DESIGN CONSULTANT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: Bassett Furniture

Location: Orlando, Florida, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Retail Sales / Interior Design

Date Posted: September 16, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue growth through expert interior design consultations and personalized sales strategies within a retail showroom environment.

• Cultivate and maintain long-term customer relationships by understanding individual needs, lifestyle, and investment preferences.

• Leverage comprehensive product knowledge, including furniture construction and current design trends, to create compelling and tailored design solutions.

• Execute a "relationship selling" approach, utilizing interior design makeovers and virtual consultations to maximize sales opportunities and customer satisfaction.

• Contribute to a high-performing sales team by consistently meeting or exceeding sales goals in a commissioned environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Design Consultant," is fundamentally a sales position within the retail furniture industry, emphasizing consultative selling and interior design expertise. The core function is to drive sales by providing design services, making it a hybrid role with strong revenue-generating objectives.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth interior design consultations with clients, translating their aesthetic preferences, lifestyle needs, and budget into actionable design plans.

• Develop and present customized furniture and design solutions, effectively showcasing product features, benefits, and customization options.

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

• Utilize the company's complimentary design service as a strategic tool for client engagement, relationship development, and increased sales.

• Perform virtual appointments and live chats to engage with a broader client base and accommodate diverse customer preferences for consultation methods.

• Maintain an in-depth understanding of furniture construction, material quality, design trends, and color/texture coordination to provide expert advice.

• Collaborate with team members and management to achieve showroom sales targets and contribute to a positive, results-oriented work environment.

• Maintain a polished and professional image, reflecting the brand's commitment to quality and sophisticated design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on clienteling and consultative sales, which are critical for success in a commission-based retail environment. The ability to adapt to various consultation methods (in-person, virtual, live chat) is a key operational requirement.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a background or strong interest in Interior Design, Merchandising, or a related creative field is highly beneficial. Continuous learning through company-provided training is a core expectation.

Experience: A proven track record of success in sales, preferably within a retail or design-oriented environment, is required. Experience in building and managing a client base is essential.

Required Skills:

• Passion for interior design and home furnishings.

• Exceptional sales acumen and a strong drive to achieve and exceed sales targets.

• Proficiency in discerning and coordinating colors, textures, and materials to create aesthetically pleasing designs.

• Excellent verbal and written communication, active listening, and interpersonal skills.

• Friendly, outgoing, and positive personality conducive to building rapport with clients.

• Self-motivated and proactive in client outreach and relationship management.

• Basic computer proficiency for client management, order processing, and virtual consultations.

• Ability to translate customer wants and needs into effective design choices.

• A polished and professional image suitable for a high-end retail environment.

• Career-minded professionalism and a commitment to continuous learning. Preferred Skills:

• Prior experience in furniture sales or interior design consulting.

• Familiarity with design software or visualization tools.

• Experience in a commissioned sales environment with demonstrated success.

• Knowledge of current interior design trends and furniture construction.

• Ability to conduct home makeovers and provide on-site design consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills heavily lean into sales performance and interpersonal abilities, underscored by a genuine passion for design. While formal education isn't a strict requirement, practical experience and a demonstrable aptitude for sales and design are paramount.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of successful client consultations and design projects, highlighting before-and-after scenarios or concept-to-completion narratives.

• Include visual representations of design palettes, mood boards, or space plans that demonstrate an understanding of color theory, texture, and spatial arrangement.

• Present case studies detailing how specific client needs were met through tailored furniture selections and design recommendations, emphasizing problem-solving.

• Document examples of client relationship-building strategies and how they led to repeat business or referrals. Process Documentation:

• Detail the process of client engagement, from initial contact and needs assessment to design presentation and sales closure.

• Illustrate how product knowledge and design trends are integrated into the sales consultation process to enhance customer experience and drive sales.

• Outline methods for managing client follow-up, order tracking, and post-sale support to ensure customer satisfaction and loyalty.

• Describe any experience or understanding of using CRM systems or sales tracking tools to manage client interactions and sales pipelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" in the traditional sense might not be explicitly requested for this retail sales role, candidates should be prepared to discuss their past successes and approach to design and sales. Demonstrating a structured approach to client management and design presentation, even verbally or through specific examples, will be crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The company indicates an average potential income for experienced Design Consultants of $70,000-$105,000 per year, with top performers earning up to $135,000 annually. This is based on a generous commission-based compensation plan with additional 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 further education and professional development.

• 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 environment.

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

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation is heavily commission-driven, underscoring the sales performance aspect of the role. The provided salary range is a strong indicator of the earning potential for successful candidates. The benefits package is comprehensive, typical for full-time retail positions in a company of Bassett's size.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail & Manufacturing. Bassett Furniture has a long-standing heritage in the furniture industry, known for quality custom furniture and a blend of style, comfort, and value. The company is focused on innovation in furniture retailing.

Company Size: Bassett Furniture Industries is a well-established company with a significant presence, suggesting a structured yet dynamic retail environment. This size typically allows for robust training programs and defined career paths.

