DESIGN CONSULTANT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: Bassett Furniture

Location: Buford, Georgia, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Retail Sales / Interior Design

Date Posted: August 06, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue growth by leveraging interior design expertise and consultative sales techniques within a retail showroom environment.

• Cultivate and maintain long-term customer relationships through personalized design consultations and home makeovers.

• Translate client needs, lifestyle, and budget into compelling furniture and design solutions, ensuring customer satisfaction and loyalty.

• Achieve and exceed sales targets through a commission-based compensation structure, supported by comprehensive training and ongoing development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is fundamentally a sales position within the retail furniture sector, with a strong emphasis on interior design skills. The "Design Consultant" title signifies a consultative sales approach, requiring a blend of sales acumen and aesthetic judgment. The operations aspect lies in managing the sales process, customer relationships, and contributing to showroom operational efficiency through effective sales strategies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth interior design consultations with clients, actively listening to understand their tastes, lifestyle, and investment range to propose tailored furniture and decor solutions.

• Utilize "relationship selling" techniques to build rapport, trust, and long-term customer loyalty, aiming for repeat business and referrals.

• Develop and present comprehensive design proposals, including furniture selections, fabric choices, color palettes, and layout recommendations.

• Execute in-home or virtual design makeovers, demonstrating the ability to visualize and implement design concepts effectively.

• Maintain a deep understanding of Bassett Furniture's product lines, construction details, design trends, and customization options to provide expert advice.

• Actively engage in lead generation and client cultivation activities, including follow-up calls, emails, and virtual appointments.

• Collaborate with showroom management and team members to ensure a seamless customer experience and contribute to overall store performance.

• Manage sales pipeline, track customer interactions, and process orders accurately using company CRM and order management systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a blend of direct sales, client management, and design execution. The emphasis on "relationship selling," "makeovers," and "clientele building" underscores the importance of customer engagement and retention in a commission-driven environment. The role requires proactive client outreach and the ability to manage a diverse client base.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While formal interior design degrees are not explicitly required, a strong understanding of design principles, color theory, and space planning is essential. A background in a related field or relevant certifications would be advantageous.

Experience: 2-5 years of proven success in a sales-oriented role, preferably within retail, furniture, or interior design. Demonstrated ability to meet or exceed sales quotas is critical.

Required Skills:

• Passion for Interior Design: A genuine interest and aesthetic sensibility for home furnishings and interior design principles.

• Sales Acumen: Proven ability to drive sales, close deals, and achieve revenue targets, ideally in a commission-based environment.

• Relationship Building: Exceptional interpersonal skills to establish rapport, build trust, and nurture long-term customer relationships.

• Communication & Presentation: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts clearly and persuasively.

• Color & Texture Coordination: A keen eye for discerning and harmonizing colors, fabrics, and textures to create aesthetically pleasing spaces.

• Customer Needs Assessment: Strong active listening skills to accurately interpret customer wants, lifestyle, and budget constraints.

• Computer Proficiency: Competence with standard office software, and the ability to quickly learn and utilize CRM and design-specific software.

• Self-Motivation & Drive: A proactive and results-oriented mindset, with the ability to work independently and manage time effectively.

• Positive & Friendly Demeanor: An approachable and outgoing personality that fosters positive customer interactions.

• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a dynamic retail environment and adapt to varying customer needs and paces.

• Professional Image: A polished appearance and demeanor that reflects the brand's premium positioning.

Preferred Skills:

• Interior Design Certification or formal training.

• Experience with design visualization tools or software.

• Previous experience in furniture sales or home decor.

• Ability to conduct virtual appointments and live chats effectively.

• Experience with driving to customer residences for consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a combination of sales expertise and design flair. The "2-5 years" experience level suggests a role that is not entry-level but also not senior management, fitting for a consultant who is expected to be proficient but still developing within the company's framework. The emphasis on "relationship selling" and "clientele building" points to a need for candidates who can manage a book of business and foster repeat customers.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Sales Success Metrics: Quantifiable achievements demonstrating your ability to meet or exceed sales targets, ideally presented with context on the sales environment and your role.

