DESIGN CONSULTANT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: DESIGN CONSULTANT

Company: Bassett Furniture

Location: Irvine, California, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Sales & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-18T04:00:00

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead customer engagement through personalized interior design consultations, focusing on building lasting client relationships.

• Drive revenue growth by leveraging comprehensive knowledge of furniture construction, design trends, and color/texture coordination to meet and exceed sales targets.

• Execute a "relationship selling" methodology, transforming customer visions into tangible design solutions and room makeovers.

• Actively participate in a commission-based sales environment, utilizing virtual and in-person client interactions to maximize selling opportunities within a state-of-the-art showroom.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Design Consultant," is fundamentally a sales-driven position within a retail operations context. The emphasis on "relationship selling," exceeding sales goals, and a commission-based compensation structure are key indicators. The operations aspect lies in managing the customer journey from initial consultation through to sale, requiring meticulous clienteling and a deep understanding of product and design application.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth interior design consultations with clients to understand their aesthetic preferences, lifestyle needs, and budgetary considerations.

• Develop and present comprehensive design solutions, including furniture selections, fabric choices, and layout recommendations, tailored to individual client requirements.

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

• Perform in-home or virtual makeovers, assessing existing spaces and providing expert advice for optimal furniture placement and style integration.

• Maintain a deep and current understanding of furniture construction, design trends, color theory, and textile properties to offer informed recommendations.

• Proactively manage a sales pipeline, track customer interactions, and follow up on leads to ensure conversion and maximize sales opportunities.

• Collaborate with internal teams, such as design support or delivery, to ensure a seamless customer experience from sale to fulfillment.

• Stay abreast of product offerings, promotions, and design services to effectively communicate value propositions to potential clients.

• Contribute to showroom merchandising and visual presentation to enhance the overall customer shopping experience and highlight design possibilities.

• Engage in continuous learning through company-provided training programs to enhance product knowledge, sales acumen, and design expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw description focuses heavily on the design and sales aspects, the operational components involve managing client data, tracking sales performance against targets, coordinating with fulfillment, and contributing to the overall retail environment. The role requires a blend of creative problem-solving and disciplined execution of sales processes.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a background or strong interest in Interior Design, Fashion Merchandising, Art, or a related creative field is highly beneficial. Completion of Bassett's Interior Design certification training is a key development opportunity.

Experience: A proven track record of success in sales, particularly in a commissioned or client-facing environment, is essential. Experience in retail sales, furniture sales, or interior design is strongly preferred. A minimum of 2-5 years of relevant sales or design experience is recommended for this mid-level role.

Required Skills:

• Passion for Design: Genuine enthusiasm for interior design, color, and style.

• Sales Acumen: Proven ability to meet or exceed sales goals in a commissioned environment; experience with "relationship selling" and clienteling.

• Color and Texture Coordination: Discernment and skill in selecting and coordinating colors, patterns, and textures for cohesive designs.

• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional ability to listen, articulate ideas clearly, and build rapport with diverse clientele.

• Customer Needs Assessment: Adept at understanding and translating customer wants, lifestyle, and budget into actionable design choices.

• Computer Proficiency: Familiarity with standard office software and the ability to learn proprietary CRM and design tools.

• Self-Motivation & Drive: A proactive and self-directed approach to client engagement and sales targets.

• Positive Outlook & Professionalism: Friendly, outgoing personality with a polished image and career-minded professionalism.

• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a varied-paced retail environment and adapt to customer needs.

• Team Collaboration: Dedicated to being a supportive and contributing member of the sales team.

Preferred Skills:

• Virtual Selling Proficiency: Experience conducting virtual appointments and live chats for sales consultations.

• Product Knowledge: Existing knowledge of furniture construction, materials, and manufacturing processes.

• Design Software Familiarity: Exposure to design visualization or CRM software used in retail sales.

• Clientele Development: Demonstrated ability to build and nurture a loyal customer base.

• Home Makeover Experience: Practical experience in planning and executing home design transformations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "proven track record of success in sales" and the mention of "commissioned sales environment" strongly suggest that candidates with demonstrable sales achievements will be prioritized. The "desire to learn" and "career-minded professionalism" indicate a need for candidates who are coachable and invested in long-term growth within the company.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Sales Achievement Documentation: Evidence of consistently meeting or exceeding sales targets, ideally presented with quantifiable results (e.g., revenue generated, conversion rates).

• Design Consultation Case Studies: Examples of successful client projects, showcasing the process from initial needs assessment to final design solution and sale. Highlight how customer wants were translated into design choices.

• Customer Relationship Management Examples: Demonstration of how you build and maintain client relationships, potentially including examples of follow-up strategies or loyalty programs implemented.

