DESIGN CONSULTANT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: Bassett Furniture

Location: Columbus, Ohio, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Retail Sales & Design

Date Posted: 2026-09-08T04:00:00

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive sales through expert interior design consultations and personalized customer relationship building within a retail showroom environment.

• Leverage a deep understanding of furniture construction, design trends, and color/texture coordination to create dream room solutions for clients.

• Employ consultative selling techniques and "relationship selling" to foster long-term customer loyalty and maximize selling opportunities.

• Actively manage client portfolios, conduct virtual appointments, and perform in-home design makeovers to enhance customer engagement and drive revenue.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is fundamentally a sales position with a strong emphasis on design expertise. The "Design Consultant" title signifies a specialized sales role focused on high-value, consultative sales within the furniture and interior design sector. The emphasis on "relationship selling" and "clientele" points towards a proactive approach to lead generation and customer retention, typical in commission-based sales roles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong, long-term customer relationships through personalized design consultations and follow-up.

• Conduct comprehensive interior design consultations, assessing customer needs, lifestyle, taste, and budget to recommend appropriate furniture and design solutions.

• Utilize expertise in color theory, texture coordination, and current design trends to create visually appealing and functional room designs.

• Present and sell product and design solutions effectively, translating customer wants into tangible design choices and purchases.

• Manage the sales process from initial customer engagement to final sale, ensuring a seamless and positive customer experience.

• Drive sales performance by consistently meeting or exceeding established sales goals within a commissioned environment.

• Conduct virtual appointments and live chats to engage with customers remotely and expand reach.

• Travel to customers' residences and businesses for in-home design consultations and "makeovers" as needed.

• Develop and maintain a strong knowledge base of Bassett Furniture's product lines, including construction, materials, and customization options.

• Actively participate in team meetings, training sessions, and contribute to a collaborative showroom environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a blend of sales acumen and design proficiency. The emphasis on "relationship selling," "clientele," and "long-term customer relationships" underscores the importance of proactive customer engagement and retention, common in high-commission retail environments. The requirement to travel for "makeovers" and conduct "virtual appointments" indicates a dynamic sales approach that extends beyond the showroom floor.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a background or strong interest in Interior Design, Art, or a related creative field is highly beneficial.

Experience: 2-5 years of proven success in a sales environment, ideally with a focus on consultative selling, clienteling, or interior design. A track record of meeting or exceeding sales goals is critical.

Required Skills:

• Passion for interior design and home furnishings.

• Exceptional sales skills with a proven ability to close deals and meet revenue targets.

• Strong understanding of color theory and texture coordination.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective client interaction.

• Friendly, outgoing, and approachable personality to build rapport quickly.

• Positive outlook and a driven, self-motivated attitude towards achieving goals.

• Proficiency in computer applications for sales, design, and communication (e.g., CRM, design software, email).

• Ability to listen actively and translate customer needs and desires into effective design solutions.

• Polished and professional image suitable for a retail design environment.

• Career-minded professionalism and a commitment to personal and professional growth.

• Willingness to work weekends and holidays as required by retail operations.

• Desire to work in a commissioned sales environment, understanding income potential is tied to performance.

• Ability to collaborate effectively as a supportive team member.

• Adaptability to thrive in a varied-paced retail setting.

• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to client locations for in-home consultations. Preferred Skills:

• Formal training or certification in Interior Design.

• Experience with specific design software or visualization tools.

• Familiarity with CRM systems for managing customer interactions and sales pipelines.

• Experience in the furniture or home decor industry.

• Demonstrated ability to conduct effective virtual consultations and utilize digital communication tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of sales drive, design aptitude, and interpersonal skills. The "proven track record of success in sales" and "highly driven to meet or exceed sales goals" are key indicators of a performance-oriented role. The "desire to work in a commissioned sales environment" is a critical expectation, suggesting that compensation is heavily performance-based.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 detailed case studies demonstrating successful interior design projects from concept to completion.

• For each case study, clearly outline the client's initial needs and challenges, your proposed design solution, and the final outcome.

• Include visual elements such as mood boards, floor plans, 3D renderings (if applicable), and high-quality "before and after" photos of completed spaces.

• Quantify results where possible, such as increased customer satisfaction, successful integration of specific product lines, or achievement of client's aesthetic and functional goals.

• Document your process for client needs assessment, design ideation, product selection, and presentation. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate understanding of the consultative sales process, from initial customer engagement to closing the sale and post-sale follow-up.

• Illustrate your approach to understanding customer preferences, translating them into design choices, and presenting them persuasively.

