Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: Haverty Furniture Companies, Inc

Location: Augusta, Georgia, US

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Retail / Sales / Interior Design

Date Posted: August 4, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue growth through expert interior design consultations and sales support within a dynamic retail environment.

• Develop and present compelling design solutions, including floor plans and 3D renderings, to enhance customer purchasing decisions.

• Collaborate closely with sales consultants to close transactions and increase average ticket values through specialized design expertise.

• Foster strong customer relationships by providing personalized in-home, in-store, and virtual design services.

• Maintain a deep understanding of furniture styles, product lines, and promotional offers to effectively advise customers.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and compensation structure (commission-based with guaranteed income) strongly indicate a sales-oriented role with a significant interior design component, rather than a pure design or operations role. The emphasis is on using design skills to drive sales.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-home, in-store, and virtual consultations to assess customer needs, style preferences, budget, and spatial requirements.

• Create detailed floor plans and photorealistic 3D renderings showcasing Haverty's furniture and accessories within the customer's space.

• Partner with Sales Consultants to provide design expertise, assist in closing sales, and increase average transaction values.

• Schedule and attend qualified customer home visits, presenting design proposals and coordinating product selections.

• Provide constructive feedback to Sales Consultants and Branch Managers on customer interactions, design presentations, and sales strategies.

• Assist Sales Consultants in generating special-order SKUs and sales reserves.

• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of current furniture styles, product offerings, special sales, financing options, delivery procedures, and warranties.

• Participate actively in sales training sessions on the sales floor to refine customer engagement processes and product knowledge.

• Achieve and maintain consistent sales levels and key performance metrics as directed by management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of design application and direct sales support, highlighting the consultative sales approach. The role requires proactive engagement with both customers and the sales team to drive revenue.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) in Interior Design or a related field; OR 2-4 years of directly related experience and/or training; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. ASID certification is preferred.

Experience: 2-4 years of experience in interior design, furniture sales, or a related client-facing consultative role.

Required Skills:

• Proficient in Interior Design principles and application.

• Experience with creating Floor Plans and 3D Renderings.

• Strong Sales and Customer Service skills with a consultative approach.

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

• Excellent Communication and Presentation Skills.

• Ability to build rapport and strong relationships with clients and sales teams.

• Knowledge of furniture styles and home décor trends.

• Ability to manage time effectively and prioritize tasks.

• Valid Driver's License with a clean driving record and reliable personal transportation.

• Minimum state-required car insurance verification. Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency with Room Planner software (e.g., SketchUp, AutoCAD, or similar).

• ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) certification.

• Experience in high-end furniture retail sales.

• Ability to upsell and increase average ticket prices.

• Experience with CRM systems for customer follow-up.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a valid driver's license and personal transportation for in-home visits is a critical, non-negotiable qualification for this role, emphasizing its field-based consultative nature. Proficiency in specific design software is preferred but not strictly required, suggesting that on-the-job training for proprietary tools may be available.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse interior design projects, demonstrating a range of styles and client needs.

• Include examples of floor plans and 3D renderings, highlighting spatial planning and visualization capabilities.

• Present case studies illustrating the consultative process from initial client contact to final design solution.

• Demonstrate how design recommendations directly contributed to increased sales or improved customer satisfaction.

• Highlight any experience with special orders, custom selections, or project management aspects. Process Documentation:

• Document the typical workflow for an in-home or in-store design consultation, from initial meeting to proposal presentation.

• Illustrate the process of translating client needs and spatial constraints into actionable design plans and renderings.

• Explain how feedback is gathered from clients and sales consultants to refine design proposals.

• Detail the steps involved in coordinating with sales teams to facilitate transaction closure.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a portfolio is crucial for a "Design Consultant" role, especially in a sales context. Candidates should prepare to present visual examples of their design work, process, and how their contributions have impacted sales outcomes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $55,000 - $100,000+ per year. The average national earning for an Interior Design Consultant at Haverty's in 2025 was $84,000. This range is based on an uncapped commission structure with a guaranteed income feature.

Benefits:

• Paid comprehensive training program.

• Daily Pay Program for drawing pay between cycles.

• 401K program with a 4% company match.

• Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Paid time-off, including vacation, sick time, and personal days.

• Company holidays.

• Substantial associate discount on merchandise.

• Bonus program for team member referrals.

• Educational financial assistance.