• Design Consultation Case Studies: Examples of past client projects, showcasing your process from initial consultation to final design solution, highlighting how you translated client needs into tangible outcomes.

• Visual Design Examples: A curated selection of design projects, mood boards, or room layouts that demonstrate your aesthetic sensibility, color coordination skills, and ability to create cohesive spaces.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Examples: While direct system access might not be shareable, describe your approach to managing customer interactions, follow-ups, and building client loyalty. Highlight any CRM tools you've used effectively.

• Project Management Examples: Showcase how you manage multiple client projects simultaneously, from initial inquiry through order fulfillment, ensuring timely delivery and customer satisfaction.

Process Documentation:

• Client Needs Assessment Framework: Outline your structured approach to understanding customer requirements, including key questions you ask and how you analyze their lifestyle, tastes, and budget.

• Design Proposal Development Process: Detail the steps involved in creating a design proposal, from product selection and space planning to presenting fabric swatches and rendering visualizations.

• Sales Cycle Management: Describe your end-to-end sales process, from initial contact and qualification to closing the sale, post-sale follow-up, and strategies for generating repeat business.

• Virtual Consultation Workflow: Explain your methodology for conducting effective remote consultations, including tools used, techniques for engaging clients virtually, and how you present design solutions digitally.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a "Design Consultant" role, the portfolio should not just be about aesthetics but also about demonstrating sales effectiveness and client management processes. Emphasize how your design skills directly contribute to sales outcomes and customer satisfaction. The process documentation should reflect a structured approach to consultative selling and design service delivery.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $70,000 - $135,000+ per year. This range is based on a commission-plus-bonus structure, with average earnings for experienced consultants between $70,000-$105,000 and top performers earning up to $135,000+.

Benefits:

• Paid Training: Comprehensive initial training program covering product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills.

• Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Medical benefits package for eligible employees.

• Disability Insurance: Short-term and/or long-term disability coverage.

• Life Insurance: Basic life insurance policy provided.

• 401(k) Plan: Retirement savings plan with potential company match.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and professional development.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued vacation, sick leave, or personal days.

• Generous Employee Discounts: Substantial discounts on Bassett Furniture products.

• State-of-the-Art Showroom: Work environment in a modern, well-equipped retail space.

• Opportunity for Growth: Potential for career advancement within the company.

Working Hours: Full-time commitment, typically requiring flexibility to work weekends and holidays, as is common in retail sales environments. The role involves a significant amount of client interaction, which may extend beyond standard business hours based on client availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is heavily commission-driven, with a significant upside potential for high performers. The inclusion of "Paid training" and "Tuition assistance" highlights Bassett's investment in employee development, which is crucial for a role that requires continuous learning in design and sales. The compensation structure is typical for consultative sales roles where performance directly impacts earnings.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail & Manufacturing. Bassett Furniture is a long-standing American brand with over a century of history (founded in 1902) in crafting quality, customizable furniture. They blend traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation in furniture retailing.

Company Size: Bassett Furniture Industries is a publicly traded company (NASDAQ: BSET) with a significant retail footprint and manufacturing operations. While specific employee numbers can fluctuate, it operates as a mid-to-large-sized enterprise with a substantial number of retail locations and corporate staff. This size offers both the stability of an established brand and opportunities for career progression.

Founded: 1902. This extensive history signifies stability, brand recognition, and a deep understanding of the furniture market and customer needs. The company's focus on evolving while retaining its heritage suggests a culture that values both tradition and innovation.

Team Structure:

• Showroom Team: Design Consultants typically work within a retail showroom environment, reporting to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager. They collaborate closely with fellow consultants, design assistants, and potentially administrative staff.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: While primarily customer-facing, Design Consultants will interact with operations, logistics, and customer service teams to ensure smooth order fulfillment and after-sales support. They may also collaborate with marketing on local promotions.

• Reporting Hierarchy: The typical reporting structure involves direct reporting to a local store manager, with potential oversight from regional sales directors for larger organizations.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Bassett emphasizes understanding and meeting individual customer needs through personalized service and customization.

