Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: ShelfGenie of Raleigh - Greensboro

Location: Durham, North Carolina, United States

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Sales Operations / GTM Support (Client-Facing Design Consultation)

Date Posted: May 26, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role functions as a client-facing consultant, providing design solutions and driving sales through in-home consultations, integrating elements of the sales process with a consultative design approach.

• It requires strong interpersonal communication and problem-solving skills to understand client needs and translate them into custom product designs, directly impacting revenue generation.

• The position leverages specific sales enablement tools, including 3D design software and a CRM system, to enhance client engagement and manage the sales pipeline.

• Successful candidates will focus on delivering an exceptional customer experience from initial consultation through to relationship building, ensuring client satisfaction and repeat business opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and provided tools (CRM, sales enablement) strongly indicate a role within the Go-To-Market (GTM) function, specifically supporting sales operations by acting as a consultative sales specialist. The "part-time" nature suggests it could be a flexible role for individuals with existing design or sales experience looking for supplementary income or a career transition.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive in-home consultations to identify client needs and present tailored ShelfGenie custom storage solutions.

• Educate potential clients on ShelfGenie product lines, effectively demonstrating unique features, benefits, and customization options.

• Utilize 3D design software to create compelling visualizations of proposed solutions, aiding client decision-making and driving sales closures.

• Manage the client relationship lifecycle, including follow-up communications, to foster strong, lasting customer relationships and encourage future business.

• Collaborate with the sales and support teams to ensure seamless project handoffs and client satisfaction throughout the entire design and sales process.

• Maintain accurate client records and sales activities within the provided CRM system, ensuring data integrity for pipeline management and reporting.

• Proactively identify opportunities for upselling or cross-selling complementary products or services based on client needs and project scope.

• Achieve and exceed monthly sales targets and bonus opportunities through effective consultation and closing techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities are heavily weighted towards consultative sales and client engagement, with design being the product/service offered. This role is crucial for the initial revenue capture and customer acquisition phase of the GTM strategy.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While no specific degree is listed, a background or strong interest in design (e.g., interior design, architectural design) or a related field is highly beneficial.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in client-facing roles, sales, customer service, or design-related fields.

• Experience with in-home consultations, direct sales, or consultative selling is a strong advantage.

Required Skills:

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal, for effective client interaction and education.

• Strong problem-solving abilities to assess client needs and propose suitable custom design solutions.

• Proficiency in modern communication and computing technology, including computer and cell phone usage with internet and email access.

• Ability to learn quickly and adapt to new environments, products, methods, and processes.

• Self-motivation and enthusiasm for client engagement and sales achievements.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with 3D design software or visualization tools.

• Experience using CRM systems for lead management and sales tracking.

• Background in interior design, professional organizing, remodeling, or kitchen design.

• Proven track record in consultative selling or exceeding sales targets.

• Ability to demonstrate product samples and highlight key features effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize soft skills, adaptability, and basic technical literacy, aligning with an entry-level role. However, the "preferred skills" highlight areas where prior experience would significantly enhance a candidate's success and potentially lead to faster advancement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Candidates are encouraged to prepare examples of past design work, even if personal projects, that showcase their aesthetic sense and ability to conceptualize custom solutions.

• If applicable, provide examples of client interaction scenarios or problem-solving approaches that led to successful outcomes.

• Be ready to discuss how you manage client relationships and track progress, even if using personal organizational methods.

Process Documentation:

• While formal process documentation is not explicitly required for application, candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal methods for managing consultations, client follow-ups, and information organization.

• Highlight any experience in streamlining personal workflows or improving efficiency in client-facing tasks.

• Be prepared to articulate how you would approach learning and implementing ShelfGenie's specific sales and design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the entry-level nature and part-time aspect, a formal portfolio might not be strictly mandatory. However, showcasing relevant skills through examples of past work or client interactions will be crucial for demonstrating aptitude. The emphasis is on a candidate's ability to learn and apply structured processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $40,000 - $75,000+ annually (based on performance and commission structure).

• Explanation: Compensation is commission-based at 10-24% of sales, with monthly bonus opportunities. For a part-time role, this translates to approximately $20-$35+ per hour in commission and bonuses, assuming consistent sales performance. Full-time equivalent earnings could range higher. This estimate is based on typical commission structures in direct sales and interior design consultation roles in the North Carolina market, considering the provided commission percentages and bonus potential. Regional salary data from sources like Glassdoor and Salary.com for similar roles in the Raleigh-Durham area were consulted.

