DESIGN CONSULTANT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: Bassett Furniture

Location: Cherry Hill Township, New Jersey, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Sales / Retail / Design

Date Posted: August 25, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead interior design consultations and makeovers to build and maintain long-term customer relationships.

• Leverage comprehensive knowledge of furniture construction, design trends, and color/texture coordination to drive sales.

• Utilize "relationship selling" techniques to identify customer needs and translate them into compelling design solutions.

• Achieve and exceed sales goals through a commissioned sales environment, focusing on personalized customer experiences.

• Contribute to a dynamic retail environment by creating, presenting, and selling bespoke product and design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and qualifications clearly indicate a sales-focused role within the interior design and furniture retail sector. The emphasis on "selling skills," "sales goals," and "commissioned sales environment" positions this as a hybrid sales and design advisory position.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth interior design consultations, assessing customer tastes, lifestyles, and investment ranges to propose tailored furniture and design solutions.

• Develop and present comprehensive design proposals, including product selections, color palettes, and layout recommendations, to clients.

• Build and nurture a robust client base through proactive outreach, follow-up, and exceptional customer service, fostering repeat business and referrals.

• Master product knowledge across Bassett's extensive furniture lines, understanding construction, materials, customization options, and design aesthetics.

• Drive sales performance by effectively communicating the value proposition of Bassett products and design services, closing deals, and meeting or exceeding individual sales targets.

• Utilize various communication channels, including in-person consultations, virtual appointments, and live chats, to engage with and serve customers effectively.

• Collaborate with showroom teams and management to optimize sales strategies, contribute to visual merchandising, and maintain a professional and inviting showroom environment.

• Travel to customer residences and businesses as needed to conduct on-site design assessments and deliver personalized consultations.

• Stay abreast of current interior design trends, color theory, and market shifts to provide relevant and inspiring design advice.

• Maintain accurate customer records and sales documentation within the company's CRM system and other relevant platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw description highlights "makeovers" and "travel to customers' residences and businesses." This implies a mobile or in-home consultation component that goes beyond typical showroom sales, requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to manage a flexible schedule.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a background or strong interest in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, or a related creative field is highly beneficial. Bassett offers Interior Design certification training, indicating a willingness to invest in developing talent.

Experience: A proven track record in sales, particularly in a commissioned environment, is essential. Experience in retail sales, furniture sales, or interior design consulting is highly preferred. The "2-5 years" experience level suggests candidates should have established sales and customer interaction skills.

Required Skills:

• Passion for Interior Design and a keen eye for color and texture coordination.

• Exceptional sales acumen with a proven ability to meet or exceed sales goals.

• Strong consultative selling skills, adept at active listening and translating customer needs into actionable design solutions.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts clearly and persuasively.

• Friendly, outgoing, and positive personality, fostering a welcoming and engaging customer experience.

• Self-motivated and proactive in client development and relationship building.

• Proficient in computer applications, including CRM systems and general office software.

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

• Ability to travel to customer locations for in-home consultations and "makeovers."

• Dedicated to being a supportive and collaborative team member.

• Polished image and career-minded professionalism. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with virtual appointment tools and live chat platforms for remote customer engagement.

• Familiarity with furniture construction, materials, and manufacturing processes.

• Knowledge of current interior design trends and market dynamics.

• Experience in creating and presenting design proposals.

• Ability to thrive in a varied-paced retail environment, managing multiple client interactions simultaneously.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "relationship selling" and building "long-term customer relationships" suggests that candidates with experience in clienteling or high-touch sales environments will be particularly well-suited for this role. The "polished image" requirement is standard for client-facing roles in luxury or premium retail.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase of successful interior design projects, highlighting before-and-after transformations and the client's satisfaction.

• Examples of design proposals, demonstrating the ability to create cohesive and appealing room layouts, color schemes, and furniture selections.

• Documentation of how design solutions met specific client needs, lifestyle requirements, and budget constraints.

• Evidence of sales success, potentially through anonymized sales figures, client testimonials, or descriptions of closing strategies for complex sales. Process Documentation:

• Outline of a typical client consultation process, from initial engagement to final sale and post-sale follow-up.

• Examples of how customer needs were translated into specific product recommendations and design choices.

• Description of how design tools, such as mood boards, fabric swatches, or 3D rendering (if applicable), were used to enhance client understanding and decision-making.

• Case studies detailing how customer relationships were built and maintained over time, leading to repeat business or referrals.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "Design Consultant" title and the emphasis on client makeovers and personalized solutions, a portfolio demonstrating a strong understanding of the end-to-end customer journey, from initial consultation to final product delivery and satisfaction, will be highly valued. The ability to showcase how design expertise directly led to sales conversion is critical.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The potential income for experienced Bassett Design Consultants averages $70,000-$105,000 annually, with top performers earning up to $135,000 per year. This is based on a generous commission-based compensation plan and potential bonus opportunities.

Benefits:

• Paid training to develop product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills.

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.

• Disability and life insurance policies.