• Provide examples of how you manage multiple client projects simultaneously, ensuring deadlines and customer expectations are met.

• Detail your methods for utilizing showroom resources, product samples, and design tools to create compelling client presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a "portfolio requirement" in the original listing, a "Design Consultant" role in a commission-based sales environment with a focus on design transformations necessitates a strong visual and process-oriented portfolio. Candidates should prepare to showcase their design process, client management skills, and sales success through examples of past projects. This is crucial for demonstrating their ability to translate creative vision into tangible sales outcomes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The potential income for experienced Bassett Design Consultants averages $70,000-$105,000 annually. Top performers can earn up to $135,000+ per year. This structure is based on a generous commission-based compensation plan, with additional bonus opportunities.

Benefits:

• Paid training program designed to enhance product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills.

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.

• Disability insurance.

• Life insurance.

• 401(k) plan for retirement savings.

• Tuition assistance for continued education.

• Paid time off (PTO) for work-life balance.

• Generous employee discounts on Bassett Furniture products.

• Opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art showroom.

• Potential for growth and advancement within the company. Working Hours:

The role requires a willingness to work weekends and holidays, typical for a retail environment. The exact number of hours may vary based on business needs and customer traffic, but the expectation is for a full-time commitment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is a strong indicator of a commission-heavy compensation structure. The $70,000-$105,000 average and up to $135,000+ for top writers suggest that success is directly tied to sales volume and effectiveness in consultative selling. This is typical for roles where the base salary is minimal or non-existent, with the majority of earnings coming from commissions and potential bonuses. The listed benefits are comprehensive for a full-time retail sales position.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail & Home Furnishings. Bassett Furniture operates in a competitive market, emphasizing quality, customization, and customer experience.

Company Size: With a history dating back to 1902, Bassett Furniture is a well-established brand. While specific employee numbers aren't provided in the raw data, its presence across multiple locations and its long-standing reputation suggest a medium-to-large enterprise with a structured corporate environment and a strong retail footprint.

Founded: 1902. Bassett Furniture has a rich heritage, emphasizing craftsmanship, quality, and innovation in furniture retailing for over a century. This long history points to a stable company culture that values tradition while adapting to modern retail practices.

Team Structure:

• The Design Consultant role is part of the retail sales team within a specific showroom location.

• Likely operates within a hierarchical structure common in retail, reporting to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager.

• Collaboration is expected with other sales associates, design staff, and potentially store operations personnel.

• Cross-functional interaction with corporate marketing, design, and product development teams might occur indirectly through established company processes and training. Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Sales: The primary methodology is "relationship selling," focusing on understanding and meeting customer needs through personalized design consultations and tailored solutions.

• Design-Driven Approach: Emphasizes the use of design principles, trends, and product knowledge to create value and drive sales.

• Performance-Oriented: The commissioned compensation structure drives a strong focus on achieving and exceeding sales targets.

• Continuous Learning: The company invests in training programs covering product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills, fostering a culture of ongoing development.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett Furniture's long history (since 1902) suggests a company with established processes and a deep understanding of the furniture retail market. The culture likely balances a tradition of craftsmanship with a forward-looking approach to innovation in retail and design. The emphasis on "relationship selling" and "interior design certification training" indicates a commitment to developing skilled professionals who can provide high-value services to customers.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level, client-facing sales professional within the retail operations of Bassett Furniture. It requires a blend of sales expertise, design sensibility, and customer service skills. It's a direct contributor role focused on revenue generation through consultative sales.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager, who oversees daily operations, sales performance, and team development within a specific retail location. This structure allows for direct oversight and coaching.

Operations Impact: The primary impact of this role is direct revenue generation for the company through furniture sales. By building strong customer relationships and providing expert design advice, Design Consultants contribute to customer loyalty, repeat business, and brand reputation. Their success directly influences the profitability and performance of their assigned showroom.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Specialization: Advance to Senior Design Consultant roles, taking on more complex projects or mentoring junior staff.

• Leadership Development: Progress into Showroom Management or Sales Management positions, overseeing teams and driving overall store performance.

• Design Expertise: Pursue further interior design certifications or specialize in specific product categories or design styles.

• Cross-Functional Roles: Potential opportunities in corporate roles related to sales training, product development, or visual merchandising, leveraging their deep understanding of customer needs and market trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Design Consultant at Bassett Furniture is clearly geared towards growth within sales and management roles. The provided information suggests that the company actively supports professional development through training and offers clear advancement opportunities. The emphasis on "career-minded professionalism" implies that Bassett views these roles as long-term career opportunities rather than just transactional jobs.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a retail showroom environment. Expect a professionally designed, customer-facing space showcasing Bassett Furniture's product lines. The atmosphere is intended to be inspiring and conducive to design consultations.