• Complimentary health and wellness program.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week. Retail hours include nights and weekends (Monday-Saturday 10 am – 7 pm, Sunday 12 pm – 6 pm). Flexibility is required to meet customer schedules for in-home visits.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is commission-based with a guaranteed income, indicating a performance-driven role. The average salary provided offers a realistic benchmark for candidates. The extensive benefits package, including daily pay and educational assistance, is a significant draw.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail / Home Furnishings. Haverty Furniture Companies, Inc. is a well-established retailer with over 140 years of heritage, known for quality, price, and customer service.

Company Size: Large (typically over 1,000 employees, based on industry norms for national retailers). This size implies structured processes, established training programs, and potential for career advancement.

Founded: Over 140 years ago. This long history suggests stability, a strong brand reputation, and deep industry experience.

Team Structure:

• The Design Consultant will likely work within a specific showroom or branch, reporting to a Branch Manager or Sales Manager.

• Collaboration is expected with Sales Consultants, other Design Consultants, and potentially showroom support staff.

• Cross-functional interaction will primarily be with the sales team to support their efforts and drive joint success. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making, particularly concerning sales performance and customer needs analysis.

• Emphasis on consultative selling and relationship building with customers.

• Focus on maintaining high standards of customer service and design excellence.

• Utilizing proprietary software for design, sales tracking, and customer relationship management.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Haverty's long-standing presence in the furniture industry suggests a culture that values tradition, quality, and customer loyalty. The role of a Design Consultant is integral to the sales process, reinforcing the company's commitment to providing a superior customer experience.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-to-mid-level position within the sales and design spectrum. It offers a direct path to increased earning potential through commission and a foundation for further career development in retail sales management or specialized design roles.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Branch Manager or Sales Manager, with direct collaboration and support for Sales Consultants.

Operations Impact: The Design Consultant's primary impact is on revenue generation through increased sales volume and higher average transaction values. They enhance the customer experience, contributing to brand loyalty and repeat business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Progression: Advance to Senior Design Consultant, Sales Manager, or Branch Manager roles.

• Skill Development: Deepen expertise in interior design, 3D rendering software, and consultative sales techniques through company training.

• Specialization: Focus on specific product lines or design aesthetics, becoming a subject matter expert within the organization.

• Leadership Potential: Opportunities to mentor new consultants and contribute to sales strategy development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is positioned as a strong stepping stone for individuals looking to build a career in retail sales and design. The guaranteed income, coupled with uncapped commission, provides a stable yet high-earning potential trajectory.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily a retail showroom environment. The workspace includes a beautifully appointed showroom floor and potentially a dedicated design consultation area or office space.

Office Location(s): Augusta, Georgia (30901). The role requires frequent travel to customer residences within a defined service area.

Workspace Context:

• A fast-paced, customer-focused retail setting.

• Exposure to a wide range of furniture and home décor products.

• Collaborative environment with sales colleagues.

• Access to design tools, software, and product samples.

• Opportunity for independent work during in-home consultations.

Work Schedule: Retail hours are mandatory, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Flexibility is essential to accommodate customer appointments outside of standard showroom hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic, blending showroom sales with client-facing in-home consultations. Candidates must be comfortable with a flexible schedule and enjoy interacting with customers in various settings.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application to assess qualifications and experience against job requirements.

• First Interview: Typically with a Hiring Manager (Branch Manager/Sales Manager) focusing on sales aptitude, customer service skills, and basic design understanding. May involve situational questions.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation of design portfolio to demonstrate skills in space planning, visualization, and client-focused solutions. This is a critical step.

• Second Interview/Final Round: May involve a more in-depth discussion, potentially with a Regional Manager, focusing on sales strategy, problem-solving, and cultural fit. May include role-playing scenarios.

• Offer: Extension of offer contingent on background checks and reference verification.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects. Focus on quality over quantity.

• Showcase Process: Clearly explain your design thinking, client consultation approach, and how you translated needs into solutions.

• Highlight Impact: Quantify results where possible (e.g., increased sales, client satisfaction feedback).

• Visual Appeal: Ensure renderings and floor plans are clear, professional, and visually engaging.

• Tailor to Haverty's: If possible, include projects that align with Haverty's product offerings and aesthetic.

• Practice Presentation: Be prepared to walk through each project concisely, highlighting key decisions and outcomes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would handle common sales objections or design challenges (e.g., difficult client tastes, budget constraints, space limitations).

• Prepare examples of how you've used design to influence purchasing decisions or increase sales in previous roles.