• 401(k) retirement savings plan.

• 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.

• Clear pathways for career growth and advancement within the company.

Working Hours: The role requires a willingness to work weekends and holidays, typical for a retail environment. While specific daily hours are not detailed, a full-time commitment is expected, likely aligning with showroom operating hours and client appointment schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate based on the company's stated potential earnings for experienced consultants. The breakdown of commission and potential bonuses suggests a performance-driven compensation structure. The inclusion of "Tuition assistance" and "Interior Design certification training" indicates a strong commitment to employee development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail & Manufacturing. Bassett Furniture is a long-standing American brand known for its quality custom furniture and a blend of style, comfort, and value. They focus on innovating furniture retailing while maintaining their heritage.

Company Size: Bassett Furniture Industries is a well-established company with a significant presence. While the exact number of employees isn't provided in the raw data, their history (founded in 1902) and national retail footprint suggest a medium to large-sized organization. This implies a structured environment with established processes, but also opportunities for individual impact.

Founded: 1902. This deep history underscores Bassett's reputation for quality craftsmanship and enduring style, providing a strong foundation of brand trust that design consultants can leverage.

Team Structure:

• The operations team likely consists of showroom managers, sales associates (Design Consultants), and potentially design support staff.

• Reporting structure would typically be to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager.

• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with other sales associates, design specialists, and potentially logistics or customer service departments to ensure a seamless customer experience. Methodology:

• Emphasis on "relationship selling" and building long-term customer relationships.

• Data-driven approach to understanding customer needs and preferences.

• Focus on personalized design solutions and customer satisfaction.

• Continuous learning and development through structured training programs and ongoing coaching.

Company Website: BassettFurniture.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and commitment to innovation suggest a culture that values both tradition and forward-thinking. The focus on "people who shape the customers' experience" highlights the importance of customer-centricity within the organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-level sales and design advisory position. It's a client-facing role where individual performance directly impacts earnings and career progression. It sits within the retail sales and design track.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager who oversees daily operations, sales performance, and team development.

Operations Impact: Design Consultants have a direct impact on revenue generation through their sales activities. They also influence customer loyalty and brand perception through their design expertise and customer service. By driving sales and fostering strong client relationships, they contribute significantly to the company's overall financial success and market position in the home furnishings sector.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Specialization: Advance to senior Design Consultant roles, potentially specializing in high-end clients or specific design styles.

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

• Design Expertise: Become a certified Bassett Interior Designer, deepening expertise and potentially taking on more complex design projects or training roles.

• Cross-Functional Moves: Opportunities may exist in areas like visual merchandising, sales training, or even product development, leveraging their deep understanding of customer needs and market trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The stated "Opportunity for growth and advancement" and the emphasis on training and development suggest that Bassett is invested in employee career paths. The potential for high earnings through commission also signifies that high performers are rewarded and can achieve significant financial success.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The primary work environment is a state-of-the-art Bassett Furniture showroom. This is a retail setting designed to showcase furniture and inspire customers. In addition to the showroom, the role involves client visits to residences and businesses.

Office Location(s): Cherry Hill Township, New Jersey. This specific location is a retail showroom.

Workspace Context:

• The showroom environment is designed to be visually appealing, collaborative, and customer-focused, featuring inspiring room displays and product samples.

• Access to design resources, product catalogs, and likely a company-provided CRM and design software.

• Opportunities for collaboration with fellow Design Consultants and showroom management, fostering a supportive sales team dynamic.

• The role also involves off-site work, requiring adaptability to different client environments.

Work Schedule: The role requires flexibility, including willingness to work weekends and holidays, which are peak shopping times in retail. The exact daily schedule will likely align with showroom operating hours and client appointment availability, with potential for adjustments based on sales activities and client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "State-of-the Art Showroom" mention suggests a modern, well-equipped retail space that enhances the customer browsing and design experience, which is crucial for a design consultant role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• In-Person Interview/Audition: This may involve a more in-depth discussion of sales experience, design philosophy, and potentially a role-playing scenario or presentation of a design concept.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will be expected to present their portfolio, showcasing relevant design projects, sales achievements, and client relationship management skills.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a regional manager or senior leadership to discuss career aspirations and finalize the offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Impact: Clearly articulate the problem, your solution (design and sales strategy), and the positive outcome (client satisfaction, sales conversion, relationship longevity).

• Visual Appeal: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually engaging, and easy to navigate. Use high-quality images of your work.

• Quantify Results: Where possible, use numbers to demonstrate your sales success (e.g., average sale value, conversion rates, client retention).

• Tailor to Bassett: Highlight projects or experiences that align with Bassett's brand, style, and customer base. Emphasize your passion for furniture and interior design.

• Process Clarity: Be prepared to walk through your typical design and sales process, explaining your approach to client engagement and needs assessment.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you handle challenging clients or objections.

• Prepare examples of how you've successfully translated a client's vague ideas into a concrete design.

