DESIGN CONSULTANT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: Bassett Furniture

Location: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Sales & Design Operations

Date Posted: August 27, 2026

Experience 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 client needs, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences.

• Leverage comprehensive product knowledge and design trend expertise to create, present, and sell customized furniture and design solutions.

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

• Utilize a blend of in-person, virtual appointment, and live chat channels to engage with a diverse client base and expand market reach.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Design Consultant," is fundamentally a sales-driven position within the retail sector, with a strong emphasis on consultative selling and clienteling. The "operations" aspect lies in managing the sales process, customer relationships, and showroom performance to achieve revenue targets.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth interior design consultations, actively listening to customers to understand their tastes, lifestyle, and budget constraints.

• Develop and present compelling product and design solutions, effectively translating customer needs into actionable design choices and sales proposals.

• Proactively build and nurture a loyal client base through personalized outreach, follow-up, and exceptional customer service.

• Achieve or exceed individual sales goals and contribute to overall showroom revenue targets through effective sales techniques and client engagement.

• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of furniture construction, design trends, color theory, and texture coordination to provide expert advice.

• Manage showroom presentation and product displays to create an appealing and inspiring environment for customers.

• Collaborate with design and sales teams to share best practices, insights, and support overall team performance.

• Utilize company CRM and sales tools to track customer interactions, manage pipelines, and forecast sales performance.

• Participate in ongoing training programs to enhance product knowledge, design skills, and sales methodologies.

• Drive sales through in-home and in-business design makeovers, as well as virtual appointments and live chat interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a proactive, client-focused sales approach. Success will be measured by sales performance, customer retention, and the ability to effectively leverage design expertise in a retail sales context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While a formal degree in Interior Design is not explicitly required, a strong foundation in design principles and a demonstrable passion for interior design are essential.

Experience: Proven track record of success in sales, preferably within a retail or client-facing environment, with 2-5 years of experience.

Required Skills:

• Passion for interior design and a keen eye for color and texture coordination.

• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and active listening skills.

• Highly driven and motivated to meet or exceed sales goals in a commissioned environment.

• Friendly, outgoing personality with a positive outlook and a strong desire to build customer relationships.

• Self-motivated with a proactive approach to clienteling and lead generation.

• Computer proficiency for utilizing sales tools, CRM, and virtual communication platforms.

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

• Polished image and professional demeanor suitable for a high-end retail environment.

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

• Ability to travel to customers' residences and businesses for on-site design consultations and makeovers. Preferred Skills:

• Prior experience in furniture sales or interior design.

• Familiarity with design software or visualization tools.

• Experience conducting virtual appointments and live chats.

• Understanding of furniture construction and materials.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative sales team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis is on a blend of innate design talent, strong sales acumen, and excellent interpersonal skills. While formal education is not a strict requirement, practical experience and a demonstrable passion for design are critical.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse interior design projects that demonstrate a range of styles, color palettes, and furniture applications.

• Include before-and-after visuals for at least two projects to highlight transformative design impact and problem-solving capabilities.

• Present case studies that clearly articulate the customer's needs, the design challenges, the proposed solutions, and the ultimate outcome (e.g., client satisfaction, sales conversion).

• Detail the process of client engagement, from initial consultation to final sale, highlighting how customer preferences were incorporated.

• Demonstrate an understanding of space planning, furniture selection, and material coordination within the presented projects. Process Documentation:

• Outline the typical customer engagement workflow, from initial showroom visit or virtual inquiry to post-sale follow-up.

• Describe methods used to identify customer needs, including active listening techniques and needs-assessment questioning.

• Explain how design solutions are developed, presented, and tailored to individual client requirements and budgets.

• Detail the process of utilizing showroom resources, design tools, and product knowledge to support client consultations.

• Illustrate how customer relationships are maintained and nurtured for repeat business and referrals.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "operations" portfolio isn't explicitly requested, candidates are expected to present a portfolio that visually and narratively demonstrates their design process, client management skills, and sales effectiveness. This is crucial for showcasing their ability to drive revenue through design expertise.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

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

Benefits:

• Paid training program to develop 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 to support continuous learning 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.

• Potential for growth and advancement within the company.

Working Hours: This role requires flexibility to work weekends and holidays, typical for a retail sales environment. The standard expectation is likely a full-time schedule, estimated at 40 hours per week, with specific hours determined by showroom operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is heavily commission-based, rewarding high performance and sales volume. The provided salary range is an estimate based on the information given and industry benchmarks for similar sales roles in Oklahoma City. The benefits package is comprehensive, supporting employee well-being and professional growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture & Home Furnishings Retail. Bassett Furniture operates in a competitive market that values product quality, customization, customer service, and brand heritage.