• Understand Haverty's product lines and target customer demographics to inform your responses.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is a pivotal part of the selection process. Candidates should invest time in preparing a compelling presentation that showcases both their design talent and their ability to drive sales.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Essential for general business communication, document creation, and basic data handling.

• Room Planner Software: Proficiency in a 3D rendering or space planning tool is highly beneficial. Haverty's may use proprietary software or industry-standard tools like SketchUp, AutoCAD, or similar for creating floor plans and renderings.

• CRM System: Likely used for customer relationship management, lead tracking, and follow-up (e.g., My Sales Center mentioned in the description).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales performance metrics will be tracked through the company's sales system.

• The ability to interpret sales data and customer feedback to inform design and sales strategies is key. CRM & Automation:

• Familiarity with CRM principles for managing customer interactions and sales pipelines is advantageous.

• The role involves direct customer engagement, where systematic follow-up is crucial for closing sales.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software names beyond "Room Planner" and "My Sales Center" are not provided, candidates with experience in common interior design visualization tools and CRM platforms will have a distinct advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Centricity: A strong focus on understanding and meeting customer needs to ensure satisfaction and loyalty.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Emphasis on offering high-quality furniture and design solutions.

• Integrity & Trust: Maintaining ethical business practices and building lasting customer relationships.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with sales colleagues to achieve shared goals.

• Drive for Results: A commitment to achieving sales targets and contributing to company growth.

Collaboration Style:

• Supportive Partnership: Design Consultants work in tandem with Sales Consultants, providing expertise to bolster sales efforts.

• Feedback Loop: Open communication and constructive feedback are encouraged between design and sales teams to optimize the customer experience and sales process.

• Knowledge Sharing: While focused on individual sales, there's an expectation of sharing insights on customer preferences and market trends within the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture likely values a blend of traditional retail service excellence with a modern, consultative sales approach, driven by a team that supports each other's success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design and Sales: Effectively integrating creative design services with direct sales targets and commission-driven compensation.

• Managing Client Expectations: Navigating diverse client tastes, budgets, and timelines while delivering satisfactory design solutions.

• In-Home Appointment Logistics: Managing personal transportation, scheduling flexibility, and ensuring safety and professionalism during client visits.

• Staying Current: Continuously updating knowledge of furniture trends, product lines, and design software.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Paid Training: Comprehensive onboarding covering product knowledge, sales techniques, and design software.

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

• Product Immersion: Hands-on experience with a wide range of furniture and décor allows for deep product expertise.

• Career Advancement: Clear pathways exist for moving into management or specialized sales roles within Haverty's.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents a unique opportunity to develop a dual skill set in design and sales, which is highly valuable in the retail sector. Overcoming the challenges requires strong organizational skills, adaptability, and a proactive approach to client engagement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you used your design skills to influence a customer's purchasing decision and increase their total sale." (Focus on your process, the client's needs, and the sales outcome.)

• "How would you handle a client who has very specific, perhaps challenging, design tastes that don't align with our product offerings?" (Demonstrate problem-solving, negotiation, and customer-centricity.)

• "Walk me through your process for conducting an in-home design consultation." (Highlight your structured approach, questioning techniques, and presentation style.)

• "How do you stay updated on interior design trends and new furniture products?" (Show your commitment to continuous learning.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Haverty's and why are you interested in working here?" (Research the company's history, values, and product lines.)

• "How do you see yourself fitting into a commission-based sales environment?" (Emphasize your drive, work ethic, and comfort with performance-based compensation.)

• "Describe your experience working collaboratively with a sales team." (Provide examples of how you've supported colleagues and contributed to team goals.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Storytelling: For each project, briefly introduce the client's goals, your design approach, the solution you provided, and the outcome.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, mention how your design contributed to increased sales, customer satisfaction, or efficient use of space.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your renderings and floor plans are easy to understand and clearly illustrate your design concepts.

• Engage Your Audience: Be prepared to answer questions about your design choices and your process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be assessing not only design aptitude but also sales acumen, customer service skills, and the ability to thrive in a performance-driven retail environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the Haverty's Careers portal.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest design projects, focusing on floor plans, 3D renderings, and case studies that demonstrate your consultative sales approach and ability to drive revenue.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant experience in interior design, retail sales, customer service, and any software proficiency (Microsoft Office, design tools). Quantify achievements where possible.

• Practice Your Pitch: Rehearse your portfolio presentation and be ready to articulate your design process, sales strategy, and understanding of Haverty's brand.

• Research Haverty's: Familiarize yourself with their product lines, design aesthetic, company history, and values to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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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