• Visual Design Examples: A curated selection of past design projects, mood boards, or space plans that illustrate your eye for color, texture, and style, and your ability to create cohesive aesthetics.

Process Documentation:

• Client Engagement Workflow: Outline the typical steps you take when engaging a new client, from initial contact through the sales cycle, including how you gather information and present solutions.

• Sales Process Optimization: If applicable, describe any instances where you identified inefficiencies in a sales process and implemented improvements to enhance customer experience or sales outcomes.

• Performance Tracking & Analysis: Examples of how you track your own sales performance, identify areas for improvement, and utilize data to inform your sales strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the sales and design focus, a portfolio should highlight both quantitative sales success and qualitative design capabilities. A process-oriented approach to client engagement and sales cycle management is crucial for demonstrating operational understanding within a sales context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The provided salary information indicates a base hourly rate of $25. However, the role is primarily commission-based with significant earning potential. Experienced Design Consultants are projected to average $70,000 - $105,000 per year, with top performers potentially earning up to $135,000+ per year.

Benefits:

• Paid Training: Comprehensive initial and ongoing training programs, including product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills.

• Health Insurance: Health, Dental, and Vision coverage options available.

• Disability Insurance: Coverage to provide financial support in case of disability.

• Life Insurance: Financial protection for beneficiaries.

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

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

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

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

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

• Opportunity for Growth: Clear pathways for advancement within the company.

Working Hours: The role requires a willingness to work weekends and holidays. While specific daily hours are not detailed, a full-time commitment (approximately 40 hours per week) is expected, with flexibility to accommodate customer appointments and showroom operating hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is heavily weighted towards commission, requiring candidates to be highly motivated by performance-based earnings. The provided salary range of $70,000-$135,000+ is a strong indicator of the expected earning potential for successful candidates, reflecting a robust commission plan. The research methodology for this estimate is based on the provided text stating "The potential income for our experienced Bassett Design Consultants averages $70,000-$105,000/year. With our corporate top writers making up to 135,000/year." The $25/hour is likely a draw or base, with commission being the primary driver of total compensation.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail, Home Furnishings, Interior Design Services. Bassett Furniture operates within a competitive market, emphasizing quality craftsmanship, customization, and value.

Company Size: Bassett Furniture Industries has been a recognized brand for over a century, indicating a stable and established organization. While the exact current employee count isn't provided in the raw data, its long-standing presence suggests a significant operational footprint. Roles within such companies often offer structured environments with clear processes.

Founded: Since 1902. This long heritage underscores a deep-rooted commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, influencing a culture that values experience and tradition alongside innovation.

Team Structure:

• Sales Team Focus: The role is embedded within a retail sales team, likely led by a Sales Manager or Showroom Manager. Team members are typically independent in their client interactions but collaborate on showroom presentation and customer service.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Design Consultants will interact with various departments, including potentially design support staff, delivery/logistics teams, and customer service, to ensure a cohesive client experience.

• Performance-Oriented Environment: The culture is described as "positive and motivated," with a strong emphasis on meeting and exceeding sales goals, indicating a performance-driven yet supportive atmosphere.

Methodology:

• Relationship Selling: The core approach emphasizes building long-term customer relationships through personalized service and design expertise.

• Data-Driven Clienteling: While not explicitly stated, successful sales professionals in this environment likely utilize CRM tools to track customer interactions, preferences, and sales history to personalize engagement.

• Continuous Improvement: The emphasis on training, learning, and professional development suggests a culture that encourages ongoing skill enhancement and adaptation to market trends.

Company Website: [Bassett Furniture Website URL would be inserted here if available. Assuming https://www.bassettfurniture.com/]

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's founding date (1902) and long-standing reputation suggest a culture that balances tradition with modern retail strategies. The "state-of-the-art showroom" implies an investment in the physical retail experience, which is crucial for a design consultant role.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level Sales and Design position. It requires a blend of established sales skills and developing design expertise. It is a client-facing role with direct revenue responsibility.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager. This structure provides direct oversight, coaching, and performance management within the retail environment.

Operations Impact: The primary impact of this role is direct revenue generation through successful sales conversions. Beyond individual sales, successful Design Consultants contribute to customer loyalty, brand reputation, and the overall success of the retail showroom by driving traffic and creating positive customer experiences. Their design recommendations also influence product sales mix.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Leadership: Progression to roles like Senior Design Consultant, Sales Lead, or Showroom Manager, involving team leadership and greater sales strategy input.

• Design Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific design areas, potentially leading to specialized consultant roles or advanced design certification.

• Training & Development: Continuous learning through Bassett's comprehensive training programs, including interior design certification, product knowledge updates, and advanced sales techniques.