• Relationship Selling: The core sales methodology focuses on building long-term client relationships rather than transactional sales.

• Design Expertise Integration: Design principles and trends are integrated into the sales process, empowering consultants to act as trusted advisors.

• Continuous Improvement: The company invests in training and development, indicating a culture that supports learning and adaptation to market changes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett's long history is a key differentiator, suggesting a stable and reputable employer. The company's emphasis on "quality custom furniture" and "innovating furniture retailing" points to a culture that balances tradition with forward-thinking strategies. For a Design Consultant, this means working for a brand that offers both established credibility and opportunities to engage with modern design and retail practices.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a "Design Consultant," typically falling into an intermediate sales level. It requires a blend of practical sales experience and developing design expertise. It's a client-facing role focused on direct revenue generation.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants report directly to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager within their designated retail location. This structure allows for direct coaching, performance feedback, and guidance on sales strategies and design application.

Operations Impact: The primary impact of a Design Consultant is on revenue generation and customer satisfaction. By successfully selling furniture and design services, they directly contribute to the company's sales targets and profitability. Furthermore, their ability to create positive customer experiences and build loyalty through effective design solutions enhances brand reputation and drives repeat business, indirectly impacting operational efficiency through reduced customer churn and increased lifetime customer value.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Consultant/Sales Specialist: Advancement to roles with greater sales responsibility, higher commission potential, or specialization in specific product lines (e.g., outdoor furniture, custom upholstery).

• Showroom Management: Progression into leadership roles such as Assistant Showroom Manager or Showroom Manager, overseeing sales teams, operations, and store performance.

• Design Leadership/Training: Opportunities to become a lead designer, mentor junior consultants, or participate in developing training materials for new hires, leveraging their expertise in interior design.

• Regional Sales Roles: Potential to move into roles that oversee multiple locations or support regional sales initiatives.

• Specialized Roles: Opportunities in areas like visual merchandising, product development, or corporate sales, depending on individual career aspirations and company needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a Design Consultant is typically within the sales and retail management track. The company's mention of "opportunity for growth and advancement" and its long history suggest a company that invests in its employees' development. The role provides a solid foundation for a career in retail sales and design.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a retail showroom environment. Design Consultants will primarily work within a state-of-the-art Bassett Furniture showroom, which is designed to be visually appealing and showcase the company's product lines effectively.

Office Location(s): The specific location is Buford, Georgia. This implies working in a retail setting that is accessible to customers in that geographic area. The role also requires the ability to travel to customers' residences and businesses for makeovers.

Workspace Context:

• Showroom Floor: The primary workspace is the retail showroom, which is customer-facing and requires maintaining a professional and inviting appearance. This involves constant interaction with clients.

• Design Stations/Work Areas: Consultants will likely have access to designated areas for consultations, where they can utilize fabric samples, design tools, and potentially computer stations for creating proposals and virtual designs.

• Collaborative Atmosphere: The showroom environment fosters collaboration among sales consultants, management, and support staff to ensure a cohesive customer experience and share best practices.

• Technology Integration: Expect access to computers, potentially tablets, and other technology for CRM, design software, and order processing.

Work Schedule: This is a full-time position that necessitates flexibility. Retail environments typically require working weekends and holidays. The schedule will be designed to ensure showroom coverage and accommodate client appointments, which may sometimes fall outside traditional business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-focused. The need to travel to customer locations adds an element of mobility to the role, distinguishing it from a purely desk-bound position. The "state-of-the-art showroom" suggests a modern and well-equipped retail space that supports the design and sales process.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Application Screening: Review of resume and application to assess basic qualifications, sales experience, and passion for design.

2. Phone/Video Screening: A preliminary interview with an HR representative or hiring manager to discuss experience, motivations, and cultural fit. This stage often includes behavioral questions about past sales performance and customer interactions.

3. In-Person Interview/Showroom Visit: A more in-depth interview, likely at the Buford showroom. This may involve a practical exercise, such as a mock client consultation or design presentation. Assess your communication style, design sensibility, and ability to engage with the showroom environment.

