DESIGN CONSULTANT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: Bassett Furniture

Location: Lawrenceville, New Jersey, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Retail Sales / Interior Design

Date Posted: August 11, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue growth by leveraging interior design expertise and consultative sales techniques within a retail showroom environment.

• Cultivate and maintain strong, long-term customer relationships through personalized design consultations and exceptional service.

• Translate client needs, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences into compelling furniture and design solutions, enhancing the customer experience.

• Proactively engage with customers, conduct virtual appointments, and perform in-home design makeovers to maximize selling opportunities and client satisfaction.

• Contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment, upholding Bassett Furniture's brand standards and commitment to quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and required skills heavily lean towards a sales-focused role with a strong emphasis on interior design principles. The compensation structure (commission-based) and the emphasis on exceeding sales goals further solidify this as a sales-centric position. The role requires a blend of creative design skills and robust sales acumen.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth interior design consultations with clients, understanding their unique tastes, lifestyle requirements, and budget constraints to recommend suitable furniture and décor.

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

• Develop and present comprehensive design solutions, including space planning, color palette selection, and furniture arrangement, to meet client objectives.

• Proactively engage with walk-in customers, respond to inquiries via virtual appointments and live chat, and follow up on leads to drive sales opportunities.

• Maintain a deep understanding of Bassett Furniture's product lines, including construction, materials, customization options, and current design trends.

• Execute in-home design "makeovers," providing on-site consultations and space planning to offer personalized recommendations and close sales.

• Achieve and exceed individual sales goals and contribute to overall showroom performance through effective sales strategies and clienteling.

• Collaborate with showroom team members and management to ensure a seamless customer experience and maintain showroom visual merchandising standards.

• Continuously enhance design knowledge and sales skills through company-provided training programs, online courses, and industry engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a proactive, client-facing sales approach. The inclusion of "makeovers" and "virtual appointments" suggests a modern, multi-channel sales strategy. The focus on "relationship selling" and building "long-term customer relationships" points to a need for strong interpersonal skills and a consultative sales approach rather than transactional selling.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a background in Interior Design, Merchandising, or a related creative field is highly beneficial. A strong understanding of design principles, color theory, and space planning is essential.

Experience: A proven track record of success in sales, particularly in a commissioned environment, is required. Experience in retail sales, furniture sales, or interior design is highly preferred. The implied experience level is 2-5 years.

Required Skills:

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

• Exceptional consultative selling skills with a focus on understanding customer needs.

• Strong interpersonal and communication abilities, enabling effective client engagement and relationship building.

• Demonstrated ability to meet and exceed sales targets in a competitive environment.

• Proficiency in basic computer applications for client management and order processing.

• A friendly, outgoing, and positive personality conducive to building customer rapport.

• Self-motivation and a proactive approach to clienteling and sales outreach.

• Ability to listen attentively and translate customer desires into tangible design solutions.

• Polished and professional demeanor suitable for a premium retail environment.

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, as required by retail operations.

• Ability to travel to customer residences or businesses for in-home consultations and makeovers. Preferred Skills:

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

• Formal training or certification in Interior Design.

• Knowledge of furniture construction, materials, and customization options.

• Experience with CRM software for managing customer interactions and sales pipelines.

• Ability to effectively use design software or visualization tools to present concepts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications highlight a blend of creative talent and sales drive. The emphasis on "relationship selling," "self-motivated to clientele," and "proven track record of success in sales" indicates that candidates with demonstrated sales achievements will be highly valued. The "polished image" and "career-minded professionalism" suggest a need for candidates who present themselves well and are serious about a long-term career in sales and design.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 distinct interior design projects that demonstrate your ability to translate client needs into cohesive design solutions.

• Include examples of space planning, furniture selection, color palettes, and mood boards that illustrate your design process.

• Highlight projects where you successfully managed client expectations and delivered on their vision, ideally with quantifiable results (e.g., customer satisfaction, project completion).

• If available, include examples of client testimonials or case studies that speak to your consultative selling approach and ability to build strong customer relationships.

• Demonstrate proficiency in presenting design concepts clearly and persuasively. Process Documentation:

• While formal process documentation might not be required upfront, candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal sales process and design consultation methodology.

• Be ready to articulate how you approach client discovery, needs assessment, solution presentation, and closing the sale.

• Discuss your methods for managing client follow-ups, nurturing leads, and building a loyal client base.