Office Location(s): The specific role is located in Columbus, Ohio. Bassett Furniture operates numerous showrooms across the United States, providing a broad geographic reach.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Showroom: While individual client consultations are key, the showroom is a shared space where team members interact, share insights, and support each other.

• Design Tools & Technology: Access to design software, product catalogs, sample materials (fabrics, finishes), and potentially virtual reality or visualization tools. A computer for CRM, order processing, and communication is standard.

• Customer Interaction Hub: The primary workspace is dedicated to engaging with customers, conducting design discussions, and facilitating the sales process. This includes dedicated consultation areas and the showroom floor itself.

Work Schedule: The role requires flexibility to work weekends and holidays, as this is standard for retail operations. The schedule will likely be structured around showroom operating hours and customer traffic patterns, often involving full-time commitment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is customer-centric and sales-driven. The "state-of-the-art showroom" implies a modern, well-equipped retail space designed to enhance the customer experience and facilitate design consultations. The need to work weekends and holidays is a critical aspect of the retail environment that applicants must be prepared for.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a phone or video call to assess basic qualifications, enthusiasm for design, and sales aptitude.

• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth discussion at the showroom, potentially involving a tour and introduction to the team. This stage will focus on assessing personality, communication skills, and sales drive.

• Design Challenge/Portfolio Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio of past design work or complete a design-related task. This is critical for evaluating design skills, problem-solving abilities, and how effectively they can translate client needs into design solutions.

• Sales Scenario Role-Playing: The interviewer might present a customer scenario to gauge the candidate's consultative selling approach.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with the Showroom Manager or a higher-level executive to discuss career aspirations and finalize the offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Visual Storytelling: Present your portfolio as a narrative of your design process and client success. Clearly articulate the problem, your solution, and the results.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use data or metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., customer satisfaction scores, repeat business generated, sales conversion rates).

• Process Clarity: Detail your step-by-step approach to client consultations, from initial needs assessment to final presentation and closing.

• Showcase Versatility: Include a range of projects that demonstrate your ability to work with different styles, budgets, and client needs.

• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate, whether digital or physical.

• Tailor to Bassett: Highlight projects or aspects of your work that align with Bassett's brand, style, and commitment to quality and customization.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach common design challenges, such as working with small spaces, limited budgets, or clients with conflicting tastes.

• Sales Scenarios: Practice responding to typical sales objections and demonstrating how you would guide a hesitant customer towards a purchase.

• Product Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with Bassett Furniture's product lines, customization options, and key selling points.

• Company Research: Understand Bassett's history, brand values, and current market position.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, the interview process will heavily weigh a candidate's ability to sell and design. A strong portfolio is not just a nice-to-have but a critical component of demonstrating readiness for this sales-focused design role. The "relationship selling" aspect means interviewers will look for empathy, active listening, and the ability to build trust.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: For managing customer interactions, tracking leads, sales pipelines, and customer follow-up (e.g., Salesforce, or a proprietary system like Bassett's own).

• Design Software: Tools for creating mood boards, floor plans, 3D renderings, and visualizations (e.g., SketchUp, AutoCAD, Chief Architect, or specialized interior design software).

• Point-of-Sale (POS) / Order Management System: To process sales transactions, manage orders, and track inventory.

• Communication Platforms: Email, internal messaging systems, and potentially video conferencing tools for virtual appointments and team communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: To track individual sales metrics, conversion rates, average transaction value, and goal attainment.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Reports: To analyze customer data, identify trends, and segment customer bases for targeted outreach.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM: Essential for clienteling, managing follow-ups, and building a loyal customer base.

• Potential Automation: While not explicitly mentioned, basic automation within CRM for follow-up reminders or email campaigns might be utilized.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with CRM systems is paramount for success in this client-focused, commission-based role. The ability to leverage design software effectively for client presentations is also a key technical requirement. Familiarity with retail POS systems is also expected.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and building lasting relationships through exceptional service and design expertise.

• Sales Excellence: A drive to achieve and exceed sales targets through consultative selling and a passion for the product.

• Design Passion: A genuine interest in interior design, aesthetics, and helping clients create beautiful, functional spaces.

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

• Professionalism: Maintaining a polished image, exhibiting strong work ethic, and demonstrating career-mindedness.