4. Portfolio Review: Presentation of your portfolio showcasing past design work, sales achievements, and client success stories. Be prepared to discuss your process and the impact of your work.

5. Final Interview: Potentially with a regional manager or senior leadership to discuss long-term career goals and fit within the company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Sales Results: Integrate quantifiable sales achievements alongside design examples. Demonstrate how your design skills directly led to sales and customer satisfaction.

• Highlight Design Process: Clearly articulate your approach to client consultations, needs assessment, concept development, and final presentation. Use case studies to walk interviewers through your methodology.

• Visual Appeal: Ensure your portfolio is professionally designed, visually engaging, and easy to navigate. High-quality images of your work are crucial.

• Tailor to Bassett: Emphasize projects or styles that align with Bassett Furniture's brand aesthetic and customer base. If you have experience with custom furniture or similar high-value retail, highlight it.

• Demonstrate Consultative Skills: Include examples of how you've built rapport, managed client expectations, and provided exceptional customer service.

Challenge Preparation:

• Mock Consultation: Practice conducting a simulated design consultation. Be ready to ask probing questions, listen actively, and propose solutions based on hypothetical client needs.

• Design Presentation: Prepare a concise presentation of a sample design project. Focus on explaining your design choices, the rationale behind them, and how they meet client objectives.

• Sales Scenario: Anticipate questions about how you handle objections, close sales, and build long-term customer relationships. Be ready to share specific examples from your experience.

• Product Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with Bassett's product offerings, customization options, and key selling points. Be prepared to discuss how you would present these to customers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical application of design and sales skills, alongside cultural fit. The portfolio review is critical, so candidates should prepare compelling examples that demonstrate both their design talent and their ability to drive revenue. The "mock consultation" and "design presentation" are likely key components of the assessment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Proficiency with Customer Relationship Management software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or a proprietary system) for managing leads, customer interactions, sales pipelines, and follow-ups.

• Design Software: Familiarity with design visualization tools, CAD software, or specialized interior design platforms (e.g., SketchUp, AutoCAD, Chief Architect, or proprietary Bassett design tools) for creating floor plans, 3D renderings, and mood boards.

• Microsoft Office Suite/Google Workspace: Competency in Word/Docs, Excel/Sheets, and PowerPoint/Slides for proposal creation, data analysis, presentations, and general business communication.

• Communication Platforms: Experience with email, instant messaging (e.g., Slack, Teams), and video conferencing tools (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet) for internal communication and virtual client appointments.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Reporting Tools: Ability to access and interpret sales reports, performance dashboards, and key performance indicators (KPIs) related to individual sales, conversion rates, and customer acquisition costs.

• Data Analysis Basics: Understanding how to track personal sales metrics and identify trends to optimize sales strategies.

CRM & Automation:

• Order Management Systems: Experience with systems used for processing sales orders, managing inventory, and tracking order fulfillment.

• Virtual Appointment Tools: Familiarity with platforms that facilitate online consultations, screen sharing, and digital presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software names aren't provided, the role implies the need for proficiency in CRM, design visualization tools, and standard office productivity software. The ability to conduct virtual appointments suggests familiarity with relevant communication and presentation technologies. Candidates should highlight any experience with systems that support consultative sales and design processes.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A paramount value, emphasizing understanding and exceeding customer expectations through personalized service and design solutions.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Maintaining high ethical standards in sales practices and professional conduct, reflecting the brand's long-standing reputation.

• Passion for Design: A genuine enthusiasm for interior design, home furnishings, and helping clients create beautiful, functional spaces.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Supporting colleagues, sharing knowledge, and contributing to a positive and productive showroom environment.

• Results Orientation: A drive to achieve sales goals and contribute to the company's financial success through effective selling and client management.

• Continuous Learning: A commitment to staying updated on design trends, product knowledge, and sales techniques to enhance personal and team performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Consultative & Supportive: Team members are encouraged to support each other in client interactions and share best practices for design and sales.

• Data-Informed: Sales strategies and decisions are often informed by performance metrics and customer feedback.

• Client-Centric: All collaborative efforts are ultimately geared towards providing an exceptional client experience and driving sales.