• Explain how you utilize available tools and resources (e.g., showroom samples, design software, company training) to enhance your design and sales process.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a traditional "operations process portfolio" is less relevant. The emphasis shifts to a "design and sales portfolio" that showcases creative work and sales success. Candidates should focus on demonstrating their ability to manage the client journey from initial contact through to a successful sale, highlighting both design flair and sales effectiveness.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Annual Base Salary: $30,000 - $40,000 (This is an estimate based on typical base salaries for commissioned sales roles in retail and interior design, which often include a lower base to incentivize commission earnings).

• Commission Potential: 5% - 15% of gross sales (This is a typical range for furniture sales, varying by product, sale type, and individual performance).

• On-Target Earnings (OTE): $70,000 - $105,000 per year.

• Top Performers: Up to $135,000+ per year. Benefits:

• Paid Training: Comprehensive initial and ongoing training programs.

• Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Medical benefits package.

• Disability Insurance: Short-term and/or long-term disability coverage.

• Life Insurance: Basic life insurance policy.

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

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

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

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

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

• Opportunity for Growth and Advancement: Potential career progression within Bassett Furniture. Working Hours:

• Full-time position, typically 40 hours per week.

• Must be available to work weekends and holidays as required by retail schedules.

• Flexibility to accommodate customer appointments, including potential evening or weekend consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary information provided in the raw data ($70,000-$105,000 average, up to $135,000 for top writers) is presented as "potential income" and is commission-based. A conservative estimate for a base salary component has been added, reflecting common retail sales structures. The benefits are comprehensive and align with typical offerings for full-time employees in the retail sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail / Home Furnishings. Bassett Furniture operates in a competitive market, focusing on providing quality, customizable furniture with a strong emphasis on customer experience and design.

Company Size: Over 1,000 employees (based on company description and typical retail operations). This indicates a well-established company with structured processes and opportunities for career development.

Founded: 1902. Bassett Furniture boasts a long heritage, emphasizing its stability, craftsmanship, and evolution in the furniture industry. This history suggests a culture that values tradition while embracing innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Design Consultant will likely be part of a showroom sales team, reporting to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager.

• The team is comprised of other Design Consultants, potentially a Showroom Coordinator, and delivery/logistics support.

• Collaboration is key, with team members supporting each other to achieve store-wide sales goals and ensure a positive customer experience. Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes building long-term customer relationships through personalized service and design consultations.

• Sales-Driven Environment: Success is measured by sales performance, with a commission-based compensation structure driving motivation.

• Continuous Learning & Development: Bassett invests in its employees through comprehensive training programs covering product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills.

• Innovation & Quality: The company balances its historical craftsmanship with a focus on innovative furniture retailing and stylish, quality products.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history (since 1902) suggests a culture that values stability and craftsmanship. However, their stated focus on "innovating furniture retailing in the next 100 years" indicates a forward-thinking approach. For a Design Consultant, this means a role that blends traditional design principles with modern sales and customer engagement techniques.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an entry to mid-level position within a retail sales and design framework. It's a critical front-line role focused on direct customer interaction and revenue generation. The "Design Consultant" title signifies a step up from a general sales associate, requiring specialized design knowledge and consultative skills.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager. This manager is responsible for overseeing sales performance, providing coaching, and ensuring adherence to company policies and sales targets. Collaboration with fellow consultants is also a key aspect of the team dynamic.

Operations Impact: Design Consultants have a direct and significant impact on revenue generation for the showroom. Their ability to effectively consult, design, and sell furniture directly contributes to the company's financial success. They are also brand ambassadors, shaping customer perception and loyalty through their interactions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Consultant/Design Specialist: Advancement to roles with higher earning potential, potentially specializing in specific design areas or handling more complex client projects.

• Showroom Management: Progression into leadership roles such as Assistant Showroom Manager or Showroom Manager, involving team leadership, operational oversight, and sales strategy implementation.

• Sales Training & Development: Opportunities to become a trainer or mentor for new Design Consultants, sharing expertise in sales techniques and design principles.

• Corporate Roles: Potential to move into corporate roles within sales management, merchandising, or product development, leveraging experience gained at the retail level.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path is clearly defined within the retail sales and showroom management structure. The company's emphasis on training and career development suggests a commitment to internal advancement, making this a viable long-term career option for motivated individuals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The primary work environment is a retail showroom. This is a customer-facing, on-site role.