Founded: Since 1902, providing over a century of experience and brand recognition in the furniture market. This long history implies a stable company culture with a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and customer trust.

Team Structure:

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

• Team members likely collaborate closely on client support, showroom presentation, and achieving collective sales goals.

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

• Cross-functional collaboration may involve store operations, logistics, and potentially design support teams at a higher level. Methodology:

• Emphasis on "relationship selling" and consultative approaches to understand and fulfill customer design needs.

• Utilization of a complimentary design service to enhance customer engagement and drive sales.

• A structured training program covering product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills, with ongoing learning opportunities.

• Focus on building a base of loyal clients through personalized service and follow-up.

Company Website: [Bassett Furniture Website URL - Placeholder as not provided in input]

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett Furniture's long history and focus on custom furniture suggest a culture that values quality, craftsmanship, and customer relationships. The "innovation" aspect indicates a forward-thinking approach within a traditional industry. The team structure in a retail showroom is typically collaborative and performance-driven.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level sales and design professional. It requires a blend of sales proficiency and design sensibility, with a focus on clienteling and revenue generation. The level suggests an expectation of independent client management and contribution to sales targets.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager who oversees the sales team's performance, provides coaching, and manages showroom operations.

Operations Impact: As a direct revenue-generating role, Design Consultants have a significant impact on the company's financial performance. Their ability to close sales, build client loyalty, and represent the brand effectively directly influences store profitability and market share.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Specialization: Progress to Senior Design Consultant roles, managing key accounts, or specializing in specific product lines.

• Leadership Development: Potential to advance into Showroom Management, Sales Management, or District Management positions, overseeing teams and operations.

• Design Expertise: Opportunities to deepen design skills through specialized training, potentially leading to roles in visual merchandising or product development support.

• Brand Ambassador: Become a lead trainer or mentor for new design consultants, sharing expertise and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth within this role is primarily focused on sales performance and management. The company's mention of "opportunity for growth and advancement" suggests clear pathways for ambitious individuals, likely tied to achieving sales milestones and demonstrating leadership potential.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a retail showroom environment, featuring a professionally designed space showcasing Bassett Furniture's product lines. The environment is client-facing and aims to be inspiring and comfortable for customers.

Office Location(s): Orlando, Florida. Specific showroom address details would be provided upon application or interview. The location is on-site, requiring regular presence in the showroom.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is a high-end furniture showroom where consultants interact directly with clients.

• Access to product samples, design resources, and potentially design software or visualization tools.

• A collaborative atmosphere with fellow sales consultants and showroom management, fostering a team-oriented sales culture.

• The environment is dynamic, with varying customer traffic and the need for constant engagement.

Work Schedule: The role requires flexibility to work weekends and holidays, which are peak times for retail sales. While specific daily hours are not detailed, a full-time commitment is expected, aligning with typical retail operating hours and peak customer engagement periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is inherently customer-centric and sales-driven. Success requires comfort and proficiency in a public-facing retail setting, with an emphasis on creating a positive and inspiring customer experience within the showroom.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application and resume to assess sales experience, design passion, and alignment with basic qualifications.

• First Interview: Likely with a Showroom Manager or HR representative, focusing on sales skills, customer service philosophy, design aptitude, and motivation for the role. Behavioral questions related to sales scenarios and client interactions are probable.

• Design/Sales Challenge: Candidates may be asked to present a design concept for a given scenario, or to demonstrate their sales approach through a role-playing exercise. This assesses their practical application of skills.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a higher-level manager or showroom lead, focusing on career aspirations, cultural fit, and long-term potential.

• Offer: Based on overall assessment of skills, experience, and cultural fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Sales Success: If you have a formal portfolio, ensure it emphasizes how your design work directly led to sales or customer satisfaction. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "increased sales by X%" or "secured Y repeat clients").

• Visual Presentation: Prepare to discuss visual examples of your design work (even if sketches or digital mockups) that showcase your understanding of color, texture, layout, and style.

• Clienteling Strategy: Be ready to articulate your approach to building and maintaining client relationships, demonstrating your ability to foster loyalty and drive repeat business.

• Problem-Solving: Showcase instances where you solved client design challenges or met unique needs, highlighting your adaptability and consultative approach.

• Company Alignment: Research Bassett's design aesthetic and brand values to tailor your portfolio presentation to their specific style and market.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Role-Play: Practice common sales scenarios, focusing on active listening, identifying needs, presenting solutions, handling objections, and closing techniques.

• Design Scenario: Be prepared to create a brief design concept for a specific room or client type, focusing on practicality, aesthetics, and product integration.

• Product Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with Bassett's product offerings and typical design styles to demonstrate your understanding of their catalog.

• Commissioned Sales Mindset: Understand and articulate your motivation and strategy for succeeding in a commission-based environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely heavily favor candidates who can demonstrate both strong sales acumen and a genuine passion for interior design. The "portfolio" aspect should be viewed as an opportunity to showcase tangible results and a strategic approach to client engagement and sales.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Likely a company-specific or industry-standard CRM (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or a custom retail management system) for managing customer interactions, sales pipelines, and client history.