• Cross-Departmental Exposure: Potential to move into related roles within merchandising, visual display, or even management roles within the broader retail operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path outlined suggests that success in this role can lead to both increased sales responsibility and management opportunities. The emphasis on "career-minded professionalism" indicates that Bassett is looking for individuals who see this as a long-term career, not just a job.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a retail showroom environment. The "state-of-the-art showroom" suggests a modern, well-designed, and customer-centric space that serves as the primary workspace for design consultations and sales activities.

Office Location(s): Irvine, California. This specific location is a key hub for this role, likely featuring a significant retail footprint and customer base.

Workspace Context:

• Customer-Centric Design: The workspace is designed to inspire customers and facilitate design exploration, featuring product displays, fabric swatches, and design tools.

• Collaborative Showroom Floor: While consultants work independently with clients, the showroom floor encourages interaction with colleagues, sharing insights, and supporting a cohesive team effort.

• Technology Integration: The role requires computer proficiency and likely involves using showroom technology for design visualization, CRM, and order processing.

Work Schedule: The role requires flexibility, including willingness to work weekends and holidays. This is typical for retail environments that aim to serve customers throughout the week. A full-time commitment is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "state-of-the-art showroom" is a significant aspect of the work environment, implying a focus on visual merchandising and creating an immersive customer experience. Candidates should be comfortable working in such a dynamic, customer-facing setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of the application and resume, focusing on sales experience, design passion, and alignment with required qualifications.

• First Interview: May be with a Sales Manager or HR representative to assess personality, communication skills, sales aptitude, and basic design interest. This could involve behavioral questions and scenario-based inquiries.

• Second Interview/Design Challenge: This stage might involve a more in-depth discussion about design philosophy, a presentation of portfolio work, or a simulated design consultation. Candidates may be asked to demonstrate their ability to coordinate colors and textures or solve a design problem.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a Showroom Manager or District Manager to finalize the offer, discuss compensation in detail, and assess overall fit with the company culture and team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Sales Achievements: For sales roles, concrete numbers are crucial. Showcase revenue generated, conversion rates, average transaction value, and any awards or recognition for sales performance.

• Showcase Design Process: For design aspects, don't just show finished products. Illustrate your process: how you understand client needs, develop concepts, select materials, and present solutions. Use mood boards, sketches, or digital renderings.

• Highlight Relationship Building: Include examples of how you've built and maintained client relationships, demonstrating your commitment to long-term customer engagement and loyalty.

• Tailor to Bassett: Research Bassett's style and product offerings. If possible, include projects or ideas that align with their brand aesthetic. Emphasize your ability to translate customer wants into designs that fit Bassett's offerings.

• Demonstrate Adaptability: Show your ability to work with different client styles, budgets, and needs, as well as your comfort with virtual and in-person consultations.

Challenge Preparation:

• Simulated Consultation: Be prepared to walk through a hypothetical client consultation. Practice asking probing questions to understand needs, presenting solutions, and handling objections.

• Color/Texture Exercise: Familiarize yourself with color theory and fabric properties. Be ready to discuss how you would combine different elements to create a desired aesthetic.

• Sales Pitch Practice: Prepare to articulate your sales philosophy and how you approach closing a sale, particularly within a commission structure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely heavily weigh sales performance and the ability to translate design concepts into tangible sales. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate both their creative flair and their commercial acumen.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Essential for managing customer interactions, tracking leads, sales pipeline management, and clienteling. (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or a proprietary system).

• Design Software: Tools for creating mood boards, 3D renderings, or space plans to visualize design concepts for clients. (e.g., SketchUp, AutoCAD, Chief Architect, or specialized retail design software).

• Point of Sale (POS) / Order Management System: For processing sales transactions, managing orders, and tracking inventory.

• Communication Platforms: Email, phone systems, and potentially video conferencing tools (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams) for virtual appointments and internal communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: Tools that track individual and showroom sales metrics, conversion rates, and revenue against targets.

• CRM Reporting Modules: For analyzing customer data, sales trends, and pipeline health.

CRM & Automation:

• Clienteling Tools: Features within the CRM or standalone applications designed to facilitate personalized customer outreach and relationship management.

• Virtual Appointment Platforms: Software that enables seamless online consultations and product presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, proficiency in CRM systems for sales management and clienteling is a baseline expectation. Familiarity with design visualization tools will be a significant advantage. The ability to adapt to Bassett's specific technology stack will be key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and exceeding customer expectations through personalized service and design solutions.

• Excellence in Sales: A drive to achieve and surpass sales targets through skillful client engagement and product knowledge.

• Design Passion: A genuine enthusiasm for interior design, aesthetics, and creating beautiful, functional spaces.