• Proactive Communication: Open communication channels are vital for coordinating client appointments, managing inventory, and resolving any issues that may arise.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett's culture, as implied by its history and job description, likely values professionalism, customer dedication, and a passion for home furnishings. The "relationship selling" aspect suggests a culture that encourages building genuine connections with clients and fostering a supportive team environment where consultants can learn from each other.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income Variability: The primary challenge is managing income fluctuations inherent in a commission-based sales role, requiring consistent high performance and effective lead generation.

• High Customer Expectations: Meeting the diverse and often complex design needs and budget constraints of a wide range of customers.

• Staying Current: Continuously updating knowledge on design trends, product lines, and competitive offerings in the fast-paced furniture industry.

• Balancing Sales & Design: Effectively integrating consultative sales techniques with genuine design expertise to provide value beyond a transactional sale.

• Travel Requirements: Ability to travel to customer residences for consultations and makeovers, requiring time management and logistical planning.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Interior Design Certification: Bassett offers its own certification program, providing a structured path to developing and validating design skills.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Ongoing training on new collections, materials, customization options, and furniture construction.

• Sales Technique Enhancement: Development of advanced consultative selling, negotiation, and client management skills.

• Showroom Operations: Gaining understanding of retail operations, inventory management, and visual merchandising.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced sales professionals and management within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for high-performing sales roles in the retail sector, particularly those involving specialized knowledge like interior design. The growth opportunities are clearly defined, with a focus on both skill development (design certification) and career progression within the company's sales and management structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a time you successfully helped a client achieve their design vision within a specific budget." (Focus on your consultative process, problem-solving, and ability to manage expectations.)

• "How do you approach building long-term relationships with customers in a retail setting?" (Highlight your proactive communication, follow-up strategies, and commitment to post-sale service.)

• "Describe a challenging sales situation you faced and how you overcame it." (Showcase your resilience, problem-solving skills, and ability to handle objections.)

• "How do you stay updated on interior design trends and new furniture products?" (Demonstrate your passion for the industry and commitment to continuous learning.)

• "Imagine a client wants a modern look but has a traditional home. How would you bridge that gap?" (Assess your design adaptability and ability to integrate styles thoughtfully.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Bassett Furniture specifically?" (Research their history, values, product lines, and mention what resonates with you.)

• "How do you see yourself contributing to our showroom's team culture?" (Emphasize your collaborative spirit, positive attitude, and willingness to support colleagues.)

• "What are your thoughts on working in a commission-based sales environment?" (Express your motivation, understanding of performance-based compensation, and confidence in your ability to succeed.)

• "How do you handle working weekends and holidays?" (Show flexibility and an understanding of retail operational needs.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with Impact: Begin with a highlight reel of your most successful projects, focusing on both design execution and sales outcomes.

• Walk Through a Case Study: Select 1-2 detailed case studies to illustrate your entire process, from initial client contact to final design implementation and satisfaction.

• Quantify Results: Wherever possible, use numbers to demonstrate your impact (e.g., "increased average sale value by X%", "achieved Y% of sales target").

• Showcase Design Versatility: Include examples that demonstrate your ability to work with different styles, budgets, and client needs.

• Be Ready for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, sales tactics, and how you managed specific client challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of sales prowess, design creativity, and customer-centricity. Candidates should be ready to speak to their performance metrics, their design process, and their understanding of Bassett's brand and values. The interview process is likely designed to assess both technical skills and interpersonal effectiveness.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on jobs.dayforcehcm.com.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant sales achievements, customer relationship management experience, and any interior design qualifications or experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "design consultant," "sales," "customer relationships," "interior design," and "commission."

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a professional portfolio showcasing your best design projects, sales successes, and client testimonials. Ensure it is easily accessible (e.g., via a link to an online portfolio or a well-organized PDF).

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Bassett Furniture's history, brand values, product lines, and current marketing efforts. Understand their aesthetic and customer base to better articulate your fit.

• Practice Interview Questions: Prepare answers to common sales and design interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that demonstrate your skills and experience. Practice articulating your design process and sales methodology.

⚠️ 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.