DESIGN CONSULTANT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: Bassett Furniture

Location: Lawrenceville, New Jersey, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Retail Sales & Design Operations

Date Posted: May 18, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive consultative sales by leveraging interior design expertise to create personalized customer experiences and achieve revenue targets.

• Cultivate and manage a loyal client base through exceptional relationship selling and post-sale engagement, focusing on long-term customer value.

• Master comprehensive product knowledge, including furniture construction and current design trends, to effectively advise clients and present solutions.

• Execute end-to-end design consultations, from initial needs assessment to final product presentation and sales closing, ensuring client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role of "Design Consultant" at Bassett Furniture is positioned within a retail sales and design operations context. While not a traditional Revenue Operations or Sales Operations role, it requires a strong understanding of sales processes, client management, and operational efficiency within a retail environment. The emphasis on "relationship selling," building a client base, and maximizing sales opportunities aligns with operational goals of driving revenue and customer retention.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth interior design consultations with clients, actively listening to understand their needs, lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and budget constraints.

• Develop and present tailored design solutions, including furniture selections, color palettes, and texture coordination, to meet client requirements and inspire purchasing decisions.

• Manage the entire sales cycle from initial customer engagement through to post-sale follow-up, ensuring a seamless and positive customer journey.

• Utilize a combination of in-store consultations, virtual appointments, and live chats to engage with a diverse clientele and expand reach.

• Drive personal sales performance by consistently meeting or exceeding established sales goals and contributing to overall store revenue objectives.

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

• Proactively build and nurture a personal client base, fostering repeat business and generating referrals through exceptional service and relationship management.

• Collaborate with team members to support store-wide sales initiatives and maintain a positive, team-oriented work environment.

• Drive to customers' residences and businesses for in-home or on-site makeovers, providing personalized design services.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities emphasize a blend of sales execution, client relationship management, and design application. The emphasis on driving to client locations and conducting virtual appointments highlights the need for operational flexibility and multi-channel service delivery. The responsibility of "Creating, presenting, and selling product and design solutions" directly ties into the sales operations function of translating customer needs into actionable sales opportunities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong foundation in interior design principles, color theory, and spatial planning is essential, often gained through formal education, certifications, or extensive practical experience.

Experience: A proven track record of success in sales, particularly in commissioned sales environments, is a key requirement. Candidates with 2-5 years of experience in retail sales, interior design, or a related client-facing role will be well-positioned.

Required Skills:

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

• Exceptional sales acumen with a demonstrated ability to meet or exceed sales targets in a commissioned environment.

• Strong customer relationship management (CRM) and clienteling skills, with a focus on building long-term rapport.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, enabling effective listening and persuasive presentation.

• Outstanding interpersonal skills, fostering a friendly, outgoing, and approachable demeanor.

• High level of self-motivation and initiative to proactively seek and engage potential clients.

• Proficiency in computer applications, including CRM systems, design software (basic understanding), and communication platforms.

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

• Professionalism in appearance and conduct, reflecting positively on the Bassett brand.

• Adaptability to thrive in a dynamic retail environment with varying paces and customer traffic.

Preferred Skills:

• Formal training or certification in interior design.

• Experience with virtual consultation tools and live chat platforms.

• Familiarity with furniture construction and materials knowledge.

• Ability to create and present compelling product and design solutions.

• Experience working within a luxury or premium retail environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of creative design skills and robust sales capabilities. The requirement for computer proficiency and virtual appointment skills indicates an operational need for adaptability to modern sales channels. The "proven track record of success in sales" and "career-minded professionalism" suggest an expectation for candidates who can operate with a degree of autonomy and business acumen, aligning with operational goals of performance and reliability.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing successful design projects, demonstrating a range of styles, color palettes, and client solutions.

• Visual evidence of a clienteling approach, illustrating how relationships were built and maintained to drive repeat business and referrals.

• Case studies highlighting how specific customer needs were translated into effective design choices and successful sales outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Documentation of a structured approach to client consultations, from initial discovery to needs assessment and solution presentation.