Company Size: Bassett Furniture Industries has been a recognized brand for over a century (since 1902), indicating a well-established company with a significant market presence. While exact employee numbers for the Oklahoma City location aren't specified, the company as a whole is likely of medium to large size within the retail sector.

Founded: 1902. This long history signifies stability, experience in furniture craftsmanship, and a deep understanding of market evolution.

Team Structure:

• The operations will likely involve a showroom team consisting of other Design Consultants, a Showroom Manager, and potentially support staff for operations and logistics.

• Reporting structure will typically be to a Showroom Manager who oversees sales performance, customer experience, and team coordination.

• Cross-functional collaboration will occur with other sales associates, design specialists, and potentially with corporate teams for marketing and operational support. Methodology:

• Data analysis will be focused on sales metrics, customer demographics, and product performance to inform sales strategies and inventory management.

• Workflow planning will revolve around managing customer appointments, showroom traffic, and sales pipeline progression.

• Automation is likely integrated through CRM systems for customer tracking and communication, and potentially for online sales channels.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett Furniture's long heritage suggests a culture that values both tradition and innovation. The company emphasizes quality, customization, and customer relationships, which translates into a sales-focused environment where design expertise is a key differentiator.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an entry to mid-level position within the sales and design operations of a retail environment. It requires a blend of sales execution, customer relationship management, and design consultation.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager, who provides guidance, sets performance expectations, and oversees daily operations.

Operations Impact: The Design Consultant directly impacts revenue generation through sales and customer acquisition. Their ability to translate design needs into sales and build lasting relationships contributes significantly to customer lifetime value and the overall profitability of the showroom and company.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Develop expertise in consultative selling, clienteling, CRM management, and advanced design principles through company-provided training and hands-on experience.

• Leadership Potential: With proven sales success and leadership qualities, opportunities may exist to advance into Showroom Management, Regional Sales Management, or specialized design roles within Bassett Furniture.

• Specialization: Potential to become a subject matter expert in specific product lines, design styles, or client segments, leading to increased earning potential and influence.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett Furniture explicitly mentions "Opportunity for growth and advancement" and provides "continuing opportunities to learn throughout your career." This suggests a structured approach to career development for successful sales professionals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a retail showroom environment. The workspace includes a customer-facing showroom with product displays, design consultation areas, and potentially private offices for management.

Office Location(s): Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The specific showroom location will provide a professional setting designed to showcase furniture and inspire customers.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is designed to be customer-centric, encouraging interaction and inspiration. Collaboration with fellow sales consultants and management is expected.

• Access to a wide range of furniture samples, fabric swatches, design tools, and computer systems for sales and design support.

• Opportunities for direct customer interaction, both in the showroom and potentially through home visits or virtual consultations.

Work Schedule: The role requires flexibility to work weekends and holidays, typical of retail operations. A standard full-time schedule is expected, with specific hours coordinated to ensure showroom coverage and customer availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-focused, requiring adaptability and a strong customer service orientation. The emphasis on a "State-of-the Art Showroom" suggests a modern and well-equipped retail space.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications and alignment with the role's requirements.

• First Interview: Typically with a Hiring Manager or Showroom Manager, focusing on sales experience, design passion, communication skills, and cultural fit. Expect behavioral questions.

• Portfolio Presentation/Case Study: You may be asked to present a portfolio of past design work or a hypothetical design challenge to demonstrate your design process, problem-solving abilities, and sales approach.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with higher-level management or a panel to discuss career aspirations and long-term fit within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase your strongest, most relevant projects that highlight your design aesthetic, problem-solving skills, and ability to work within client constraints.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the client's needs, your design process, the challenges you overcame, and the positive outcomes achieved. Quantify results where possible (e.g., increased client satisfaction, successful sale conversion).

• Highlight Process: Detail your approach to client consultation, space planning, material selection, and final presentation. Show how you translate customer input into tangible design solutions.

• Visual Appeal: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate, whether digital or physical. High-quality images are crucial.

• Tailor to Bassett: If possible, subtly align your portfolio's style or project types with Bassett's brand aesthetic and customer base.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Scenarios: Be prepared for role-playing scenarios that simulate customer interactions, objection handling, and closing techniques.

• Design Problem-Solving: Practice thinking through design challenges for various room types and client needs, focusing on practical solutions that align with budget and style.

• Product Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with Bassett Furniture's product lines, customization options, and typical price points to demonstrate informed decision-making.

• Company Research: Understand Bassett's history, brand values, and market position to articulate why you are a good fit for their team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process will likely focus heavily on assessing sales aptitude, design sensibility, and the ability to connect with customers. A well-prepared portfolio is essential for demonstrating these capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: For managing customer relationships, tracking leads, scheduling appointments, and monitoring sales pipeline progress. (Specific CRM not mentioned, but essential for clienteling).