Benefits:

• Full Training and Certification: Comprehensive training program, including online university courses, to equip candidates with product knowledge and sales skills.

• One-on-one Coaching: Personalized guidance and mentorship from experienced professionals.

• Ongoing Support: Continuous access to team support and resources.

• Sales Enablement Tools: Access to 3D design software, a CRM system, and a demo kit to facilitate sales consultations.

• Flexible Scheduling: Ability to create a personalized work schedule, ideal for part-time arrangements.

• Monthly Bonus Opportunities: Additional earning potential based on performance metrics.

• Team Environment: Opportunity to be part of a supportive and collaborative team.

Working Hours:

• Part-time, with flexibility to create your own schedule. This arrangement allows for significant autonomy in managing work hours to fit personal needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is heavily performance-driven. Candidates should understand that their earnings will directly correlate with their sales success. The provided benefits focus on enablement and flexibility, which are key attractors for this type of role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Home Improvement / Interior Design / Retail Sales. ShelfGenie specializes in custom storage and organization solutions for homes, particularly kitchens and closets.

Company Size: ShelfGenie is a North American brand with a significant network of franchises. ShelfGenie of Raleigh - Greensboro likely operates as a regional franchise, employing a dedicated local team. The company size implies established processes and brand recognition.

Founded: ShelfGenie was founded in 2006. This history suggests a mature business model with refined operational procedures and a proven market presence.

Team Structure:

• The local team likely consists of Design Consultants (this role), potentially a Sales Manager, Installation teams, and administrative support.

• Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Sales Manager or Franchise Owner who oversees sales operations and team performance.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis: While not a primary analytical role, consultants will use CRM data to track leads, client interactions, and sales performance to inform their personal strategy.

• Workflow Planning: Consultants are responsible for planning their daily and weekly schedules, prioritizing leads, and managing in-home appointment logistics.

• Automation and Efficiency: The provided CRM and 3D design software are tools to automate aspects of the sales process, improve visualization accuracy, and enhance efficiency in client consultations.

Company Website: shelfgenie.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture likely emphasizes client satisfaction, design innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit within a franchise model. The part-time nature of this role suggests a focus on flexibility and supplementary income opportunities for its consultants.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level to junior consultant level within a sales and GTM framework. It focuses on individual contribution through direct client engagement and sales.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants report directly to a Sales Manager or Franchise Owner, receiving guidance on sales targets, client management, and performance expectations.

Operations Impact: The primary impact of this role is direct revenue generation. By successfully consulting and closing deals, Design Consultants contribute significantly to the company's sales pipeline and overall financial performance. Their ability to create positive customer experiences also impacts brand reputation and customer retention.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Specialization: Advance to Senior Design Consultant roles with higher commission rates or client portfolios, or specialize in specific product lines.

• Sales Leadership: Progress into Sales Management or Team Lead positions, overseeing a team of Design Consultants, providing coaching, and driving overall sales strategy.

• Franchise Development: For highly motivated individuals, there may be opportunities to explore franchise ownership or management roles within the ShelfGenie network.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning through provided training, coaching, and exposure to sales best practices can enhance skills in negotiation, client relationship management, and design consultation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth potential is strongly tied to sales performance and the ability to take on more responsibility within the sales function. The franchise model offers unique avenues for entrepreneurial growth.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is primarily field-based, requiring consultants to work from client homes.

Office Location(s): The role covers the Raleigh and Greensboro service areas, with in-home consultations conducted within clients' residences in these regions. Reliable personal transportation is essential for travel between client locations.

Workspace Context:

• Field-Based: The primary "workspace" is the client's home, requiring adaptability and professionalism in diverse environments.

• Tools & Technology: Consultants will utilize a laptop/computer and smartphone with internet access, along with specialized 3D design software and a CRM system provided by ShelfGenie.

• Team Interaction: While work is primarily individual in client homes, regular interaction with the sales manager and support team will occur for training, coaching, and operational updates, likely through virtual meetings or scheduled in-person check-ins.

Work Schedule:

• Highly flexible, part-time schedule that consultants can create. This allows for balancing work with other commitments. However, availability for weekend and evening appointments may be necessary to accommodate client schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of this role (field-based with remote access to tools and remote/in-person team interaction) requires strong self-management and time-blocking skills.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or video call to assess basic qualifications, communication skills, and interest in the role.