• Examples of how sales targets were integrated into the design process, demonstrating an understanding of revenue-driving activities.

• Evidence of process for managing customer inquiries, follow-ups, and post-sale engagement to ensure customer satisfaction and loyalty.

• Showcase of any personal system or workflow developed to manage client interactions, project timelines, and sales pipeline effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a "Design Consultant" role, especially one focused on "relationship selling" and "making over" customer spaces, implicitly requires a portfolio to demonstrate design acumen and sales success. The ability to "Create, present, and sell product and design solutions" necessitates a structured approach that can be articulated and potentially documented, aligning with operational requirements for process standardization and outcome measurement.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The potential income for experienced Bassett Design Consultants averages $70,000-$105,000 per year, with top performers earning up to $135,000 per year. 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 Insurance.

• Life Insurance.

• 401(k) plan for retirement savings.

• Tuition assistance for continued 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.

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

Working Hours: This is a full-time position requiring a willingness to work weekends and holidays, typical for a retail sales environment. The specific hours will align with showroom operating hours and may vary based on business needs and customer appointment schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided explicitly and is performance-driven, reflecting a commission-based model common in retail sales operations. The benefits package is comprehensive and includes elements that support professional development (paid training, tuition assistance) and employee well-being, which are crucial for retaining talent in client-facing roles. The working hours requirement is specific to retail operations and direct customer engagement.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture and Home Furnishings Retail. Bassett Furniture has been a recognized brand for over a century, known for quality custom furniture, blending style, comfort, and value. The company focuses on innovating furniture retailing.

Company Size: Bassett Furniture Industries is a publicly traded company, suggesting a larger organizational structure with established processes and departments. The company size implies a robust infrastructure for training, HR, and operational support.

Founded: Since 1902. This long history signifies a stable company with deep roots in craftsmanship and customer trust, while also emphasizing a forward-looking approach to innovation.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within a retail showroom environment, likely part of a sales team led by a showroom manager or sales director.

• Collaboration is expected with other design consultants, sales associates, and potentially showroom support staff.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: While not a data analyst role, success relies on interpreting customer needs and sales data to identify opportunities and refine sales strategies. Understanding sales performance metrics is crucial.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Efficiently managing client schedules, design consultations, and sales processes is key to maximizing productivity and customer satisfaction. This involves personal workflow optimization.

• Automation & Efficiency: Utilizing provided technology for virtual appointments, CRM, and communication tools to streamline interactions and expand service reach.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is described as one that values heritage, quality, innovation, and customer experience. The emphasis on "people who shape the customers’ experience" highlights the importance of client-facing roles. The operational implication is that the company invests in its associates through training and support to ensure a consistent brand experience.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level individual contributor within the sales and design function. It requires a blend of creative talent and sales execution, with a focus on building a personal book of business and contributing directly to revenue generation. It is a client-facing role with significant autonomy in managing client relationships and design projects.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Showroom Manager or Sales Director, who oversees sales performance, team management, and operational standards within the showroom.

Operations Impact: The primary impact of this role on operations is direct revenue generation through consultative sales. By successfully translating customer needs into sales and fostering repeat business, Design Consultants contribute to customer lifetime value, sales pipeline health, and overall business profitability. Their ability to manage client relationships effectively also impacts customer satisfaction and brand reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Develop expertise in consultative selling, advanced design principles, and client relationship management. Opportunity to become an "Interior Design Certified" professional through Bassett's training.

• Leadership Potential: Progression to roles such as Senior Design Consultant, Showroom Manager, or Sales Director. Opportunities to mentor new associates and lead sales initiatives.

• Specialization: Potentially specialize in specific design areas or client segments (e.g., contract sales, high-end residential) based on performance and interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path emphasizes growth within sales and management roles, with a strong focus on developing specialized design and sales skills. The company's commitment to training and certification indicates a structured approach to talent development, which is a key aspect of operational strategy for employee retention and performance improvement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The primary work environment is a retail showroom, described as "State-of-the-Art." This implies a modern, well-appointed space designed to showcase furniture and provide an inspiring customer experience.