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing sales transactions and managing showroom inventory.

• Design Software/Tools: Potentially internal Bassett design visualization tools, CAD software, or general design applications for creating mood boards, floor plans, and 3D renderings.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Reporting Tools: To track individual and showroom performance against sales goals, analyze product sales trends, and identify areas for improvement.

• Customer Data Analysis: Utilizing CRM data to understand customer behavior, preferences, and sales cycles.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Essential for maintaining client data, communication logs, and follow-up reminders.

• Sales Automation: Features within the CRM may be used for automated follow-up emails or task management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with CRM systems and general computer skills is a requirement. While specific design software isn't named, familiarity with design visualization tools will be advantageous. The emphasis is on using technology to enhance sales and customer engagement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and meeting customer needs, fostering loyalty through exceptional service and personalized design solutions.

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

• Sales Excellence: A drive to achieve and exceed sales goals through effective consultative selling, clienteling, and relationship building.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A willingness to support colleagues, share knowledge, and contribute to the overall success of the showroom team.

• Professionalism & Integrity: Maintaining a polished image, ethical conduct, and a commitment to continuous learning and self-improvement.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with fellow Design Consultants and Showroom Management to share insights on customer trends, product performance, and sales strategies.

• Process Improvement: Openness to feedback and suggestions for optimizing sales processes, showroom layout, and customer engagement methods.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in training sessions and sharing best practices for design consultation, clienteling, and sales techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett Furniture's long history and focus on customer relationships suggest a culture that values experience, dedication, and a collaborative approach to achieving business objectives. The emphasis on "relationship selling" points to a culture that prioritizes building genuine connections with clients.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income: The primary challenge is the reliance on commission, which requires consistent high performance and adaptability to fluctuating sales cycles. Preparation involves developing robust sales strategies and effective clienteling.

• Competitive Market: The furniture retail industry is competitive; staying ahead requires continuous learning about design trends, product innovation, and effective sales techniques.

• Client Needs Variability: Each client has unique tastes, budgets, and lifestyles, requiring adaptability and strong problem-solving skills to tailor solutions effectively.

• Balancing Design and Sales: Effectively merging creative design passion with the pragmatic demands of sales targets and showroom operations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Interior Design Certification: Bassett offers training to help associates achieve Interior Design certification, a significant professional development opportunity.

• Sales Skill Enhancement: Continuous training in consultative selling, negotiation, and customer relationship management.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Ongoing education on new furniture lines, materials, and customization options.

• Leadership Training: Potential pathways for those interested in management roles, focusing on team leadership, operational efficiency, and strategic sales planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers significant growth potential, especially for individuals who excel in sales and possess a strong design aptitude. The company's investment in training and certification underscores its commitment to employee development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to understanding a new client's design needs and preferences." (Focus on active listening, questioning techniques, and rapport building.)

• "How do you handle a situation where a client's budget doesn't align with their desired design choices?" (Prepare to discuss compromise, alternative solutions, and value-based selling.)

• "Walk me through a successful design project you managed from consultation to completion. What were the key challenges and how did you overcome them?" (Use the STAR method to detail a relevant portfolio piece, emphasizing your process and results.)

• "How do you stay current with interior design trends and incorporate them into your client recommendations?" (Discuss resources like design magazines, blogs, trade shows, and how you synthesize information.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in Bassett Furniture specifically, and what do you admire about our brand?" (Research Bassett's history, values, and product offerings.)

• "How do you see yourself contributing to our showroom's sales goals and team environment?" (Align your skills and motivation with the role's requirements and team dynamics.)

• "Describe your experience working in a commissioned sales environment. How do you stay motivated?" (Highlight your drive, resilience, and proactive strategies for success.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Narrative: For each project, provide a brief overview of the client's situation, your role, and the solution.

• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality images to showcase your design work. Highlight key features and transformations.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, mention how your design choices met client objectives or led to a successful sale.

• Process Clarity: Clearly explain your design process, from initial concept to final execution.

• Engagement: Be prepared to discuss your portfolio items in detail and answer questions about your design decisions and client interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will likely assess both your sales acumen and your design sensibility. Be ready to demonstrate how you can translate creative vision into tangible sales results for Bassett Furniture.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Portfolio Customization: Select 3-5 of your strongest design projects that best showcase your skills in interior design, color coordination, and client consultation. Ensure you have high-quality visuals and clear descriptions of the client's needs, your solutions, and the outcomes.

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

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process and sales approach using the STAR method for behavioral questions. Prepare to discuss how you would handle common sales scenarios and design challenges.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Bassett Furniture's brand, history, product lines, and current market position. Understand their commitment to quality, customization, and customer experience to demonstrate genuine interest and alignment with their values.

⚠️ 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.