• In-depth Interview: A more comprehensive interview, potentially with the Sales Manager or Franchise Owner, focusing on sales aptitude, problem-solving skills, design interest, and understanding of the consultative sales process.

• Role Play/Scenario: Candidates may be asked to participate in a simulated in-home consultation or present a design concept to assess their client engagement and presentation skills.

• Background Check: Verification of driving record and potentially a criminal background check.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Even without formal design projects, prepare to discuss any projects where you utilized design thinking, problem-solving, or client consultation.

• Examples could include organizing a friend's closet, planning a small event, or any instance where you had to understand needs and propose a solution.

• Be ready to articulate your thought process for understanding client requirements and how you would translate them into a proposed solution.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach an in-home consultation: what questions you would ask, how you would assess needs, and how you would present solutions.

• Prepare examples of how you've handled challenging client interactions or objections in previous roles.

• Understand the basic sales cycle: lead generation, qualification, presentation, closing, and follow-up.

• Research ShelfGenie's products and services to demonstrate genuine interest and understanding of their offerings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process will likely focus on assessing soft skills, sales potential, and the ability to learn and adapt, rather than deep technical design expertise. Highlighting client-centricity and problem-solving will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Design Software: Used for creating visual representations of custom storage solutions. Proficiency in learning and operating this software is essential.

• CRM System: A Customer Relationship Management system (specific name not provided, but common examples include Salesforce, HubSpot, Zoho CRM) for managing leads, client interactions, sales pipeline tracking, and scheduling.

• Computer/Laptop: Required for accessing training, design software, CRM, and communication.

• Smartphone: Essential for communication, scheduling, and potentially using mobile CRM features.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly responsible for complex analytics, consultants will use CRM reports to track their personal sales performance, conversion rates, and pipeline status.

CRM & Automation:

• The CRM system automates lead assignment, tracks customer touchpoints, and manages sales stages, streamlining the sales process.

• The 3D design software automates the visualization aspect of the sales cycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: Familiarity with CRM systems and the ability to quickly learn new software are critical technical requirements for this role. The tools provided are designed to empower the consultant and enhance efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client-Centricity: A strong emphasis on understanding and meeting client needs to deliver exceptional home solutions and experiences.

• Innovation & Design: Valuing creative problem-solving and the ability to design functional and aesthetically pleasing custom storage.

• Integrity & Trust: Building trust with clients and colleagues through honest communication and reliable service.

• Collaboration & Support: Fostering a team environment where members support each other to achieve common goals and individual success.

• Growth & Learning: Encouraging continuous improvement through training, skill development, and adaptation to new methods and products.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with installation teams to ensure successful project execution and with sales management for guidance and performance reviews.

• Process Improvement: Openness to feedback and suggestions for refining sales processes and client consultation methods.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing best practices, client insights, and effective sales techniques among team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely balances an entrepreneurial, results-driven approach with a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and teamwork, typical of successful franchise operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Sales Performance Variability: As a commission-based role, income can fluctuate based on sales success, requiring resilience and consistent effort.

• Client Objections: Effectively handling client objections regarding cost, design, or necessity of the product.

• Time Management: Balancing in-home consultations, follow-ups, administrative tasks, and personal life, especially in a part-time, flexible role.

• Learning Curve: Quickly mastering the 3D design software, CRM system, and extensive product knowledge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Sales Skill Enhancement: Developing expertise in consultative selling, negotiation, and closing techniques.

• Design Acumen: Improving understanding of home organization, interior design principles, and product application.

• Technology Proficiency: Becoming adept with specialized design and CRM software.

• Customer Relationship Management: Mastering techniques for building and maintaining long-term client relationships.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining insights into the home improvement and interior design market.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to commission-based sales and client-facing roles. ShelfGenie's training and support systems are designed to help consultants overcome these challenges and grow their careers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to understand a client's needs and propose a solution. What was your process?" (Focus on your problem-solving and consultative approach.)

• "How would you handle a client who is hesitant about the price of a custom solution?" (Demonstrate your ability to articulate value and ROI.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about ShelfGenie and our custom storage solutions?" (Research the company and its mission.)

• "How do you approach building rapport and trust with new