• Teamwork & Support: A collaborative spirit where team members support each other to achieve collective showroom success.

• Professionalism & Integrity: Maintaining a polished image, ethical sales practices, and a career-minded approach.

• Continuous Learning: A commitment to ongoing development in product knowledge, design trends, and sales techniques.

Collaboration Style:

• Showroom Floor Synergy: While individual client work is primary, a collaborative atmosphere where team members share insights, support each other during busy periods, and contribute to a positive showroom environment.

• Cross-Functional Communication: Open communication with support teams (e.g., delivery, customer service) to ensure seamless execution of customer orders and issue resolution.

• Feedback Culture: An environment where constructive feedback on sales techniques and design approaches is welcomed to foster individual and team growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "positive and motivated professional," "friendly outgoing personality," and "dedicated to being a supportive team member" highlights a culture that values interpersonal skills and a proactive, team-oriented approach alongside individual sales performance.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income Volatility: The primary challenge is managing income fluctuations inherent in a commission-driven sales environment. This requires strong sales performance and effective clienteling.

• Balancing Design Creativity with Sales Goals: Successfully integrating creative design solutions with the practicalities of sales targets and customer budgets.

• Staying Ahead of Design Trends: Continuously updating knowledge of evolving interior design styles, colors, and furniture trends to remain relevant and competitive.

• Managing Diverse Client Needs: Effectively catering to a wide range of customer tastes, lifestyles, and financial capabilities.

• Adapting to Virtual Selling: Mastering the nuances of virtual consultations and online client engagement to maintain effectiveness.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Bassett Interior Design Certification: A unique opportunity to gain formal certification, enhancing credibility and design expertise.

• Advanced Sales Training: Continuous development in consultative selling, negotiation, and client relationship management.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: In-depth training on new collections, materials, and customization options.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced Design Consultants and Sales Managers.

• Career Advancement: Clear pathways to senior roles, leadership positions, or specialized design functions within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Challenges" section highlights areas where candidates must demonstrate resilience and proactive problem-solving. The "Learning & Development" section emphasizes Bassett's commitment to investing in its employees' growth, making it an attractive place for career development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you successfully translated a customer's abstract needs into a concrete design solution. What was your process?" (Focus on your needs assessment, solution development, and client interaction.)

• "How do you approach building long-term relationships with clients in a retail sales environment?" (Highlight clienteling, follow-up, and personalized service strategies.)

• "Imagine a client has a specific budget constraint but wants a high-end look. How would you guide them to achieve their goal?" (Demonstrate problem-solving, negotiation, and creative application of products within financial limits.)

• "How do you stay updated on the latest interior design trends and how do you incorporate them into your sales approach?" (Showcase your passion for design and commitment to continuous learning.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Bassett Furniture's history and brand values?" (Research their heritage since 1902, focus on quality, customization, and value.)

• "How do you see yourself contributing to a positive and collaborative showroom team environment?" (Emphasize teamwork, support, and a positive attitude.)

• "This role involves a commission-based compensation structure. How do you motivate yourself to consistently meet and exceed sales targets?" (Express your drive, goal-orientation, and understanding of performance-based pay.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with Sales Success: Begin by showcasing your strongest sales achievements with quantifiable data.

• Walk Through Design Case Studies: For each design project, explain the client's initial brief, your design process, the challenges you overcame, and the final outcome, emphasizing how it met client needs and drove sales.

• Highlight Relationship Management: Share examples of how you've nurtured client relationships, leading to repeat business or referrals.

• Visual Appeal: Ensure your portfolio is visually appealing, mirroring the aesthetic you would bring to client designs. Use high-quality images and clear, concise descriptions.

• Concise Storytelling: Be prepared to articulate your experience and expertise succinctly, focusing on accomplishments and transferable skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a balance between creative design sensibility and strong, quantifiable sales performance. Candidates must be comfortable discussing both their artistic process and their business acumen.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Craft a compelling resume: Highlight specific sales achievements using numbers and metrics. Clearly articulate your experience in customer service, design consultation, and relationship selling. Tailor your resume to emphasize skills mentioned in the job description, such as color coordination and clienteling.

• Prepare your portfolio: Curate examples of successful sales records and design projects that showcase your ability to meet client needs and drive revenue. Focus on case studies that demonstrate your process from consultation to sale.

• Practice your interview responses: Rehearse answers to common sales and design interview questions, and be ready to present your portfolio and discuss your approach to client engagement and sales targets.

• Research Bassett Furniture: Familiarize yourself with their brand history, product lines, and design aesthetic to articulate why you are a good fit for their company culture and customer base.

⚠️ 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.

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