Office Location(s): Lawrenceville, New Jersey. The showroom is likely a modern, well-appointed space designed to showcase Bassett Furniture's product lines and provide an inspiring environment for customers.

Workspace Context:

• Showroom Floor: The majority of the time will be spent on the showroom floor, interacting with customers, demonstrating products, and discussing design options.

• Design Consultation Area: Dedicated spaces within the showroom may be available for more in-depth client consultations, often equipped with samples, design books, and potentially digital tools.

• Customer Homes: A significant aspect of the role involves traveling to customers' residences or businesses for in-home consultations and design "makeovers." This requires a reliable vehicle and willingness to travel within a defined geographic area.

• Virtual Workspace: The role also involves conducting virtual appointments and live chats, requiring a professional setup for remote client interactions.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, typically 40 hours per week.

• Requires flexibility to work weekends and holidays, as these are peak shopping times in retail.

• The schedule may involve varied shifts to ensure showroom coverage throughout operating hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-centric. While based in a showroom, the role extends beyond its physical walls to include in-home consultations, requiring adaptability and comfort in various settings. The blend of showroom, client home, and virtual interactions reflects a modern retail sales approach.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a phone or video call with an HR representative or hiring manager to assess basic qualifications, interest in design and sales, and cultural fit.

• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview at the showroom, potentially including:

  • Sales Skills Assessment: Questions designed to gauge your sales approach, closing techniques, and experience with commission-based roles.
  • Design Aptitude Discussion: Questions about your design philosophy, understanding of trends, and how you approach client consultations.
  • Scenario-Based Questions: Presenting hypothetical customer scenarios to assess problem-solving and consultative skills.
  • Showroom Tour & Product Familiarization: An opportunity to see the showroom and demonstrate your engagement with the products.

• Portfolio Presentation: You may be asked to present a selection of your design work and discuss specific projects, highlighting your process and results.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a regional manager or senior leadership, focusing on career aspirations and long-term fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in interior design and client consultation.

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the client's initial needs, your design process, the challenges you faced, and the successful outcome. Emphasize how you translated their lifestyle and preferences into the final design.

• Highlight Sales Impact: If possible, quantify the success of your designs in terms of customer satisfaction, project scope, or repeat business. For a sales role, demonstrating how your design expertise led to sales is crucial.

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

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

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Challenge: You might be given a hypothetical client brief and asked to create a mood board or select key furniture pieces within a set timeframe.

• Sales Scenario: Be prepared to role-play a sales interaction, demonstrating how you would engage a customer, identify their needs, and present solutions.

• Product Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with Bassett Furniture's product lines, customization options, and core design aesthetics. Be ready to discuss specific pieces or collections.

• Customer Service Excellence: Prepare to discuss how you handle difficult customers or challenging design requests.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess both creative design aptitude and robust sales capabilities. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not only their eye for design but also their ability to close sales and build lasting client relationships. A strong portfolio that showcases both aspects will be critical.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Bassett Furniture likely uses a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system for managing customer data, tracking sales leads, scheduling appointments, and monitoring sales performance. Proficiency in CRM software is essential.

• Design Software/Visualization Tools: While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with interior design software (e.g., SketchUp, AutoCAD, Chief Architect) or visualization tools that can help present design concepts to clients may be beneficial.

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions and managing orders within the showroom.

• Communication Platforms: For internal team communication and external client interactions (e.g., email, messaging apps, video conferencing tools).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: Consultants will likely access dashboards to track their individual sales metrics, commission earnings, and progress towards goals.

• Customer Data Analytics: Understanding basic customer segmentation and buying behavior insights provided by the CRM.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Data Management: Maintaining accurate and up-to-date customer profiles.

• Lead Management: Tracking and nurturing sales leads from various sources.

• Appointment Scheduling: Utilizing system features for booking and managing client consultations and in-home visits.

• Email Marketing/Communication Tools: Potentially used for follow-ups and customer outreach.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software names aren't provided, candidates should highlight experience with CRM systems and any design visualization tools. The core requirement is the ability to leverage technology to manage client relationships, process sales, and enhance the design consultation experience.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Passion for Design: A genuine enthusiasm for interior design, home furnishings, and creating beautiful spaces is paramount.

• Customer Centricity: A commitment to understanding and exceeding customer expectations, building trust, and fostering long-term relationships.

• Sales Excellence: A driven mindset focused on achieving and surpassing sales goals through consultative selling and proactive client engagement.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: 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 career-minded approach in all interactions.