Office Location(s): Lawrenceville, New Jersey. The role requires the ability to travel to customers' residences and businesses for makeovers, indicating a service area extending beyond the showroom itself.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative and visually stimulating showroom environment where design ideas are showcased and clients are engaged.

• Access to a wide range of furniture products, design resources, and potentially design software or tools to aid in consultations.

• Opportunities for interaction with colleagues to share insights, collaborate on design challenges, and support team sales goals.

• The environment is customer-centric, requiring a professional and welcoming demeanor at all times.

Work Schedule: This role requires flexibility, including a willingness to work weekends and holidays, which are peak shopping times in retail. While specific hours are not detailed, they will align with showroom operating schedules and the need to accommodate customer appointments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is a blend of in-showroom client engagement and off-site customer visits. The "State-of-the-Art Showroom" suggests an investment in the physical workspace, which can impact operational efficiency and customer experience. The flexibility required in scheduling is a common operational consideration in retail.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves an application review focusing on sales experience and design passion.

• First Interview: May be conducted by a showroom manager or HR representative to assess basic qualifications, communication skills, and cultural fit. Expect questions about sales experience, design approach, and customer service philosophy.

• Design/Sales Challenge: Candidates may be asked to present a design concept, walk through a past project, or demonstrate their sales approach using a hypothetical scenario. This is where portfolio presentation is key.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with higher-level management to discuss career aspirations and confirm alignment with the company's long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Design Versatility: Include projects that demonstrate your ability to work with different styles, color palettes, and client needs. Highlight custom solutions.

• Emphasize Client Engagement: Detail your process for understanding client needs, building rapport, and managing expectations. Use case studies to illustrate successful relationship building.

• Quantify Results: Where possible, include metrics related to sales achieved, customer satisfaction, or repeat business generated from specific projects.

• Demonstrate Process: Clearly outline your step-by-step approach to design consultations, from initial contact to final delivery and follow-up.

• Tailor to Bassett: If possible, show projects that align with Bassett's brand aesthetic or demonstrate an understanding of their product lines and custom capabilities.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Pitch Practice: Be ready to present a furniture piece or a room design concept as if you were pitching to a client. Focus on benefits, features, and addressing potential objections.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare for questions about how you would handle difficult clients, design dilemmas, or sales objections.

• Company Research: Understand Bassett's history, product offerings, and design philosophy. Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit for their brand.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for a role like this heavily emphasizes demonstrating practical skills through a portfolio and case studies. The interview process is designed to assess not only sales aptitude but also the candidate's ability to embody the brand's design-centric and customer-focused ethos.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: For managing customer relationships, tracking leads, sales pipeline, and client history. Proficiency in a CRM is essential for clienteling and sales management.

• Design Software/Tools: While not explicitly detailed, proficiency with basic design software, mood board creation tools, or even sophisticated CAD programs can be advantageous for presenting design concepts.

• Communication Platforms: Email, phone systems, and potentially specialized platforms for virtual appointments and live chats.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales performance dashboards and reports to track individual and showroom sales targets, conversion rates, and average transaction value.

CRM & Automation:

• Utilizing the company's CRM for lead management, customer segmentation, and personalized outreach.

• Employing virtual appointment and live chat tools to automate client engagement and expand service availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the specific tools are not listed, the job description implies the need for proficiency in CRM systems for sales and client management, as well as tools for virtual communication and potentially design visualization. A strong understanding of how to leverage these technologies operationally is key to success.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer-Centricity: A primary value is placing the customer's needs and vision at the forefront of every design and sales interaction.

• Excellence in Design: A commitment to providing high-quality, stylish, and functional design solutions that reflect current trends and customer preferences.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Maintaining a polished image, honest communication, and ethical business practices in all client and team interactions.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Contributing to a positive showroom environment by supporting colleagues, sharing knowledge, and working towards common sales goals.

• Continuous Improvement: A dedication to ongoing learning in design trends, product knowledge, and sales techniques to enhance personal performance and customer service.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with other sales associates and showroom staff to provide a cohesive customer experience. May involve collaborating on showroom display or client project support.

