installation or sale.

• Engagement: Ask the interviewers if they have specific questions about your portfolio as you present, making it interactive.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on blending design expertise with strong sales acumen. Candidates should be ready to articulate their process, handle objections, and demonstrate how they drive revenue through design.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Dayforce portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your interior design experience, sales achievements (if applicable), customer service skills, and any experience with design software or marketing. Use keywords from the job description like "space planning," "product selection," "sales techniques," and "social media marketing."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a digital portfolio showcasing 3-5 of your best design projects. Ensure each project includes a description of the client's needs, your design solution, and the outcome. Be ready to present this digitally or in person.

• Research Ethan Allen: Familiarize yourself with Ethan Allen's brand, product lines, design aesthetic, and company values. Understand their position as a premium furniture retailer.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers for common interview questions related to design, sales, customer service, and your motivation for applying. Practice articulating your design process and sales approach clearly and concisely.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.