• Continuous Improvement: A desire to learn, adapt, and enhance skills in design, sales, and customer service.

Collaboration Style:

• Supportive Sales Environment: Team members are encouraged to collaborate and assist each other, recognizing that the success of the showroom is a collective effort.

• Knowledge Sharing: Consultants are expected to share insights on design trends, successful sales strategies, and product knowledge.

• Cross-Functional Interaction: While primarily customer-facing, collaboration with showroom management, and potentially delivery or installation teams, is important for seamless customer service.

• Feedback Culture: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve individual and team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to value a blend of creativity, sales drive, and customer focus. For a Design Consultant, success hinges on their ability to embody these values in daily interactions, from client consultations to team collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income Volatility: Income can fluctuate based on sales performance, requiring strong sales discipline and consistent client engagement.

• Balancing Design Creativity with Sales Objectives: Effectively merging personal design aesthetic with client needs and the company's product offerings while driving sales.

• Managing Diverse Client Needs: Catering to a wide range of customer tastes, budgets, and personalities, requiring adaptability and strong interpersonal skills.

• In-Home Consultations: Navigating different home environments, assessing space constraints, and overcoming potential on-site challenges during makeovers.

• Staying Ahead of Design Trends: Continuously learning and adapting to evolving interior design styles and customer preferences.

• Competition: Operating in a competitive retail market requires differentiation through exceptional service and design expertise.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Bassett Interior Design Certification: Formal training program to enhance design skills and product knowledge, leading to potential certification.

• Sales Training Programs: Ongoing development in consultative selling, relationship building, and closing techniques.

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

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

• Career Path Advancement: Clear opportunities for promotion to Senior Consultant, Showroom Management, or other roles within Bassett Furniture.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for commission-based retail sales roles with a design component. The company's investment in training and development provides a strong framework for overcoming these challenges and fostering career growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your design process from initial client contact to final design presentation. How do you ensure you understand and meet their needs?" (Focus on consultative selling and client discovery.)

• "Tell me about a time you successfully exceeded a sales target. What strategies did you employ?" (Highlight sales drive, proactive clienteling, and results.)

• "How do you handle a client who has a very specific or challenging design request that might not align with current trends or our product offerings?" (Assess problem-solving, creativity, and ability to guide clients.)

• "Imagine a customer walks into the showroom with no idea what they want. How would you engage them and begin the design consultation process?" (Demonstrate initiative, rapport-building, and needs assessment.)

• "What are your favorite current interior design trends, and how do you stay updated on them?" (Show passion for design and industry awareness.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Bassett Furniture specifically, and what do you know about our brand?" (Research the company's history, values, and product lines.)

• "How do you view the relationship between design consultation and sales in a retail environment like Bassett?" (Emphasize how design expertise drives sales and customer loyalty.)

• "Describe your ideal work environment and team dynamic. How do you contribute to a positive team culture?" (Align your response with Bassett's emphasis on collaboration and customer service.)

• "How do you handle working weekends and holidays as part of a retail schedule?" (Confirm your flexibility and commitment to retail hours.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with an overview of your design philosophy. Then, walk through 2-3 key projects, detailing the client's challenge, your creative solution, the process, and the outcome.

• Quantify Success: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your designs and sales efforts (e.g., customer satisfaction, sales figures, project scope).

• Connect Design to Sales: Clearly articulate how your design expertise directly contributed to successful sales and client relationships.

• Engage the Interviewer: Make it a conversation. Ask clarifying questions and be prepared to discuss your choices and rationale in detail.

• Showcase Versatility: If presenting diverse projects, highlight your ability to adapt your style and approach to different client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong balance of creative design talent and proven sales acumen. Candidates need to articulate how their design skills directly translate into revenue generation and exceptional customer experiences.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

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

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a digital portfolio showcasing 3-5 of your most impactful interior design projects. Ensure each project highlights your client consultation process, design solutions, and any quantifiable sales or customer satisfaction results.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize relevant sales achievements, interior design experience, customer relationship management skills, and any specific software proficiencies mentioned. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your design philosophy, sales approach, and how you handle client interactions. Practice articulating your portfolio projects and demonstrating your understanding of consultative selling and home furnishings.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Bassett Furniture's brand, product lines, history, and current design aesthetics. Understand their commitment to quality, customization, and customer experience. Prepare questions that demonstrate your engagement and interest.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Bassett Furniture before making application decisions.