• Feedback Exchange: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback regarding sales approaches, design recommendations, and customer interactions to foster team growth.

• Knowledge Sharing: Sharing insights on design trends, successful sales strategies, and product knowledge with team members to elevate the collective expertise of the showroom.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values a blend of individual drive (sales targets, client building) and team cohesion (support, shared goals). The emphasis on professionalism and continuous learning is crucial for maintaining operational standards and adapting to market changes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income Volatility: Navigating the inherent fluctuations in income associated with a commission-based sales structure requires resilience and consistent performance.

• Balancing Design Creativity with Sales Objectives: Effectively integrating personal design flair with the need to meet sales targets and customer budget constraints.

• Client Management Complexity: Handling diverse client personalities, expectations, and potential design disagreements requires strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills.

• Adapting to Evolving Design Trends & Technology: Staying current with rapidly changing interior design trends and mastering new virtual sales technologies to remain competitive.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in consultative selling methodologies, advanced interior design principles, and customer lifecycle management.

• Industry Certification: Pursue and achieve Bassett's Interior Design Certification, enhancing professional credibility and skill set.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Opportunities to learn from experienced sales leaders and potentially mentor junior associates, paving the way for future leadership roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are common in high-performance sales environments and require proactive operational strategies for management and mitigation. The growth opportunities are framed around skill development and career progression within the sales and operations framework of the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "Describe your process for identifying a client's core needs and translating them into a compelling design solution. How do you balance their desires with practical considerations like budget and space?" (Focus on structured approach, needs assessment, solution presentation).

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How would you handle a situation where a client has a strong, but challenging, design preference that conflicts with current trends or practicality?" (Focus on active listening, negotiation, compromise, and maintaining client relationship).

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a client is unhappy with a furniture piece after delivery. What steps would you take to resolve this issue and ensure customer satisfaction?" (Focus on empathy, problem identification, solution proposal, and follow-through).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Operations Culture: "Why are you interested in working for Bassett Furniture specifically? What do you admire about our brand and our approach to furniture retail?" (Research company history, values, product lines, and competitive advantages).

• Operations Team Dynamics: "Describe your ideal team environment. How do you contribute to a positive and productive sales team in a retail setting?" (Highlight collaboration, support, and shared goal orientation).

• Operations Impact Measurement: "How do you measure your own success in a sales role? What key performance indicators (KPIs) do you focus on?" (Discuss sales volume, conversion rates, average transaction value, client retention, and customer satisfaction).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Case Study Structure: For each project, present the client's initial challenge, your proposed solution, the execution process, and the final outcome (including any quantifiable results like sales achieved or customer satisfaction).

• Metrics Presentation: Clearly articulate the sales metrics associated with your work. If direct sales figures are sensitive, focus on conversion rates, average sale value, or client retention rates.

• Interactive Demonstration: Be prepared to "walk through" a design concept using your portfolio, explaining your rationale for each choice and how it addresses the client's needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on articulating a structured, customer-centric, and results-oriented approach to design and sales. Demonstrating an understanding of the operational aspects of retail sales, such as process management, clienteling, and KPI tracking, will be advantageous.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

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

• Curate Your Operations Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your strongest design and sales projects. For each, clearly outline the client's initial challenge, your proposed design solution, the implementation process, and the final outcome. Quantify results where possible (e.g., sales generated, client satisfaction).

• Optimize Your Resume for Operations Keywords: Ensure your resume highlights experience in consultative selling, clienteling, CRM usage, relationship building, achieving sales targets, and any design-specific skills relevant to furniture retail. Use keywords such as "interior design consultation," "sales strategy," "customer relationship management," "commissioned sales," and "visual merchandising."

• Practice Your Presentation: Prepare to present your portfolio and discuss your sales approach. Be ready to articulate your process, explain your design philosophy, and answer questions about handling client needs and sales objectives. Practice explaining how you drive revenue through design.

• Research Bassett Furniture: Understand their brand heritage, product lines, design aesthetic, and commitment to innovation. Be prepared to explain why you are a good fit for their specific culture and operational model.

⚠️ 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.