• Innovation: Embracing new design trends, sales techniques, and company training to continuously improve.

Collaboration Style:

• Showroom Synergy: Working collaboratively within the showroom to greet customers, share leads, and support each other's sales efforts.

• Cross-functional Support: Liaising with store management for operational needs, customer issue resolution, and performance feedback.

• Knowledge Sharing: Openness to sharing design ideas, sales strategies, and product insights with fellow team members.

• Feedback Loop: Actively participating in coaching sessions and performance reviews to foster continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett Furniture's culture appears to be built around a combination of traditional retail values (customer service, sales drive) and a specialization in design. The emphasis on "relationship selling" and "passion for design" suggests a culture that encourages genuine connection with clients and creative expression. The long history of the company also implies a degree of stability and established professional norms.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income Volatility: Performance-dependent income can be inconsistent, requiring strong sales discipline and resilience during slower periods.

• Managing Diverse Client Needs: Catering to a wide range of tastes, budgets, and personalities requires strong adaptability and problem-solving skills.

• Staying Current with Trends: The fast-paced world of interior design demands continuous learning to stay abreast of evolving styles, materials, and technologies.

• Balancing Sales Pressure with Design Creativity: Effectively merging the quantitative demands of sales goals with the qualitative aspects of creative design.

• Travel Requirements: The necessity of visiting client homes for consultations may present logistical challenges.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Bassett Interior Design Certification: A structured program to develop advanced design skills and product knowledge, leading to professional certification.

• Sales Training Programs: Ongoing training in consultative selling, negotiation, and customer relationship management.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Deep dives into furniture construction, materials, customization options, and new collections.

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

• Career Advancement: Clear pathways to senior sales roles or management positions within the Bassett retail network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a high-performance, commission-based sales role in a creative industry. The growth opportunities, particularly the "Bassett Interior Design certification training," are significant and directly tied to enhancing the skills required for success in this role and for future advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to building rapport with a new customer in a retail showroom." (Focus on active listening, asking open-ended questions, and understanding their needs beyond just immediate product interest.)

• "Walk me through a challenging interior design project you managed. What were the obstacles, and how did you overcome them to achieve a successful outcome for the client?" (Prepare a case study that highlights problem-solving, creativity, and client satisfaction.)

• "How do you stay motivated and meet sales targets in a commission-based environment, especially during slower sales periods?" (Emphasize proactivity, clienteling, goal setting, and continuous learning.)

• "Imagine a client is hesitant about a particular fabric choice for their sofa due to concerns about durability. How would you address their concerns and guide them towards a confident decision?" (Demonstrate product knowledge, empathy, and consultative selling techniques.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about Bassett Furniture and this Design Consultant role specifically?" (Research Bassett's history, values, and product offerings. Connect your passion for design and sales to the company's mission.)

• "How do you see yourself contributing to our showroom team and fostering a positive customer experience?" (Highlight your collaborative spirit, customer-centric approach, and enthusiasm for design.)

• "Describe a time you had to adapt your design recommendations to fit a client's budget or specific constraints. What was your strategy?" (Show your ability to balance creativity with practicality and client financial realities.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly state the client's objective, your design process, the key products/solutions you proposed, and the final result.

• Highlight Key Skills: Ensure your presentation implicitly or explicitly demonstrates your skills in color coordination, space planning, product knowledge, and customer needs assessment.

• Quantify Success: If possible, include metrics like "increased client satisfaction," "successful integration of X product lines," or "achieved client's desired aesthetic within budget."

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, challenges encountered, and how you managed client expectations.

• Showcase Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for design and helping clients shine through your presentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation should focus on showcasing a blend of sales acumen and design talent. Candidates should be ready to articulate their sales process, demonstrate their design thinking, and provide concrete examples of their successes through case studies and portfolio presentations. Understanding Bassett's brand and commitment to quality will be crucial for demonstrating cultural fit.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

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

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a digital portfolio showcasing 2-3 of your most impactful interior design projects. For each project, clearly outline the client's needs, your design approach, the products selected, and the final outcome. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant sales experience, design skills (color theory, texture coordination, trends), customer relationship management, and any experience with consultative selling or clienteling. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your sales process, design philosophy, and how you handle client interactions. Prepare specific examples for behavioral questions and be ready to present your portfolio confidently. Research Bassett Furniture's history, product lines, and brand values.

• Company Research: Gain a thorough understanding of Bassett Furniture's market position, its commitment to quality and customization, and its customer-centric approach. Familiarize yourself with their showroom experience and product offerings.

⚠️ 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.