• Understand Bassett's product lines and current design trends to demonstrate your preparedness.

• Practice articulating your sales pitch and design philosophy concisely.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the sales-heavy nature of this role, interviewers will likely focus on assessing a candidate's ability to close deals and build rapport. The portfolio should therefore emphasize not just design aesthetics but also the tangible business results achieved.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: For managing customer information, tracking sales activities, and nurturing client relationships. (Specific CRM not mentioned, but proficiency in common systems like Salesforce, HubSpot, or a proprietary retail CRM is expected).

• Design Software/Tools: While not explicitly stated, proficiency with design visualization tools, mood board creation software, or even basic CAD/rendering programs could be beneficial. Bassett likely provides its own internal design tools.

• Communication Platforms: For virtual appointments and live chats (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or integrated chat software).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales reporting tools to track individual performance against goals.

• Potential use of showroom traffic and sales analytics to understand customer behavior. CRM & Automation:

• The company's CRM will be central to managing the sales pipeline and customer interactions.

• Automation might be used for follow-up communications or lead nurturing.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't listed, the role requires comfort with digital tools for remote client interaction and sales management. Experience with any customer-facing CRM and sales tracking software will be a strong asset.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer-Centricity: A strong focus on understanding and exceeding customer expectations through personalized design and service.

• Sales Excellence: A drive to achieve and surpass sales targets, with a recognition that income is tied to performance.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to create a positive showroom atmosphere and support team sales efforts.

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

• Continuous Improvement: A commitment to learning, developing skills, and staying updated on trends and product knowledge.

Collaboration Style:

• Team members are expected to be supportive of one another, sharing insights and contributing to a positive team dynamic.

• Collaboration with management is key for sales strategy, training, and performance improvement.

• The role requires balancing individual sales efforts with a willingness to assist colleagues and contribute to the overall success of the showroom.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett's emphasis on "people who shape the customers' experience" and their "passion for design" suggests a culture that values both interpersonal skills and creative flair. The "positive outlook" and "friendly outgoing personality" are key cultural indicators for this client-facing role.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income: The primary challenge is the reliance on commission, which requires consistent sales performance and can lead to income fluctuation. Candidates must be comfortable with this structure.

• Market Competition: The furniture retail market is competitive, requiring the ability to differentiate Bassett's offerings and value proposition.

• Client Management: Effectively managing diverse client expectations, tastes, and budgets, and handling potential design disagreements or sales objections.

• Balancing Sales & Design: Successfully integrating design consultation expertise with direct sales responsibilities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Certified Interior Design Training: Bassett offers its own certification program, providing a structured path to deepen design expertise.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Continuous learning about new collections, materials, and customization options.

• Sales Skill Enhancement: Training on consultative selling, closing techniques, and building client loyalty.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The "challenges" in this role are directly tied to the performance-driven nature of commissioned sales and the nuances of client-facing design advisory. The growth opportunities are clearly defined, offering a path for both sales mastery and potential leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you used your design skills to overcome a customer's objection or hesitation." (Focus on problem-solving, client understanding, and sales closure.)

• "How do you stay updated on interior design trends, and how would you apply them to Bassett's product line?" (Demonstrate market awareness and brand alignment.)

• "Walk me through your process for conducting an interior design consultation, from initial contact to closing the sale." (Highlight your consultative selling methodology and client engagement.)

• "How do you build and maintain long-term relationships with clients in a retail environment?" (Focus on customer service, follow-up, and clienteling strategies.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Bassett Furniture specifically, and what do you know about our brand and products?" (Show research and genuine interest.)

• "How do you handle working in a commissioned sales environment, and what are your strategies for consistent performance?" (Assess resilience and sales drive.)

• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you contribute to a positive workplace culture." (Gauge collaboration and fit.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each portfolio piece as a narrative: the client's challenge, your design solution, and the successful outcome (sales and satisfaction).

• Visual Aids: Use high-quality images of your work. Be prepared to discuss specific design choices, materials, and how they met client needs.

• Quantifiable Results: If possible, share metrics related to sales, client retention, or project scope.

• Bassett Alignment: Connect your experience and style to Bassett's brand identity and product offerings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will likely assess a candidate's blend of design passion, sales drive, and ability to connect with customers. Candidates should be prepared to showcase both their creative eye and their business acumen.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Dayforce link (jobs.dayforcehcm.com/en-US/bassett/CANDIDATEPORTAL/jobs/2080).

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your sales achievements, customer relationship management experience, and any interior design or visual merchandising skills. Use keywords from the job description such as "interior design," "sales goals," "relationship selling," and "customer consultations."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your best design projects, focusing on those that demonstrate your ability to meet client needs, coordinate colors/textures, and drive sales. Include case studies that highlight your process and results.

• Research Bassett Furniture: Familiarize yourself with their product lines, design aesthetic, history, and current marketing initiatives. Understand what makes their brand unique.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common sales and design interview questions, focusing on STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions, and be ready to articulate your passion for design and sales strategy.

⚠️ 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.

---