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing inventory, and handling customer orders.

• Design Software/Tools: Potentially access to internal design visualization software, mood board creation tools, or even 3D rendering software to help clients visualize their spaces.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: To track individual and team sales metrics, conversion rates, and average transaction values.

• Client Data Analysis: Utilizing CRM data to understand customer demographics, purchasing patterns, and preferences.

CRM & Automation:

• Client Relationship Management: Core function of the CRM to track leads, manage customer interactions, and nurture relationships.

• Order Management Systems: For processing, tracking, and managing customer orders from placement to delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, proficiency with CRM systems, POS software, and basic computer applications is expected. The ability to learn and effectively use company-specific design and sales tools will be crucial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

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

• Sales Excellence: A strong emphasis on achieving sales targets, driving revenue, and continuous improvement in sales techniques.

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

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively within a showroom team to support colleagues, share knowledge, and achieve collective goals.

• Professionalism & Integrity: Maintaining a high standard of conduct, appearance, and ethical practice in all client and team interactions.

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

Collaboration Style:

• Showroom Synergy: Design Consultants are expected to collaborate closely with fellow sales associates and management to create a cohesive and supportive sales environment.

• Client Hand-offs: Seamlessly transferring client relationships or providing support where needed to ensure client satisfaction.

• Knowledge Sharing: Proactively sharing insights on customer preferences, successful sales tactics, and design inspirations with the team.

• Feedback Integration: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to enhance individual and team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett's culture likely values a blend of individual sales drive and collaborative teamwork within the showroom setting. The emphasis on customer relationships and design passion suggests a culture that supports creative professionals while maintaining a strong business focus.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income: Adapting to and thriving in a compensation structure that is directly tied to sales performance, requiring consistent effort and skill.

• Market Competition: Differentiating Bassett's offerings and personalized service in a competitive furniture retail market.

• Client Expectations: Managing diverse client needs, tastes, and budgets, and translating them into successful design outcomes.

• Dynamic Retail Environment: Adapting to fluctuating customer traffic, evolving design trends, and the demands of a fast-paced showroom.

• Balancing Sales and Design: Effectively integrating the consultative design process with the direct sales objective.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Interior Design Certification: Bassett offers its own interior design certification training, providing a structured path to enhance design expertise.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Continuous learning about new collections, materials, and customization options to become a product expert.

• Sales Technique Enhancement: Training on advanced sales methodologies, consultative selling, and clienteling strategies.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced sales leaders and senior design consultants within the company.

• Career Progression: Clear pathways to advance into management or specialized roles within the retail or broader company structure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge is navigating the commission-based sales environment, which requires resilience and strong performance. Growth is strongly tied to developing both sales mastery and design expertise, with company-provided training supporting these development paths.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to understanding a client's design needs and translating them into a furniture selection." (Focus on active listening, probing questions, and creating a client profile.)

• "How do you handle objections or price concerns from a client who loves a product but hesitates on the cost?" (Demonstrate value-added selling, focusing on quality, longevity, and design benefits.)

• "Walk me through a successful client consultation you've led, from initial contact to closing the sale. What made it successful?" (Use the STAR method to detail a specific example, highlighting your process and results.)

• "How do you stay current with interior design trends, and how do you incorporate them into your client recommendations?" (Showcase your passion for design and how you balance trends with client individuality.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in Bassett Furniture specifically, and what do you know about our brand?" (Research Bassett's history, values, and design aesthetic; connect your passion to their offerings.)

• "What does 'relationship selling' mean to you, and how do you build long-term client relationships?" (Emphasize trust, personalized service, and follow-up.)

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment in a retail setting?" (Highlight collaboration, support for colleagues, and a shared commitment to goals.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Visuals: If presenting a formal portfolio, focus on high-impact visuals that tell a story quickly. Avoid overwhelming detail.

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, present data or metrics that demonstrate the success of your design and sales efforts.

• Process-Oriented Narrative: For each example, clearly articulate the problem, your solution (design/sales strategy), and the outcome (sales, client satisfaction).

• Authenticity: Speak genuinely about your passion for design and your client-centric approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing a blend of sales prowess, design sensibility, and a client-focused, relationship-building approach. Be ready to discuss specific examples that demonstrate these skills in action.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight sales achievements, interior design experience (even if informal), customer relationship management skills, and any experience in a commission-based environment. Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: Compile examples of design work, client success stories, or sales achievements that demonstrate your skills. Be ready to discuss these during an interview, focusing on how your contributions drove sales and client satisfaction.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to answer behavioral and situational questions related to sales, design, and customer service. Practice articulating your sales process and design philosophy.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Bassett Furniture's history, brand values, product lines, and current design aesthetic. Understand their competitive positioning and what makes them unique.

⚠️ 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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